Loans

Student loans can be used to pay for a variety of costs associated with your college education, such as tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, transportation, and the purchase of a computer or software. However, while borrowing funds may be a wise investment, it deserves careful consideration; all student loans must be paid back, including interest and fees. Before deciding to take out a loan, be sure to look for free money first, such as grants and scholarships, and speak to a CCRI Financial Aid Counselor about other funding options. If you meet eligibility requirements you can submit a Federal Loan request below.

Loan Request Form

To receive a loan from CCRI you must complete a Loan Request Form. Student Loan Information can be found here.

2025-2026 Loan request form  

For Fall 2025, Spring 2026, & Summer 2026.

Types of Federal Loans

Federal Direct Loans are available to students who qualify for federal financial aid and are enrolled in at least six credits per semester. If you decide to borrow, there are two types of Federal Direct Loans: subsidized and unsubsidized. Eligible parents of dependent students can also take out Direct Parent PLUS loans.

Federal Subsidized Direct Loans

These loans are available based on your demonstrated financial need, determined by information provided on your FAFSA®. The federal government will pay the interest on a subsidized loan while you are in school at least half-time. Repayment is deferred until students graduate, withdraw or enroll less than half-time. An origination fee is charged at disbursement.There are limits on how much you can borrow based on your year in school.

Federal Unsubsidized Direct Loans

Unsubsidized direct loans are available for students who don’t demonstrate financial need. You are responsible for all interest that accrues on the loan. You may choose to make interest payments while in school or defer interest payments, which will then be added to the principal of the loan. There are limits on how much you can borrow based on your year in school.

Federal Parent PLUS Loans

PLUS loans enable parents with good credit histories to borrow money to help pay for their child’s college expenses. The student must be enrolled at least half-time in a degree program. Parents can borrow up to the student’s full cost of education less other types of financial aid. If your family is interested in borrowing a Parent PLUS loan, please contact your Financial Aid Counselor.

Loan Exit Counseling

If you are leaving or graduating from CCRI and you have borrowed a Federal Direct Loan, you are required to complete Loan Exit Counseling. Click here for exit counseling.

Steps to Apply for a Loan

You must be enrolled in at least six credits required for your degree or certificate program and have completed a FAFSA. You can also follow these steps:

  1. Complete BOTH the Master Promissory Note and Loan Entrance Counseling for Subsidized/ Unsubsidized loan type at studentaid.gov.
  2. After completing the Master Promissory Note and Entrance Counseling, contact your Financial Aid Counselor to determine the amount you need to cover your tuition, fees, books, and other qualified expenses.
  3. Once the semester begins, go to class! Attendance in six credits is needed to maintain eligibility for your loan.

WILLIAM D. FORD FEDERAL DIRECT LOAN PROGRAM

 

Federal Direct Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS)

PLUS loans allow parents of dependent undergraduate students to borrow up to the cost of education minus other financial aid. There are no aggregate loan limits. The program has a fixed interest rate. An origination fee is charged at disbursement.

Federal Direct Student Loans at the Community College of Rhode Island

Private Education Loans

Private education loans are an alternative financing option to cover costs associated with attending college. These are typically credit-based educational loans that are provided through various private lenders or state loan authorities. Since these loans are credit-based a credit worthy U. S. borrower is required, and many times a co-borrower is necessary.

 Private Education Loans at the Community College of Rhode Island.

Average Student Debt

In 2023-2024, 25% of our students borrowed federal loans with an average debt of $11,482.

Have a Question?

Contact Financial Aid

If you need assistance with financing your education at the Community College of Rhode Island, the knowledgeable staff in the Financial Aid Department is ready to help.

Contact Financial Aid  

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