We've outlined recommendations for applying for private student loans to help you walk through the process.

If you haven’t applied for financial aid through Bethel, contact a financial aid counselor before applying for a private loan.

It takes a minimum of 30 days from the date of application for a private loan to be processed and the loan funds to be disbursed by the lender.

1. Determine your loan amount.

   The maximum amount you can borrow is listed as " Private Loan (No Federal/SELF)" on your award letter.

2. Go to FASTChoice to compare private loans offered by our preferred lenders and apply online.

   Select a lender and complete the lender's online application and promissory note.  You will have a choice of the following lenders:

   • Bank of North Dakota: DEAL (Dakota Education Alternative Loan)
   • Charter One: TruFit Student Loan
   • Discover: Discover Student Loans
   • Minnesota Office of Higher Education:  SELF (Student Education Loan Fund)
   • Sallie Mae: Sallie Mae Smart Option Student Loan
   • Wells Fargo:
     • Wells Fargo Collegiate Loan (variable or fixed rate)
     • Wells Fargo MedCap Alternative Loan for Health Professionals
     • Wells Fargo Graduate Loan

     *Citibank is no longer a preferred lender. Citibank no longer offers the CitiAssist private student loan, and therefore, was removed from our lender list effective 12/28/2012.

   
   If you choose not to borrow from a preferred lender, please give us the name of the lender, the lender's phone number, the amount you requested and if the loan is for a particular term.  Contact your lender directly for application instructions.

3. Complete the loan process with your lender.

   All lenders will require a self-certification form, which they provide. Some will require proof of identity or income. All requested information must be given to your lender before your loan can be processed.
   
   It’s important that you’re actively involved in the loan process so your loan funds can be disbursed in a timely manner. Check your junk email to be sure you haven't missed any communication from your lender.