Alternative Student Loan Program

Virginia Highlands Community College participates in the Alternative Student Loan Program. Alternative loans, also called private loans, are offered by lending institutions as an additional source of funds for higher education. These funds are not part of the federal government loan programs; VHCC does not participate in the Stafford or Plus student loan programs.

An alternative loan is a good option only after all other financial aid sources have been exhausted.

Loan applicants are required to:

1. complete a FAFSA
2.  be enrolled in at least 6 credits
3.  be admitted to a program of study
4. complete the loan application online to the lender of choice

To determine the best lender for your needs, consider the annual percentage rate (APR), co-signer requirements, loan fees, loan limits, repayment period, income to debt ratio, and grace period offered. For more information concerning these loans, please contact the lender. VHCC does not suggest a specific lender for your loan application process nor do we endorse one lender over the other.

Listed below are only a few lenders that VHCC students have chosen to use in the past. Please choose a lender that best meets your individual needs and borrow only what you need. Remember, the lenders listed are only for your convenience; you may choose any lender that offers educational loans.

SallieMae - Signature Student Loan for Community Colleges
Campus-Door Alternative Loan
Eastman Credit Union


Still have questions? Contact Carolyn Bales at cbales@vhcc.edu