Canadian Student Loans for US Schools
For Canadians looking to expand their horizons, there are incredible educational opportunities in the United States. Although visa obligations don't apply, it's important to be mindful of tuition and living costs while studying in the US – but don't worry – International Student can help you secure the funds you need for an unforgettable education abroad.
Find My Student Loan
Financial Aid for Canadian Students Studying in USA
Start with Scholarships
Scholarships provide eligible international students with funds that they don't have to repay; given the nature of scholarships, it's a great place to start when looking for financial aid to study in the US. There are two categories of scholarships that we recommend you explore:
Fill the Gap with Student Loans
With Canadian citizens unable to access US government loans, private student loan organizations may be the best option for international students seeking financial assistance. That said, not all lenders work with international students, and each will have varying criteria regarding which universities they work with – so thorough research is essential when applying.
Shopping around for a student loan can be overwhelming. Before settling on the right option, make sure you have all the information to compare loans including:
- What’s included in fees and interest rates?
- Are there repayment incentives or flexible terms available?
Review your choices thoroughly so that you’re comfortable with every detail of your decision-making process.
Here are some of the main points to look for with a private student loan:
APR
Understanding the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) of your international student loan is essential to ensure you get the best rate. APR annualizes all the costs associated with borrowing including interest and additional fees. Comparing different loan options by APR can be a great way to reduce your borrowing costs and make sure you don't end up paying more money than you realize over the life of your loan. Do your research and make sure to ask as many questions as you need to feel comfortable with the loan you choose.
Repayment Period
It’s important to consider your international student loan's repayment start date if you take out a loan for your studies. You may need to start repaying the loan while you are still in school, so make sure you have a plan in place. Alternatively, some loans may offer deferred payment of the full amount, or partial amount, until after completion of your studies. Before signing paperwork, it’s worthwhile understanding what the repayment period requirements are and what potential penalties the institution might impose if you miss an agreed upon payment. Knowing these details upfront can help you build a plan to ensure that loan repayments can be made on time and efficiently.
Interest Rate
When considering taking out a loan, knowing the interest rate is key. Interest rates are expressed as a percentage and can either be variable or fixed. Variable interest rates can fluctuate based on economic conditions, so make sure you’re aware of the risks in choosing that option. A higher interest rate usually means higher payments, so it’s important to understand how an increase could affect your ability to pay back the loan. A fixed interest rate on the other hand will remain steady over time even if the market conditions change. Regardless of the type of interest rate you choose, understanding what interest is and how much you may be charged can help you finance your goals while staying financially secure.
Cosigner Requirements
Many international student loans will require that a borrower has a cosigner. Cosigners will need to meet specific eligibility requirements to join the loan application. If you do not have a cosigner you will want to use our loan search tool to see if there are no cosigner loans available to you.
Finding out which lenders will work for you as a Canadian citizen in the US can take hours of research, which is why we've created a loan search tool for students. To get started, visit the tool above, enter your basic information, and compare loans in seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Canadian student go to university in the U.S.?
Yes, Canadian students can go to university in the U.S. Some universities may require additional documents or proof of citizenship, so it is important to check the requirements for admission for each school.
Can a Canadian get a scholarship to an American university?
Yes, a Canadian can get a scholarship to an American university. Many American universities offer a variety of scholarships to international students. It is important to research the scholarship options available to you and to carefully review the application requirements.
Can I get a student loan to study in America?
Yes, you can get a student loan to study in America. There are a variety of private student loan options available to help finance your education.
Who is eligible for an international student loan in the U.S.?
International students who are enrolled in an eligible school in the U.S. may be eligible for an international student loan in the U.S. Some lenders require international students to have a U.S. cosigner.
How much study loan can I get to study in the U.S.?
The available loan amount for international students in the U.S. will vary depending on the school, the cost of attendance, and any other funds available to you.
Can I get OSAP to study in the US?
The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) provides financial aid to students usually residing in Ontario. Those studying at a public post-secondary institution in a different province in Canada are eligible for the full OSAP funding, while students attending an institution outside of Canada are able to receive up to 60% of the funding from the federal portion of OSAP.
Is FAFSA available for international students?
FAFSA is only available for U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and certain eligible non-citizens.
Use our loan search tool and see what student loans are available to Canadians like you.