PCU Student Loans

You know the value of a college education.

Getting a college degree is a worthwhile goal. College graduates make an average of one million dollars more than those without college degrees (see student loan facts). But the cost of a college education can be overwhelming for both students and parents. That’s why Permaculture Credit Union offers Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP) loans. If you or another family member plans to attend a university, technical college, or any specialized training program, Pemaculture Credit Union can help you with the funding you need to pursue your dreams.

FFELP offers loans for students and parents.

Stafford Loans

	The subsidized Federal Stafford Loan is based on financial need. The government pays the interest while you are in school.
	The unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loan is not based on need but family income is a determining factor. You pay all the interest, although you can have the payments deferred until after graduation.

Parent PLUS/ Grad PLUS Loans

Creditworthy parents of dependent undergraduate students and graduate/professional students can apply for this loan, which is not based on need.

Learn more about low-interest federal student loans.

	Refer to the Student Loan Quick Reference Guide for more details on Stafford and PLUS Loans including:
	the application process
	current rates
	loan limits
	toll-free numbers to check the status of your loan account

Take advantage of these interest rate reductions at Pemraculture Credit Union.

	0.25% interest rate reduction to members making student loan payments through Automated Clearing House (ACH).
	2.00% interest rate reduction after 48 on-time payments.

Manage your finances

Permaculture Credit Union and Great Lakes are committed to helping students learn to manage their finances. The regularly updated Personal Financial Management Resources provides information on anticipating college costs and staying in control of your finances while in school.

Plan your future. Visit these Web sites.

www.mapping-your-future.org - Detailed information about career planning, selecting a school, and paying for college.
www.studentaid.ed.gov/ - Detailed student aid and student loan information from the U.S. Department of Education.
www.fastweb.com/ - Scholarship information.
www.fafsa.ed.gov/ - Online application for financial aid (FAFSA).
www.pin.ed.gov/ - Apply for a PIN number to complete online FAFSA.
www.mygreatlakes.org/ - Great Lakes Educational Loan Services, Inc. is the guaranty agency for your student loans. You can check the status of your student loans here.
www.nslds.ed.gov/ - View the history of the federal student financial aid you have received.

 
Going off to College Packet.

	Frequently Asked Questions on Student Loans (85 KB/ 3 pages)
	Glossary for Financial Aid and Student Loans (86 KB/ 5 pages)
	High School Planning Guide for Parents and Students (234 KB/ 3 pages)
	FAFSA Completion Tips (74 KB/ 1 page)

 
Need help?

For help with the student loan process, call the Permaculture credit union Toll Free at (866) 954-3479 or Local at (505) 954-3479.