Federal and private student loans have different application processes.
Federal Student Loans
- Start the application process by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) at studentaid.gov.
- Review your Student Aid Report (SAR). It typically arrives about a week after you submit your FAFSA online.
- Compare your financial aid award letters and accept all or part of the federal loans offered.
- Complete entrance counseling and sign your Master Promissory Note.
- Receive your loan proceeds from your school once they have been applied to your student account.
Private Student Loans
- Submit your application and undergo a credit check.
- Add a cosigner to increase your chance for loan approval and a lower interest rate.
- Sign your Promissory Note and complete the Self-Certification Form.
- Accept the loan terms.
- Receive your loan proceeds from your school once they have been applied to your student account.
FAFSA is a registered service mark of the U.S. Department of Education and is not affiliated with Discover Student Loans.