Federal Student Loans are available to graduate and professional students. These federally supported loans offer flexible repayment options.

As a graduate student, you are eligible for the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan, allowing you to borrow up to $20,500 per academic year. For additional funding, consider the credit-based Federal Graduate PLUS loan, which can cover up to the cost of attendance (tuition, room and board, books, supplies, travel, personal expenses, and loan fees).

How to Apply for a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan

It is highly recommended that you complete the loan application steps below at least one month prior to the beginning of the semester:

1. Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

  • Must be completed online and submitted each academic year
  • Federal School Code for Boston University: 002130
  • Parent income data is not required
  • We encourage you to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool to transfer your IRS federal income tax information from the IRS to your FAFSA

2. Entrance Counseling

  • Must be completed online (select “I am a Graduate or Professional Student”)
  • Must be completed by first-time borrowers of Boston University

3. Master Promissory Note

  • Must be completed online (select Subsidized/Unsubsidized MPN)
  • May be used for one or more academic years (up to ten years)

4. Loan Request Form

Complete the appropriate loan request form below for the Direct Unsubsidized Loan, following instructions at the link provided:

The federal student loan application process for Fall 2024/Spring 2025 will be changing with the implementation of the new MyBU Student Portal. Please complete steps 1–3 and monitor your email for more information later this summer.