International Student Loan Options

When borrowing a loan in the U.S., international students should consider the following:

  • Interest rate terms (ie: fixed or variable)
  • Fees
  • Repayment incentives for the borrower
  • Total cost
  • Deferment and forbearance options
  • Repayment timelines and flexibility

A list of lenders who responded to the University’s Request for Information and offer private educational loans to international students may be found through the University’s Student Financial Service’s site. Harvard graduate and professional students are not required to use the lenders on this list.

Kindly be aware that several of these loan options come with both annual and lifetime limits. Approval from multiple lenders is not guaranteed, and it’s crucial to inform each lender if you intend to apply with multiple institutions to prevent any adverse effects on your loan application. Furthermore, it’s advisable to explore loan opportunities in your home country.

Please take note of the following important guidelines and information regarding your loan application process:

  1. Failure to complete the loan application process with your chosen lender may result in our office reducing or canceling your private loan(s).
  2. Any alterations to your loan will be promptly communicated to the Admissions Office by our office.
  3. Canceling your loan mid-way renders the previously provided award information unusable for your visa application’s financial certification, as you have not secured the loan funding originally included in your total funding.
  4. To secure your Certification of Funding Form (FCIS), you must demonstrate personal or outside funding sources to cover the difference between your total financial aid and the required amount for visa processing.
  5. Depending on your loan amount, you may be obligated to complete a loan entrance document.

 

Note: The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, like all of Harvard University, has no financial interest in your choice of lender.