What can I do if I get denied during the Graduate PLUS Loan application process?

When students apply for the Graduate PLUS loan, a credit check will be performed during the application process. If students have an adverse credit history, they may still receive a Direct PLUS Loan by obtaining an endorser who does not have an adverse credit history or documenting to the U.S. Department of Education’s satisfaction of extenuating circumstances relating to adverse credit history.

To be considered for a Graduate PLUS loan, a student with adverse credit, must choose to either endorse or appeal the original credit decision.  Otherwise, the Graduate PLUS loan will remain in a "denied" status.

For more information about applying with an endorser or appealing with extenuating circumstances, students can contact Direct Loans at 1-800-557-7394.