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Welcome to islhelp.org

This site is intended for American graduate students who are applying (or wish to apply) for student loans to study abroad.

This site should also help undergraduate students get international student loans, but some of the details may be different. Hopefully this site will be able to help you with the loan process and perhaps give you some tips that will make your life easier.

As an international student, you are eligible for the following loans:
Stafford (FAFSA) - This is the site where you may submit your online Stafford loan application
IEFC - This is the site where you can get information about/apply for the International Student Loan Program (connected to International Education Finance Corporation and TERI)
SallieMae - This is a private loan company with higher interest rates

There are other private loan companies from which you may choose, but that information won't be available on this site for a few weeks.

If you have questions, please contact question@islhelp.org.

If you're scanning this page for keywords, here are some tips as to what this site contains:

SAR, EFC, FAFSA, State Guarantor, Loan Certification Form (LCF), Promissory Note, Lenders, International Education Finance Corporation (IEFC), International Student Loan Program (ISLP), TERI, Stafford, Cost of Attendance Letter.

Links list of some useful links

Student Loan Steps

  • Step #1 - Stafford
    You should apply for the Stafford because it offers the best interest rates and it is based on need, not credit.

    details

  • Step #1 - ISLP
    If you need funding in addition to Stafford, ISLP is probably your best bet.

    details

  • Step #1 - Sallie Mae
    Loans for students and parents, including this money saving option to fit any budget.

    details

  • Step #2 - Stafford
    At this point, there are a few scenarios that could develop.

    details

  • Step #2 - ISLP
    They will mail the Loan Certification Form (LCF) to your school.

    details

  • Step #2 - Sallie Mae
    Make sure the administrator faxes or mails that form back to the loan company.

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  • Step #3 - Stafford
    You may proceed to your chosen financial institution where you can pick up a Master Promissory Note.

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  • Step #3 - ISLP
    The only thing you must do is call about once a week until your check dispersal date comes up.

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  • Step #3 - Sallie Mae
    Keep bugging your loan company to ensure that you are getting the money you want.

    details