Alternative Loans

Emerson does not refer or recommend Alternative Loan lenders to students and/or parents. While we understand that you may have questions, we believe you have the right and ability to seek the education loan provider of your choice.

Local Banks

If you would like a starting reference of where to research lenders that are participating in the educational lending market, we suggest that you talk to your current banking relationships to see if they offer any education loan programs and benefits for their customers.

State Agencies

You can also contact your home state's educational financing agency (you can often find them through a quick online search). In New England, the higher education financing agencies are:

• Connecticut
• Maine
• Massachusetts
• New Hampshire
• Rhode Island
• Vermont

Common Questions

Here are some things you might want to consider when deciding what loan is best for you:

• What is the interest rate based on: prime rate, Libor, something else?
• How long is the repayment period?
• What are the fees?
• Does the lender offer any repayment benefits?
• Who is the borrower of the loan? Will I need a co-signer?
• Is the loan deferred while the student is in school?

You should also compare interest rates, fees, borrowing limits, and credit requirements.

Other Information

Most lenders require the student to be enrolled at least half-time in a degree-seeking program, unless noted below. Most loan proceeds are disbursed directly to the student’s account at Emerson College.

If you want to learn more about credit reports and how banks use credit scoring to determine creditworthiness, visit the myFICO Credit Education Center.

Information on financing programs is subject to change without notice. Emerson College is not responsible for any changes.

Revised 4/27/10