Education Loan Application Steps

1. Submit an Online Loan Application. When you submit your application, you will receive a preliminary Interest Rate Notice (PIRN) that provides term and rate information. If you have a cosigner, please ensure they complete their part of the application in a timely manner.

2. Apply for membership¹, if you are not an existing Harvard FCU member. This step must be completed in order to advance your application. Click here to join Harvard FCU.

Due to the cooperative banking structure of credit unions, you must be an Harvard FCU member to obtain a loan. Please visit harvardfcu.org/membership to learn about membership, and to submit an online application. Pay close attention to notifications from Harvard FCU in case we need more information for your account. Applications take 2-3 business days to process.

3. Upload Supporting Documentation. This may include identification and income documentation (if applicable), as well as other requested documents. Please check your online account for specific documentation requirements.

4. Configure your Loan. Once all provided documentation has been processed, you will receive an e-mail instructing you to log into your online account to select your repayment options.

5. Sign your Loan Documents. Your loan documents will be generated for signature for you and your cosigner (if applicable) after you configure your loan. Signing and submitting documents electronically will expedite the loan process.

6. School Certification. Once your application is finalized, we will send a request for the school to certify the loan and set the disbursement date(s). The school will review the requested amount, determine eligibility, and set the disbursement dates for the loan.

7. Review your Final Disclosure, which includes the final terms of your loan. You will receive a notification when your disclosure is ready for review. You will have the option to waive your Final Disclosure Receipt period, which may expedite your loan disbursement.

8. Loan Disbursement. Funds will be sent directly to the school. Refunds and changes to loan amounts can be requested through the Financial Aid office.

Please Note: If you are unable to sign your documents electronically, you may sign your documents at a credit union branch by scheduling an appointment, or in the presence of a U.S. notary. Electronic copies will be accepted, and should be uploaded to your account for processing. One notary seal is required with proper acknowledgement of each document and signature.