Private Loans for Law Students
There are significant differences between federal educational loans available through the government and private educational loans available through banks and other private lending institutions.
We urge you to compare credit-based loan information and terms carefully to determine the best fit for your particular circumstances. You are not required to borrow from any particular lender.
You can find additional information about private loans for graduate and professional students on the Boston University Financial Assistance website – Private Credit-Based Loans for Graduate and Professional Students.
International students can find information about private loan options here – Credit-Based Loans for International Students
To apply for a private loan, you must complete the Private Education Loan Applicant Self-Certification.
Bar Loans Offered by Private Lenders
Several private lenders offer loans to JD students specifically to cover expenses incurred while students prepare for the bar exam. These loans may cover living expenses during the summer, bar exam fees, and fees for review courses. Each lender sets their own limits for the amount that you may borrow. You may apply for a Bar Exam Loan during the spring semester of your third year or after graduation depending on the policies set by the lender.
A Bar Loan does not need to fit within your student budget for the academic year. The loan funds will be sent directly to you. You may specify the amount (within the limits set by the lender) and the disbursement dates.
Some lenders require school certification to complete the application. In these situations, BU is certifying that you are a graduating JD student and that the requested disbursements comply with the lender’s policies.
The following lenders currently offer bar loans:
You are not limited to the products identified by Boston University or the School of Law and are welcome to use any lender of your choice. You should evaluate all loan products carefully in light of your particular circumstances.