Overseas Students

Did you know that you’re eligible to receive federal education loans for some or all of your education even if you’re studying abroad? As long as you’re a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen, and your educational institution is considered eligible by the U.S. Department of Education (ED), you should be able to receive federal loan funds for your education.

To make your travels as stress-free as possible, it’s a good idea to apply for financial aid early to ensure it is available before your tuition is due. Many non-U.S. schools are unfamiliar with the U.S. financial aid process, so allow extra time for your loan to be processed.

Financial Aid Process With a Non-U.S. School

Step 1: Contact your school’s international office or financial aid office

Follow any special instructions they may give you, and be sure to check that they meet the requirements for Title IV aid. If you’re not sure, call American Student Assistance^® (ASA) at 800.999.9080.

Step 2: Fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

You can find this form at www.fafsa.ed.gov.

– Find your school’s code on the FAFSA website to ensure it is eligible
– Do not enter your e-mail address as contact information on the FAFSA website. A Student Aid Report (SAR) received via e-mail may not have all the information your school needs to determine your eligibility for aid. You will need to request a copy of your SAR report through the mail, which you will need to mail to your school. You may also call 800.4.FEDAID (in the U.S. and Canada) or 319.337.5665 to request your 8-page SAR
– You will receive an 8-page SAR in the mail. Make a photocopy for your records and send the original to your school

Step 3: Fill out a Master Promissory Note (MPN) carefully and completely

Read your MPN thoroughly, as it contains important information about your loan as well as your rights and responsibilities.

– Send a copy of the MPN and the original of the SAR to your school
– Send the original copy of the MPN to ASA

What Happens Next

– Your school will determine your eligibility and will approve your loans if you are eligible
– Your school will notify you of your loan award. You will receive a Loan Disclosure Statement from ASA once your loan has been guaranteed
– If you have questions, contact ASA or your school’s financial aid or overseas study office