# Parent Loans

**Source**: https://college.harvard.edu/financial-aid/how-aid-works/types-aid/parent-loans
**Parent**: https://college.harvard.edu/financial-aid/how-aid-works/types-aid

## Federal Direct PLUS Loans

PLUS loans are federal loans that parents of dependent undergraduate students can use to help pay education expenses. The U.S. Department of Education makes Direct PLUS Loans to eligible borrowers through our participation in the Direct Loan Program. Borrowers must apply and qualify for the PLUS loan annually.

### Federal Direct PLUS Loans

- #### Parent PLUS Loan Details
- #### Application Instructions
- #### What If I'm Denied?
- #### Changes to 2026-2027 PLUS Loans

## Private Loans

We encourage parents and students to look into federal and institutional loan options first, before borrowing a private educational loan. Most private education loans have the student as the primary borrower and a parent as a co-borrower. If you are considering a private education loan, you should compare offers from several different lenders in order to choose the best fit for your family.

[Choosing a Private Loan](https://college.harvard.edu/financial-aid/how-aid-works/types-aid/parent-loans/private-education-loans)