Carnegie Mellon University

Private Loans

Private loan programs offer competitive interest rates and borrower benefits. To increase chances of approval and possibly improve the rate you receive, students are strongly recommended to apply with a creditworthy co-signer. Some lenders require students to apply with a co-signer regardless of your income or credit rating. Look at each loan program for these requirements. Private loans are also available for parents or guardians. Those applying for private loans should complete the Private Loan Certification Form (pdf).

FASTChoice

FASTChoice is a loan comparison service offered free-of-charge to schools by the Great Lakes Higher Education Corporation. Private loan options are available for both students and parents.

Private Student Loans

Private student loans are offered through private lenders within FASTChoice. These are through the student's name and a credit check is used to determine eligibility. By applying with a creditworthy individual (for example, a parent or guardian), the student may improve chances of approval.

Private Parent Loans

Private parent loans are also offered through private lenders within FASTChoice. These are private loans that a parent or guardian can borrow on behalf of a student and a credit check is used to determine eligibility.

International Students

Some private loans are offered to Carnegie Mellon students. Eligible students interested in applying for this loan can do so with or without a co-signer through FASTChoice.  

Compare & Apply

Once in FASTChoice, students and parents will be able to compare various loan programs and link directly to the lender of their choice to begin an application. Lenders will automatically notify Carnegie Mellon when an application is fully approved. Then they will request school certification electronically. When requested, provide your lender with these identifiers:

  • Name of postsecondary institution (Carnegie Mellon University)
  • Federal school code: 003242-00

Additional Resources:

PLUS vs. Private Loans (Undergraduate) (pdf)

PLUS vs. Private Loans (Graduate) (pdf)

Consolidation & Refinancing