[Shawnee123]

Razz, are you looking at Stafford loans? You don't need a co-signer, there's no credit check, and the rate is fixed by the feds. Alternative, or private, loans are another animal altogether. Also, a student who gets no "free" grant money will have eligiblity for federal Stafford loans because eligibility is based on Cost of Attendance versus aid received. You should have no problem getting a stafford loan, and most schools have a listing of lenders who they have worked with in the past; many students don't use their local bank. Of course, you can use whatever lender you choose, you would just give the lender code to the FA department.

Since every school does things a little differently you should go online to your school or contact their FA department to see what their steps are. Stafford loans are based on the FAFSA, so you would have to complete that process, but it's a better deal and you should exhaust that possibilty first due to the many benefits of the program (one of them being the deferrment while you are attending school, and the 6 month grace period once you finish or cease attending.)

I should add that it can be a lengthy process, especially if you have not begun the FAFSA process; many schools offer a payment plan and if you are eligible you will basically be reimbursing yourself at a later date. This is high processing time, so it can take some time...but I believe it to be worth it.

PM me if I can help in any way.