Stafford Application Process

The student applies for financial aid through their school's Financial Aid Office by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and any other documents required by the school. The Financial Aid Office at the school you will be attending prepares a notification which details the financial assistance you are eligible to receive, including Federal Stafford Loans. Be sure to exhaust all other forms of aid (grants, scholarships and work-study) before borrowing. Unsubsidized Stafford Loans can be used to cover unmet financial need or help with meeting the expected family contribution.

If this is your first Stafford Loan, a Master Promissory Note (MPN) must be completed and you may be required by your school to participate in a loan counseling session or activity.

It's easy to apply.

• The student completes a Master Promissory Note.
• A credit check is not required.
• The amount borrowed may not exceed total educational expenses less total financial aid received from all other sources.
• The student must review the Rights and Responsibilities in obtaining a Stafford Loan.
• The school determines and certifies the loan amount.

The Electronic Process

Most postsecondary schools participate in an electronic Stafford Loan process enabling you to complete the application online. Your school will contact you to review your responsibilities in obtaining a Stafford Loan. National Education works with schools to provide the fastest and easiest electronic loan process possible. If your school does not appear in the drop down box on our application, please contact your school.

The Paper Process

If your postsecondary school uses paper processing methods:

• Obtain an application from your school or from us. You can download an application from this site or call us at 1-800-345-4325.
• Complete the Borrower Section. Be sure to list National Education as your lender to take advantage of our low rates, borrower benefits and service.
• Read your Rights and Responsibilities and all applicant information.
• Sign and date the application.
• Submit the application to your school for completion of the School Certification Section.
• Your school will forward your application to National Education.
• We will disburse the funds to your school on the dates requested.