Parent PLUS Loans

Federal Family Education Loan Program (PLUS)

Bergen Community College and the New Jersey Higher Education Assistance Authority offer Federal PLUS Parent Loans to assist parents in paying for their students' education expenses.

The PLUS loan is for parents or legal guardians of dependent undergraduate students. The PLUS loan enables parents with good credit histories to borrow for the education expenses of the student who is enrolled at least half-time. Borrowers must pass a credit check.

How do I apply?

To find out if you qualify, apply now for a Federal PLUS Parent Loan  During the initial application process you will be asked to submit an instant credit check for PLUS loan pre-approval. If approved, you have the option to complete and submit online a Federal PLUS Parent Loan application. If you are denied, your student may be eligible to apply for an additional unsubsidized Federal Stafford Student Loan . The student must make an appointment to see a loan administrator in the Financial Aid Office room L-123 (main building)

How much can I borrow?

As a PLUS parent borrower, you can borrow the Cost of Attendance (the budget created by the college for your student ) minus any financial aid that we award  the student.

For more information, contact the Financial Aid Office room L-123.

Are there any special charges?

Generally, you will pay an origination fee of up to 3% that will be deducted from the principal of the loan prior to disbursement. The origination fee is paid to the federal government to offset the cost of the program.

Parent Plus Loan

Please follow up with your chosen lender to ensure that the certification page was sent promptly to Bergen Community College to ensure the timely processing of your Parent Plus Loan request.

When will I receive my loan funds?

      2009 Schedule for Releasing Plus Parent Loan Checks

• The Office of Financial Aid will notify you by mail that the PLUS Loan check has arrived. Instructions on how to endorse the PLUS loan check will be outlined in the letter.
• The parent borrower will have 30 days from the date of the letter to come into the office of Financial Aid.
• Once signed, the Plus Loan will be applied to your students tuition and fees account.
• If you fail to endorse the check within 30 days:
• The check will be returned to the lender,the loan will be cancelled and the student will be responsible     for all outstanding tuition and fees.

Student Aid Guide

For general information about parent loans, see The Student Guide, Financial Aid from the U.S. Department of Education