Federal Loans are available to United States citizens and permanent residents only. In addition to a valid FAFSA students must be enrolled at least part time in a degree seeking program. Federal student loans can only be used for the completion of degree requirements. Federal loans must be repaid, even if the student does not graduate, or find employment.

Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan

The Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan is available to all students who have been denied or show reduced eligibility for the need-based Federal Subsidized Student Loan. The Unsubsidized Stafford loan also provides additional loan eligibility to independent students.

While repayment begins six months after graduation or cessation of at least half-time enrollment, the student can make interest payments or have the interest capitalized during in-school, grace or deferment periods. Students must file a Master Promissory Note (MPN) to receive these funds. You do not have to complete a separate MPN for Subsidized and Unsubsidized Stafford Loans. Your signature on the MPN will remain valid, so you will not need to complete a new MPN annually.

To complete an MPN:

1. Go to the Federal Student Aid website and click on the green "Sign In" button in the "Manage My Direct Loan" box.
2. To sign in, you will need to login with your FSA ID. This is the same ID you created to complete the FAFSA. Do not create a second FSA ID as the login is associated with your Social Security number.
3. Once you have signed in, there is a 'Complete MPN' link on the left-hand main menu.
4. As a borrower, you must also complete Direct Loan Entrance Counseling. This is an online counseling session that ensures that you understand your rights and obligations as a borrower. From your account, click on 'Complete Entrance Counseling' on the left-hand main menu.

Federal Direct Graduate Plus Loan

The Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan is a federal loan that is available to graduate students, and can be used to cover educational expenses. In order to apply for the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan, you will need to log in to your account and complete a Direct Graduate PLUS loan application. The application is where you specify the dollar amount that you are applying for. This application also initiates a credit check. Once you have logged in, click on the "Request PLUS Loan" link on the left-hand main menu. You will be notified in writing of the results of the credit check by the Direct Loan Servicer. If you are credit approved for the PLUS loan, please complete the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan Master Promissory Note (MPN). An MPN is a promise to repay document that must be signed before any loan funds can be disbursed. The Direct Graduate PLUS Loan MPN may be completed online by clicking on the "Complete MPN" link on the left-hand main menu and selecting "Graduate PLUS" loan type. Students may borrow a Graduate PLUS Loan up to the Cost of Attendance provided in your financial aid award letter less any other aid received, including Stafford Loans.

Entrance Counseling

Federal regulations require that all first-time Federal Direct Loan borrowers at Chatham University complete an Entrance Counseling Session. The purpose of this session is to inform all borrowers of their rights and responsibilities as a federal student loan borrower. This process, in addition to a completed Master Promissory Note (MPN), must be completed before your student loan can be credited to your account. Please complete this requirement promptly to avoid processing delays.

To complete your Entrance Counseling Session:

• Visit the Federal Student Aid website
• Click on the "Log In" button
• Sign in with the requested information
• Click on the "Complete Counseling" link
• Choose "Entrance Counseling" and follow the prompts

Please be sure that you also complete your Master Promissory Note (MPN):

• Visit the Federal Student Aid website
• Click on the "Log In" button
• Sign in with the requested information
• Click on the "Complete Master Promissory Note" link
• Complete your MPN for the loan type that you need (Subsidized/Unsubsidized or PLUS)
• Please note that if you are a parent completing this for a PLUS loan, you must sign in with your FSA user ID.

Exit Counseling

Federal regulations require that anyone who has borrowed a Federal Direct Loan at Chatham University complete an Exit Counseling Session. The purpose of this session is to inform all federal student loan borrowers of their loan repayment rights and responsibilities. This is required anytime that your enrollment is less than half-time, you graduate or withdraw from the University.

To complete your Exit Counseling Session:

• Visit the Federal Student Aid website
• Click on the "Log In" button
• Sign in with the requested information
• Click on the "Complete Counseling" link
• Choose "Exit Counseling" and follow the prompts

After exhausting the opportunities available from the federal aid programs, many students will consider private loan programs as a source of funding. As always, taking on debt for any reason should be done deliberately and only for the amounts needed. Additional information regarding the availability of federal student aid is available from the Department of Education publication, Federal Aid First.

The terms and conditions of these credit-based private loan programs vary, and as such, students are encouraged to review the details of the programs before selecting a private loan program. Private loans are not eligible for loan consolidation programs made available for federal student loans. Interest rates, fees (both at the time of borrowing and at repayment), credit checks, and annual and aggregate loan limits require careful evaluation by the student as a consumer.

As part of the application process, students will be required to complete the Private Education Loan Applicant Self-Certification Form available through their lender's website or by downloading the PDF form here. Information needed to complete this form, such as cost of attendance, may be obtained here, while estimated financial assistance may be obtained from the student’s Financial Aid Award Letter.

