Loans
Student loans can be an important tool to help pay for college, but like any debt, they should be used wisely and only when necessary.
At John Carroll, our goal is to help you graduate with confidence and a solid financial foundation. We encourage families to explore scholarships and grants and payment options first — loans should be a last resort, not a first step.
Only borrow what you need. The financial decisions you make today will follow you after graduation. SEFS offers financial aid guidance and loan counseling to help you make informed decisions — reach out anytime.
Federal Loans
Select your situation to see what’s available to you.
To be eligible, complete the FAFSA. If your award includes a Direct Loan, accept or decline within 14 days of the award letter or by May 1, whichever is later.
Direct Subsidized Loans are available to students with demonstrated financial need. The U.S. Department of Education pays the interest while you’re enrolled at least half-time, during the six-month grace period after leaving school, and during approved deferment periods.
Direct Unsubsidized Loans are available regardless of financial need. You are responsible for all interest that accrues. If unpaid, interest is added to your principal balance.
Annual limits by year
| Year | Dependent | Independent |
|---|---|---|
| Freshman | $5,500 | $9,500 |
| Sophomore | $6,500 | $10,500 |
| Junior / Senior | $7,500 | $12,500 |
| Lifetime Limit | $31,000 | $57,500 |
Not sure if you’re dependent or independent? Your FAFSA determines your status. Contact SEFS at enrollment@jcu.edu with questions.
Special Program Rules
Most students fall into the standard undergraduate or graduate categories above. If you’re in a certificate, teacher certification, or post-baccalaureate program, your eligibility may differ. Use the table and details below to confirm your situation.
Does this section apply to you?
| Program type | Eligible? | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Teacher Certification | Limited | Only eligible for 1 year of aid. Not all programs qualify. |
| Post-Baccalaureate Preparatory | Limited | Limits depend on dependency status and coursework type. Not all programs qualify. |
| Graduate Certificates | Some eligible | Only specific certificates qualify. Most do not. |
| Post-Master’s Programs | Not eligible | Federal loan aid is not available for post-master’s programs. |
| Non-degree / Non-matriculated / Transient | Not eligible | Federal loan aid is not available regardless of enrollment level. |
Find your specific program
Teacher Certification 1 year only
Teacher certification students are eligible for up to 12 consecutive months of federal loan aid, provided total undergraduate eligibility has not been reached. Limits follow fifth-year undergraduate rules even though a bachelor’s degree is required and the program runs through the Graduate School.
Eligible programs
- Early Childhood Generalist
- Endorsements: Reading, Early Childhood, Middle Childhood
- Initial Teacher Licensures: Integrated Language Arts, Integrated Social Studies, Mathematics, Life Science, Chemistry/Life Science, Physics, Chemistry, Chemistry/Physics, Physical Education (multi-age)
Post-Baccalaureate Preparatory Coursework Limited
Students completing post-baccalaureate preparatory coursework required for graduate program admission may qualify for limited federal loan aid based on dependency status and coursework type.
Eligible programs
- Pre-medical (post-baccalaureate)
- Post-Bac in Business (BSOB)
- Post-Bac in College of Arts & Sciences (CAS)
Lifetime limits: $2,625 (dependent) / $12,500 (independent) for undergraduate-level coursework.
Graduate Certificate Programs Some eligible
Some graduate certificates qualify for standard graduate loan limits. The following are eligible:
- Theology / Ecclesial (TRS)
- Substance Use Disorders (SUD)
Certificates not listed above are not eligible for federal loan aid. Contact SEFS at enrollment@jcu.edu if you are unsure whether your program qualifies.
Post-Master’s Programs Not eligible
Students enrolled in post-master’s programs do not qualify for federal loan aid at JCU. This includes:
- Principal Licensure
- Mental Health Counseling Licensure
- School Counseling (post-master’s track)
- All other post-master’s programs
Private loans may still be an option — contact SEFS at enrollment@jcu.edu to discuss your situation.
Non-Degree / Non-Matriculated / Transient Students Not eligible
The following student types do not qualify for federal loan aid regardless of enrollment level:
- Non-degree seeking students
- Non-matriculated students
- Transient students
- Workshop and professional/continuing education students
- Certificates not listed as eligible above
- Teacher Leader endorsement
Private Loans
Private loans can help cover costs not met by federal aid, but we recommend exhausting all federal and state options first. Terms vary significantly between lenders — interest rates, fees, credit requirements, and repayment options are not standardized.
SEFS partners with FastChoice to help you research and compare private loan options. FastChoice walks you through borrowing basics before showing current lender options side by side — including rates, fees, and repayment terms.
You may borrow from any lender, not just those in FastChoice. If you choose a lender outside the tool, notify SEFS at enrollment@jcu.edu so they are aware of your application.
