Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans are federal student loans offered by the Department of Education to assist students with the cost of college related expenses. These loans accrue interest, and you must begin to repay after you graduate or stop attending school at least half-time (6 credits). Eligible students must have submitted a FAFSA application and be enrolled in a minimum of 6 (program required) credits.

Federal Direct Subsidized Loans

Direct Subsidized Loans are federal loans available to students with financial need as demonstrated by the FAFSA application. The Department of Education pays interest on these loans while the student is enrolled in school at least half time (6 credits). Upon leaving school or enrolling in less than half time (6 credits), there is a six-month grace period, after this time, interest accrued must be paid by the student.

Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans

Direct Unsubsidized Loans are federal loans available to students regardless of financial need. Interest begins accruing as soon as the loan has been disbursed and the student is responsible for all interest from the start of the loan.

How to Apply

1. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

2. Complete Entrance Counseling (required to complete once, the first time you borrow loans at BTC)

3. Complete the Master Promissory Note (required to complete the first time you borrow and is good for 10 years)

4. Complete a BTC Loan Request

A parent of a dependent student can borrow money on the student's behalf to help pay for college related expenses. To be eligible, students must first complete a FAFSA application, and the parent cannot have adverse credit history (a credit check will be completed at the time of application). The maximum PLUS loan amount that can be borrowed is the allotted cost of attendance minus and other financial aid received, such as scholarships, grant funding, etc. To receive a PLUS loan, parents must apply online through FSA and complete a BTC PLUS loan application.

Private loans are another alternative loan option; however, they often have higher interest rates than Federal Direct Loans. To receive a private loan, complete a BTC Private Loan form after independently choosing a lender and completing their application process.

IonTuition is a student loan counseling management system that will guide you through various repayment plans. Here you can manage all your federal student loans in one place, all you need to do is create an account. IonTuition is available to you for free from Bellingham Technical College.  Once you create an account you will experience stress free student loan repayment management and can access the help of live expert student loan counselors.  The counselors are available to answer all your student loan repayment questions in a professional and supportive environment. To create your free account sign up here. 

Entrance Counseling – Required counseling to ensure you understand the terms and conditions of your loan.

Master Promissory Note – Required document in which you promise to repay your loan(s) and any accrued interest and fees.

Exit Counseling – Required to be completed when you leave school or drop below half-time enrollment.

Loan Management Services – IonTuition

BTC Loan Forms – Internal application or form required for each loan type