How to Choose a Private Lender

Getting Started

Private loans are funded through a lender, and choosing a lender is an important decision - it involves a financial obligation that will be a part of your life for many years to come. Picking a lender can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. You may choose any educational loan lender you prefer. Remember to always take advantage of your federal loan options first.

Below is a historical list of lenders who continue to participate in the private loan program and who within the last three years Chatham University students have used. The University does not endorse any lender. You may choose any educational loan lender you prefer.

Historical Lender List

Be Financial-Aid-Savvy and Do Your Research

Before you apply for the loan you will want to make sure you have done your research. Here are loan term definitions you should know before applying:

• Master promissory note: This is the agreement between you and the lender that you will re-pay the money when you graduate or fall below part time status. This is a legal contract. Please keep a copy for your records.
• Interest rate: The interest rate for the Stafford loan, Perkins loan and Plus loans are fixed. For a private loan the interest rate will vary. While you may see a low interest rate on a lender's website keep in mind that the low interest rate may depend on qualifying for the lender's benefit program.
• Loan fees: Some lenders will charge you an origination fee to use them as a lender while others will not. Remember that no origination fees do not save you any money in repayment, but you will receive more money up front.
• Interest rate reductions for using automatic payments: Some lenders will reduce your interest rate if you repay your loan through pre-scheduled automatic bank debits. Although the reduction in interest rate varies, the reduction is typically 0.25%.
• Libor: A term used for private student loans. This is the 3-month average of the London Interbank Offered Rate. LIBOR is the average interest rate paid on deposits of US dollars in the London market. APR - the Annual Percentage Rate, a rate that factors in the interest rate, fees, and other terms.
• Prime: The Prime Lending Rate as published in the Wall Street Journal. This is the rate banks charge their most creditworthy customers.
• Loan limits: The aggregate loan limit for the Stafford loan is specific to the type of student you are. For private loans, the aggregate limit is based on each lender's terms. This is the maximum you can borrow per year, as well as your entire time in school.
• Repayment terms: This is the amount of time you have to pay back the loan.
• Postponement options: If you need to postpone making payments, you can take advantage of deferment and forbearance options. Call your lender to learn more.

Know What Questions to Ask and What to Look For

Some questions you may want to ask are:

1. How often do you capitalize interest during postponement periods?
2. What are your repayment benefits? What percent of borrowers receive these benefits?
3. What do I have to do to receive these benefits and how are the benefits lost?
4. If I borrow $10,000 over my college career and I receive all these benefits, what will be the total dollar amount I will owe by the end of my 10 year repayment?
5. If I borrow $10,000 over my college career and I receive NONE of these benefits, what will be the total dollar amount I will repay by the end of my repayment?
6. Do you have a history of selling your loans?
7. How long have you been originating private loans?
8. What kind of debt management education do you provide?
9. How quickly can I talk to a real person when I call? How long am I on hold?
10. Is the lender able to provide insight and borrower education from pre-enrollment through repayment?

What Happens Next?

You have selected a lender, now it is time to apply using their website! Did you know that peak processing begins before school starts in the fall? Our sample timeline will guide you through the loan processes.

PRIVATE STUDENT LOANS:
April/May - Shop around for your lender.
June - On your lender's website complete the application/promissory note. Please note, at that time your co-signer must also complete his/her portion of the application. Follow up with your lender 4-5 days after completing the application. This is the time to verify that your application is complete and that no further information is required. (Common missing items include a copy of a driver's license, pay stub, or co-signer signature.)
July - The lender will then notify the financial office office will begin the process of certifying your student loan.
August-September - The lender will electronically send the loan funds to Chatham University.

Please note that individual loan providers have their own applications and timelines. Plan to apply at least 45 days prior to the date the bill is due.

Borrowers may compare lender discounts and other borrower benefits with the following loan comparison tools:

• College Board Student Loan Comparison Calculator
• Loan Discount Analyzer from FinAid.org

Chatham University adheres to the Financial Aid Code of Conduct based on the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008:

Financial Aid staff members are responsible for adhering to principles of good practice as mandated by state, federal, and institutional regulations, including the Policy for Ethical Practice. Financial Aid staff, as well as officers, trustees, and employees of Chatham University who make financial aid decisions for the University must adhere to the following professional standards.

• Refrain from taking any action for his or her personal benefit.
• Refrain from taking any action he or she believes is contrary to law, regulation, or the best interest of the students and parents he or she serves.
• Ensure that the information he or she provides is accurate, unbiased, and does not reflect any preference arising from actual or potential personal gain.
• Be objective in making decisions and advising Chatham University regarding relationships with any entity involved in any aspect of financial aid.
• Refrain from soliciting or accepting anything of other than nominal value from any entity involved in the making, holding, consolidating, or processing of student loans, including anything of value (including reimbursement of expenses) for serving on an advisory body. This includes, but not limited to, gifts such as travel, hotel or motel lodging, entertainment, restaurant meals, office supplies, and event tickets.
• Disclose in such a manner as Chatham University may prescribe, any involvement with or interest in any entity involved in any aspect of student financial aid.
• Institutional award notifications and/or other institutionally provided materials shall include the following:
  1. A breakdown of the individual components of the institution's Cost of Attendance, designating all potential billable charges.
  2. Clear identification of each award, indicating type of aid, i.e. gift aid (grant, scholarship), work or loan.
  3. Standard terminology and definitions.
  4. Renewal requirements for each award.
• All required consumer information is displayed in a prominent location on the Chatham University website and in any printed materials, easily identified and found, and labeled as "Consumer Information."
• Refrain from discussing options for or recommending any lender for private loans.

