University of South Florida: Financial Aid

Stafford Loan Periods

2008-2009 Aid Year
(Fall 2008, Spring 2009, Summer 2009)

Fall 2008: 08/25/08- 12/12/08
Spring 2008: 01/05/09 - 05/01/09
Summer 2008: 05/11/09 - 08/07/09

The Loan Process

USF initiates the loan process and does all processing electronically. Check your award notice each year after you are awarded to see if you have loans.

Before we can receive funds and disburse them to you:

Apply by completing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Accept, Decline, or Reduce your loan amounts through OASIS after you are awarded.
Check OASIS to see if an Entrance Interview is listed under your “Unsatisfied Requirements.”* www.usf.edu/oasis
Choose a lender and complete a Stafford Lender Preference form if this is your first time borrowing at USF. Check OASIS to see if a Stafford Lender Preference is listed under your “Unsatisfied Requirements.”

The lenders on the list below are recommended because they succesfully utilize our electronic processing procedures.
These lenders were selected based on information from a survey; a history of being responsive to processing needs; and a record of few problems for students or our office.
You may choose a lender that is not on this list, just be sure to check if they process loans electronically and disburse funds by way of Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT); paper checks slow the delivery of funds to you.

Complete the Master Promissory Note (MPN) if this is your first time borrowing at USF. Most lenders offer electronic MPNs. If you choose a lender from the list below, a link to the MPN is provided.

*Visit our tutorials page if you need help navigating OASIS, choose your area of interest and a short tutorial will run automatically.

Recommended Lender List & Links To Electronic Master Promissory Notes

Lenders are selected by a review panel comprised of financial aid professionals, graduate and undergraduate students, and members of the Student Government Association.

These lenders are recommended because they utilize our electronic processing procedures to speed the delivery of loan proceeds. You are not required to use one of these lenders. There are many things to consider when choosing a lender, here are a few:

Consider the borrower benefits and which are best for you personally. Check the lender's website for the most current and comprehensive borrower benefits.
Do you prefer to benefit now or during repayment? Reflect on your own consumer habits when considering what is best for you.
Check with the lender to see if the benefits hold true if you consolidate your loans after graduation.
Does it matter to you who services your loan i.e. who answers your questions if you have issues or concerns with borrowing or repayment?