Federal Loans

Eligible law students may use federal student loans to help finance the cost of their legal education. Eligibility for federal student aid is determined through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Federal loan programs, eligibility requirements, borrowing limits, interest rates, and repayment options are established by the federal government and may change. Students should review current information from Federal Student Aid and work with the University of South Carolina Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships to understand the federal loan options available to them.

Please note: Beginning July 1, 2026, federal loan rules for graduate and professional students changed, including the availability of Grad PLUS loans and federal borrowing limits. Some continuing students may qualify for transitional provisions based on their enrollment and prior borrowing history.Click here to learn more about your options. 

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Private Loans

Private education loans may be another option for students who need additional funding. Private loans are offered by private lenders, and terms, interest rates, eligibility requirements, and repayment options vary by lender.

Students considering private loans should carefully compare their options and understand the terms and conditions before borrowing.

Click here for a list of previous loan providers utilized by  students at the University of South Carolina.

Financial Education and Planning Resources

Understanding your options for financing law school is an important part of planning for your legal education. AccessLex Institute offers free financial education tools and resources designed specifically for aspiring and current law students.

    Resources include:

• MAX by AccessLex – a personal finance program designed specifically for law students.
• AccessConnex by AccessLex – free, one-on-one financial counseling with Accredited Financial Counselors.
• AccessLex Student Loan Calculator – a tool for exploring student loan borrowing and repayment options.
• AccessLex Scholarship Databank – a searchable database of scholarship opportunities for law students and prospective law students.
• Free webinars and events covering topics ranging from budgeting and financing legal education to loan repayment and Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

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Questions?

All federal student loan and work-study programs are administered by the University's Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships.