There are quite a few steps you'll need to take to apply for federal loans -- and you can count on SunTrust to help you through the entire process. You may want to print this page, and keep it handy to refer to in the upcoming months.

The Financial Aid Process for Federal Loans

• Step 1: Students should contact the admissions offices of the schools he or she is considering and make sure to get all the schools' admissions information and school applications. Also, request information on financial aid including deadlines on when applications are due.
  
  
• Step 2: Start the federal loan process by getting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Also, obtain financial aid forms from the college financial aid office. Collect all the information you'll need to complete the FAFSA, such as tax returns and financial statements. Be sure to complete these forms and submit them prior to their deadlines. If you'd like, you can submit the FAFSA electronically.
  
  
• Step 3: After filing the FAFSA, the student attending college should receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) in the mail. Make sure the information in the report is correct, and signed by the student. Then return it to the schools being considered. Students should receive an award package from each school with details on the types of aid qualified for. These types of aid could include scholarships, grants, work-study programs, or Federal Stafford Loans. At this point in the process, you can apply for Federal Stafford Loan online or if you have any questions about the application process, please feel free to contact us.
  
  
• Step 4: Complete the Master Promissory Note and return it to the school or schools by their deadline. Be sure all parties listed on the note understand every detail of the loan, especially the repayment process.

  At this point, if you want to apply for a Federal PLUS Loan and you're not sure about your eligibility, you should consider going through SunTrust's PLUS Loan Pre-Approval. SunTrust offers the PLUS Pre-Approval to help you confirm your credit history before you begin the application process. Or, if you're ready, apply now. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.
  
  

• Step 5: If you still have additional education expenses, look into private loan options from SunTrust. These private loans can help bridge the gap!