Alternative or Private Loans

Sometimes federal student and parent loans are not enough to cover all educational expenses. For this reason, you may consider applying for an alternative loan, such as a Signature Loan offered by Sallie Mae that may be used as a supplemental resource for paying college costs. Alternative Loans are unlike Stafford or PLUS Loans, for they require a separate application, a credit check, and may require a co-signor if you have less than two years of good credit history. By applying online you will know instantly if you are eligible or if you need a co-signor.

View more information on the Signature Loan. Or, apply for a Signature Loan online. If you are unable to apply online please contact your local Columbia College Financial Aid Office for a paper application.