Applying for Federal PLUS Loans
Important Update:
Parent PLUS Loans Will Be Limited
Beginning with the 2026-2027 academic year, Parents will be capped at $20,000 per year with a lifetime borrowing limit of $65,000, per student. If a borrower has a Parent Plus loan made before July 1, 2026, while the dependent is enrolled in a program of study. The parent can still borrow under the current loan limits for up to three more academic years or until the student finish their program, whichever comes first.
Grad PLUS Loans
Starting July 1, 2026, Grad PLUS Loans will no longer be available to new borrowers.. If a borrower has a Grad Plus loan made before July 1, 2026, while enrolled in a program of study, the borrower can continue to borrow from the program for up to three more academic years or until the student finish their program, whichever comes first. The payment terms for Grad PLUS loans taken out before July 2026 will be honored.
The Unsubsidized loan program will dramatically limit what students can borrow. Grad students will be able to borrow up to $20,500 annually with a lifetime cap of $100,000. If you already have a Grad PLUS Loan—or take one out before the cutoff—you’re still covered. Borrowers will have a three-year grace period after July 1, 2026, to continue borrowing under the current rules.
How to Apply
Parents or graduate students who choose to apply for a Federal PLUS Loan will need to complete the following steps:
| Federal PLUS Loan | |
| Step 1 | The student must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). |
| Step 2 | Determine the dollar amount you want to borrow. A parent may borrow a Parent PLUS loan or a graduate student may borrow a Grad PLUS loan up to the difference between the Clarkson College cost of attendance budget and the student's estimated financial aid. Use the budget worksheet to help determine the amount you want to borrow. |
| Step 3 | Complete PLUS Application and Master Promissory Note at https://studentaid.gov. Parent Borrowers:
|
Student Financial Services
Hours of Operation
Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CST
Contact
Student Financial Services Office
101 South 42nd Street
Omaha, NE 68131-2739
FX 402.552.6165
Financial Aid:
Staff Contacts
Laura Tworek - Last names A-H;
Caylee Will - I-Se;
Vanessa Campbell - Sf-Z
Email
[email protected]
PH 402.552.2749
Book an Appointment via
Microsoft Bookings here.
Student Accounts:
Email
[email protected]
PH 402.552.6816
