Occupational Therapy

Washington University Loan Information

Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford loans, Federal Direct Graduate Plus loans and/or Private loans are available to students who qualify based on completion of the financial aid application and other required documents. Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans are awarded by the Financial Aid Office (other loans may require additional applications).

OT health fair

Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan

With a complete financial aid application, a graduate student can be eligible to receive up to $20,500 annually.

Direct Unsubsidized loans are currently 8.08% for the 2024-2025 aid year for loans disbursed between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025 and have an origination fee of 1.057% that is subtracted from the loan at the time of disbursement for loans disbursed before October 1, 2025. The loan rate is fixed for the life of each loan; however, the fixed rate is set on July 1 of each year.

The Direct loan has a 6-month payment free grace period once you graduate or cease to be enrolled at least 1/2 time status. There are numerous repayment options starting at 10 years up to 25* years. Income based repayment options are also available to those who qualify.
*based on total debt load.

Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan

If you borrow the maximum Direct Unsubsidized loan, you may apply for a Direct PLUS loan. This loan is currently 9.08% for the 2024-2025 aid year for loans disbursed between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025 and have an origination fee of 4.228% that is subtracted from the loan at the time of disbursement for loans disbursed before October 1, 2025. The loan rate is fixed for the life of each loan; however, the fixed rate is set on July 1 of each year.

The PLUS loan has a no annual maximum; the amount is based on the remaining cost of attendance eligibility within a student’s budget.

Federal PLUS loans are based on overall good credit standing; therefore, you must apply online at Studentaid.gov. The credit check is valid for 180 days; therefore, please be aware of your academic start time.

NON Federal Loan Options

Alternative / Private Student loans will require a credit check and possibly a co-borrower to maximize the best possible interest rate. The loan terms and conditions are based on you and your co-borrowers credit score and the specific loan product you select from that private lender. Our office has provided a historical list of lenders that provide healthcare specific loan programs. On the FASTChoice portal you can review, compare, and even apply online using any one of those lenders.

PLEASE NOTE: It is not the University’s position to recommend or endorse any particular lender. Select the terms and conditions that best suit your individual needs. For more information regarding alternative/private student loans, please visit FinAid.org and/or contact our office for more information.

Assistantships

All assistantships are awarded directly by the OT program. All applicants to the program are automatically considered for graduate assistantships. The number of assistantships offered varies annually; these awards are often based on current program research and practice activities, available funding. Teaching Assistantships are available to OTD students in their third year. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your eligibility please speak with your department coordinator.

Occupational Therapy Merit Scholarships

All scholarships are awarded as tuition remission and are determined by the OT program. Some scholarships have a specific application. The OT department will notify our office of your scholarship(s) and we will add the information to your award notification letter.

Federal Work Study

FWS is a program that is awarded jointly by the OT program and the Financial Aid Office. Your student eligibility is determined and based on your need level from your FAFSA form.

Federal Loan Information

Types of Federal Aid

Studentloans.gov

OT Financial Aid Information

Scholarship and Financial Assistance

Outside/Private Scholarships Opportunities

American Occupational Therapy Association

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