Loans
Education is within reach. Browse Federal loan options for students and parents.
Federal Direct Stafford Loan Information
Subsidized Stafford Loans – need-based loans.
- Students are not responsible for interest accrued on the loan while the student is in school.
- Payment and interest do not have to be paid as long as the borrower is enrolled at least half-time (6 or more credit hours).
Unsubsidized Loans – similar to Subsidized Loans, except they are not need-based loans and students are responsible for the interest accrued on the loan while the student is in school.
The Financial Aid Office will determine the type of loan you will receive based on your estimated cost of attendance, other aid received and financial eligibility. Students will accept or deny their offered loans through their myGCC account.
Eligibility: At least 6 credit hours, enrolled or non-enrolled with special approval, good academic standing, demonstrate financial need, U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen.
Annual Loan Limits:
| Student Title | Dependent | Independent |
| Freshman (0-23 credit hours) | $5,500 | $9,500 |
| Sophomore (24+ credit hours) | $6,500 | $10,500 |
Repayment: 6 months after ceasing to be at least a half-time student. After you graduate or drop below half-time status (6 credits) you may be able to consolidate your loans into a single loan through the Federal Consolidation Loan.
Calculate My Future Loan Payments
Apply: Students can apply by submitting a request from their myGCC account under the Student Life tab. Borrowers will also need to complete the Master Promissory Note and Entrance Counseling on Studentaid.gov.
Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students (PLUS)
PLUS is a federally guaranteed loan program for dependent undergraduate students that allows their parents to borrow for their education expenses.
Eligibility: Parent (biological or adoptive parent or in some cases a stepparent) of a dependent, at least 6 credit hours matriculated, U.S. citizen or equivalent, good academic standing, parent credit check.
Amount: Up to full cost of education minus other financial aid.
Repayment: Monthly payments beginning with total disbursement of loan, 10- to 30-year repayment plan.
How to Apply
Submit your GCC PLUS Mandatory Information Sheet
Borrowers will also complete the Master Promissory Note including credit check on Studentaid.gov.