Direct Loans- Graduate PLUS
Graduate PLUS Loan
The Graduate PLUS Loan is a federal loan available to graduate and professional students.
It is not a Parent PLUS Loan. This unsubsidized loan is designed to help cover educational expenses beyond what is offered through other financial aid, including the $20,500 annual Direct Unsubsidized Loan limit for graduate students.
Students may borrow up to the full Cost of Attendance (COA), minus any other aid received. A credit check is required, and students must complete a separate Master Promissory Note (MPN) for this loan.
How to Apply at CWU
CWU does not use the federal online application for the Graduate PLUS Loan. Instead, follow these steps:
- Accept your Graduate PLUS Loan in MyCWU.
- Go to MyCWU > Financial Toolbox > Accept/Decline Awards.
- Once accepted, the Financial Aid Office will begin processing your loan through CWU’s internal application system.
- You must complete a new Graduate PLUS Master Promissory Note (MPN) at studentaid.gov.
- A credit check will be conducted during the MPN process.
- Watch your CWU email for updates and confirmation of disbursement.
Additional Information and Considerations
Students using the Graduate PLUS Loan should be aware of the following details:
- It is a federal unsubsidized loan with interest accruing from the time of disbursement.
- You can borrow up to the full Cost of Attendance (COA), minus other financial aid.
- A credit check is required to qualify.
- A separate Master Promissory Note (MPN) must be completed.
- Repayment begins 60 days after the final disbursement, unless a deferment is requested.
To receive a Graduate PLUS Loan, you must request and accept it, complete Entrance Counseling and a valid Master Promissory Note (MPN), and ensure your loan disburses before June 30—otherwise, it will be canceled.
Interest Rates and Fees
Graduate PLUS Loans have a fixed interest rate and origination fee, which are set annually by the U.S. Department of Education. For the most up-to-date information, visit studentaid.gov. In some cases, a home equity loan may offer a lower interest rate and tax-deductible benefits. We recommend comparing all options carefully before borrowing.
Lifetime Borrowing Limits
Graduate students may borrow up to a lifetime maximum of $138,500 in federal loans, including any subsidized loans received as an undergraduate. Of this amount, no more than $65,500 may be subsidized.
Loan Forgiveness and Cancellation
You may qualify to have part, or even all, of your federal student loans forgiven. Programs are available for teachers, public service employees, and other qualifying careers.
Learn more about your optionsCWU News
CWU Disability Services aims to provide equitable access to education
February 23, 2026 by Rune Torgersen
CWU faculty member awarded Fulbright post-doctoral scholarship
February 23, 2026 by David Leder
Get Started with Financial Aid
Questions? Contact Us.
Financial Aid
Bouillon Hall 106