Financing a college education is a concern for many families. Most financial aid packages will include student loans; however, federally subsidized and unsubsidized loans may not cover the total cost of attendance. Consequently, families are faced with meeting the cost of attendance.

Alternative loans are not federally guaranteed and as a rule do not require that you file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Most alternative loan applications will require certification by the Student Financial Aid Office. Terms, fees, and borrowing limits of alternative loans differ significantly. The yearly amount cannot exceed the annual cost of attendance minus other financial aid.