How to Get a Student Loan for a Returning Student

Almost all students who attend four-year universities keep the same loans through all four years. The amounts of those loans may change, but obtaining them for another year is easy. Here's how to get a student loan for a returning student.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• FAFSA forms

1. Know your financial obligations for the upcoming year. Since it may change from year to year as you progress through school, make sure to look at all finances and see if you need more or less than previously asked for.

2. Fill out your Renewal FAFSA form. The Renewal FAFSA form carries most information over from the previous year.

3. Research different types of student loans. Find the type of loan that is best for you.

4. Contact a lender and discuss your options. There are several private lenders available online, or at your local banks and credit unions.

5. Decide your loan amounts. These could change from the previous year.

6. Fill out your award application. Your school should send you a packet.

Tips & Warnings

• The FAFSA Renewal form is available to those eligible students who filled it out in the prior award year.

• Be sure your award application, when signed, has the correct amounts for each loan you need.

• Remember not to incur a loan that is larger than the amount you need.