We’re pleased to announce that we’ve adopted a new solution that lets you submit payment via electronic check by choosing the option VeriCheck Payment on the portal. This option allows you to avoid the 2% processing fee but still have the convenience of paying online.

Click here to download a PDF with instructions on how to make a payment.

Company Reimbursement Program

The Company Reimbursement Program is offered for students who work for an employer who offers tuition reimbursement. The program allows students to defer payment of the reimbursed portion of their educational expenses until 30 days after the end of the term. Students are required to submit a completed Corporate Payment Options Application & Contract and a letter from their employer verifying employment and eligibility to participate in their company's tuition reimbursement program. Any amount not covered by tuition reimbursement must be paid in accordance with standard Chatham University payment policies. Company reimbursement may be counted as a financial aid resource for students receiving financial aid assistance. Applications for this program must be received by the close of the add/drop period.

Reimbursement Program Form

UPMC Tuition Advancement

UPMC Tuition Advancement is a special program for employees of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). Students must first submit the completed Corporate Payment Options Application & Contract in order to receive a special UPMC invoice. The student submits this invoice to the UPMC Employee Service Center along with the required UPMC advancement application. The Employee Service Center will process the advancement request and provide the student with an advancement letter indicating the amount of advancement. The student then submits the advancement letter to Chatham as a form of payment. Chatham University will then bill UPMC for all advancement amounts. Any amount not covered by tuition advancement must be paid in accordance with standard Chatham University payment policies. Tuition advancement may be counted as a financial aid resource for students receiving financial aid assistance. Applications for this program must be received by the close of the add/drop period.

UPMC Tuition Advancement Employee Application

Tuition Reduction Program

The Tuition Reduction Program is offered for students who work for an employer that is on Chatham University Corporate Payment Options list that has entered into a partnership agreement. Upon receipt of a completed DocuSign application and employment/partnership verification letter or proof of membership, a 20% tuition discount will be applied to the student account after add/drop period. Students already receiving discounted tuition are not eligible for an additional 20% discount. Applications for this program must be received by the close of the add/drop period.

Tuition Reduction Application

How to Apply

To apply for one of the Corporate Payment Options, please complete the correct DocuSign and attach all required documents from your employer as required for the payment option you choose.  Upon receipt of your completed DocuSign, Chatham University will review your application for approval and contact you should they require additional documentations. Please remember that this process must be completed for every semester attended. All discounts will be added after the add/drop period. 

Questions?

All questions should be directed to The Office of Student Accounts at 412-365-2719 or studentaccounts@chatham.edu.

• Avoid incurring student loan debt by paying as you go
• Easy and quick sign-up with 24-hour online access for ongoing management
• Automatic reminders so you don’t miss a payment
• Accounts are automatically recalculated and updated as changes occur

Click here to download a PDF with instructions on how to enroll in a payment plan.

Payment Plans: Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What are Chatham University's Payment Plan(s) offerings?

Chatham offers 2, 3, 4, and 5-month payment plans during each fall and spring semester. A 2-month payment plan is also available for the summer semester. 

Monthly installments are due on the 15th of each month. The final payment for all fall payment plans is November 15th, and the final payment for all spring plans is April 15th.

Payment plans can be accessed through TouchNet during the corresponding enrollment window (below).

Q: What are the enrollment dates for the payment plan offered by Chatham University?

Q: What payment methods can I use when enrolling in my Chatham University payment plan?

You can sign up for a payment plan and pay via ACH (direct debit from your bank account), credit or debit card. You can also make a one-time payment using the same payment methods. 

Q: What happens if I cannot make an installment payment?

If an installment payment is late, a $35 late fee will be assessed to your student account. Payments must be made immediately, or you may be dropped from your classes for the amount owed. A financial hold will be placed on the student account.

Q: Why did my installment amounts change for my payment plan?

The Payment Plan adjusts your payment amounts as new charges or credits are applied to your student account.

Q: What if I have financial aid?

If a student is awarded financial aid for a semester, installment payments will be reduced to reflect the amount of the award. If a student's award is reduced during the semester and a balance is owed, the payment plan will automatically be recalculated, and an updated plan will be sent to the student and authorized user.

Please contact the Office of Student Accounts for additional information regarding the payment plan at SAO@chatham.edu or 412-365-2719.