Private Loans

Alternative education loans (also known as private loans) are another option for financing your Graduate School of Management education. Federal, state and university policy recommends that student borrowers maximize federal loans before the alternative/private loan request is processed. 

What to know before you borrow

Before you take out a private loan, here are some things to consider: 

  • Alternative loan eligibility requirements vary from lender to lender.
  • Alternative loan lenders can offer variable interest rates that can increase or decrease over time, depending on market conditions. 
  • Students may also be required to meet citizenship requirements or provide a co-signer who meets citizenship requirements.
  • The interest rate on a private loan may depend on the borrower’s and/or co-signer’s credit rating.
  • Other eligibility requirements may apply depending on the lender. 
  • Review the interest rate and processing fees prior to borrowing.

UC Davis is not involved in the alternative loan credit decision. All credit decision questions should be directed to the loan lender. Financial aid eligibility applies to all certifications of loan amounts.

Pro Tip: StudentAid.gov provides a federal and alternative/private loan comparison.

How do I find out if I’m eligible?

Complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act in order to determine student loan eligibility.

Where can I find loan options?

To start your search, the UC Office of the President has put together a list of recommended lenders. Please be aware that you are not required to use any of the lenders on the list, they are simply provided for your convenience.

Per the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) guidelines, the UC Davis Financial Aid and Scholarships office adheres to the University of California Code of Conduct in regard to lender arrangements. If you have specific questions related to your credit history you should contact the alternative loan lenders at the numbers provided on the website listed below:

UC Private Lender List (managed by ELMSelect)