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Direct Graduate PLUS Loan

Approval for the Graduate PLUS Loan is not based on need, but on credit-worthiness. To apply for a Graduate PLUS Loan, all borrowers will apply online at studentaid.gov. MassArt will be notified if the student is approved for the loan. If approved, the student will be notified, and should then complete Entrance Counseling and the Master Promissory Note (if a first-time borrower, as described below).

To apply for the Graduate PLUS Loan online, please sign in to your Direct Loan account at studentaid.gov. To sign in to your Direct Loan account, you will need your FSA ID. 

Once you are signed in, click on "Apply for a Direct PLUS Loan".

Graduate students may apply for any PLUS Loan amount up to their Cost of Attendance, minus any other aid the student is receiving.

First-time Graduate PLUS Loan borrowers at MassArt must also complete two additional steps in order to finalize their loan application, as described below. Please note that you will need your FSA ID for this process.

  • Step 1: Entrance Counseling
    Entrance Counseling completely educates you about every aspect of the Graduate PLUS Loan program. The college will receive an electronic notification that you have completed the Entrance Counseling.
  • Step 2: Master Promissory Note
    New Graduate PLUS Loan borrowers must also complete a one-time Master Promissory Note (MPN), which covers each Graduate PLUS Loan that you borrow while enrolled at Massachusetts College of Art and Design.

To complete your Graduate PLUS Loan Entrance Counseling and Master Promissory Note (MPN) online, please sign into your Direct Loan account at studentaid.gov. To sign in to your Direct Loan account, you will need your FSA ID.

Once you are signed in, click on "Complete Loan Counseling". After completing the Entrance Counseling, click on "Complete Loan Agreement (MPN)" in the menu on the bottom of the screen.

  • Step 3: Review the Disclosure Statement
    Before the loan is disbursed, a disclosure statement will be sent to the borrower regarding the loan. A student may adjust the amount or even cancel the loan within 14 days of disbursement by contacting the Office of Student Financial Assistance at 617.879.7849.

Those who do not complete the loan application instructions will have their loan canceled. The Business Office will be notified and any estimated credit for the loan will be taken away.

Please note: if you are expecting a financial aid refund for living expenses or art supplies because your financial aid is greater than your school bill, you must be sure to complete these loan instructions prior to the start of the semester to receive your refund on time. The first refund of the semester will not be available generally until mid-October during the fall semester, and mid-March for the spring semester. This is due to a federal regulation that states that you are not entitled to all of your financial aid until 60% of the semester has passed. Please plan your finances accordingly.