Bournemouth University - United States Federal Loans

What US Federal Loans at Bournemouth University give you

You can obtain repayable student loans from the US government (Title IV Direct Loans) to fund your studies at Bournemouth University in the United Kingdom. These are loans, not grants, so you will need to repay them once you have completed your studies. The amount you can borrow each year depends on your level of study. Undergraduate students borrow around 5,000 to 11,500 euros per year (approximately $5,500 to $12,500). Master’s students can borrow up to around 18,500 euros per year (up to $20,500 in the form of Direct Unsubsidised Loans). If this is not sufficient, a ‘Direct PLUS Loan’ can cover the difference up to the full cost of your studies – the annual amount set by the university to cover tuition fees, living costs, accommodation, travel expenses, visa fees and the health insurance surcharge.

There are three types of loan. Direct Subsidised Loans: The US Department of Education covers the interest whilst you are studying and for six months afterwards. Direct Unsubsidised Loans: Interest begins to accrue as soon as the funds are disbursed. Direct PLUS loans: These require a credit check. Repayment begins six months after you finish your studies, and you can choose from a range of options, including income-driven repayment plans, where your repayment amounts are linked to your income.

Who can apply

• Nationality: You are a US citizen or hold a permanent residence permit for the US (a Green Card holder).
• Where you study: You have been admitted to a degree programme at Bournemouth University in the UK and will be living in the UK for the duration of your studies.
• Level: This offer is aimed at students on Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programmes, whether full-time or part-time, provided they are studying at least half-time.
• Course: Most degree programmes are eligible for funding. However, some are not, including nursing, midwifery, physiotherapy, social work, LLM programmes, and online or distance-learning programmes.
• Progress: You hold a high school qualification or equivalent, meet the criteria set by the US Department of Education, and are making satisfactory academic progress (i.e. you are passing enough courses to remain on track with your study programme).
• Placements: Your degree programme does not include a period of study in the USA.

How to apply

First, complete the free application for federal student aid (FAFSA) online at studentaid.gov, ensuring you enter BU’s Federal School Code: G33503. Then send an email with your details to the BU Federal Student Aid Officer so that they can process your application. Submit your application at least one month before your course starts. BU begins processing applications in May for courses starting in September, and in November for courses starting in January. You must reapply for each academic year.

How realistic are your chances?

This is a loan scheme rather than a competitive scholarship, so there is no selection panel to choose the recipients. If you are a US citizen or a holder of a permanent residence permit, are enrolled on an eligible degree programme at BU and meet the federal criteria, you will generally receive the funding. The main exclusion criteria are an ineligible degree programme or an internship in the US. You should therefore check these points well in advance and submit your application in good time to avoid any delays.