A loan is a form of aid that must be repaid. Alternative loan programs are non-federal loans offered by various lending institutions to assist students in paying for their educational expenses. Often students borrow alternative loans after having exhausted all other forms of federal student aid, state aid, WSU aid and external scholarships. It is highly recommended students apply for federal student aid before applying for an alternative loan. Visit the Department of Education's Federal Aid First website.

Interest rates for alternative loans and loan repayment terms vary by lender, and eligibility often depends upon borrower or co-borrower's credit history. International students must have a credit-worthy co-borrower who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Visit FASTChoice - Alternative Loans for a list of alternative loan programs compiled by the Office of Financial Aid.