According to federal regulations, students in Graduate Certification programs (principal, superintendent, school treasurer, etc.) may not receive Federal Stafford or Federal PLUS Loans. The regulation states that only students in degree-granting programs are eligible for federal loans and further states that graduate certification programs are considered professional development. The federal regulation makes an exception only for students in teacher licensure/certification programs.
Private education loans for professional development and/or continuing education are available for general licensure students. You may click on the link below for a listing of private loans. However, please note that you may select any lender you choose. The Financial Aid Office advises that you carefully read the terms and fine print as you make your selection of lenders because interest rates and fees vary and can increase the total cost of your loan substantially.
If you have questions, contact the Financial Aid Office at 800-882-1548 x5003.
How to Apply for a Private Education Loan
- Complete the AU Loan Application for Graduate Students and/or the AU Summer Loan Application. You must complete an AU Loan Application for each term that you wish to borrow a private education loan in order that we may certify your loan application when the lender sends it to our office.
- Apply directly to the lender of your choice. Click on the link below for a listing of lenders who provide private education loans.
Click the link below for a listing of some private education loans available for Graduate Certification students: