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College Access Loan (CAL)
The College Access Loan Program provides alternative educational loans to Texas students who are unable to meet the cost of attendance. The CAL may be used to cover part or all of the student's Expected Family Contribution (EFC). Students do not have to demonstrate financial need. However, the amount of federal aid for which you are eligible (regardless of whether actually accepted) must be deducted from the cost of attendance in determining the CAL amount.
Borrower
Student
Loan Eligibility
Students must:
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Texas Application for Student Financial Aid (TASFA)
- Be a Texas resident
- Register for Selective Service at sss.gov (male students only)
- Be enrolled at least half-time in:
- a course of study leading to an associate's, bachelor's, graduate, or higher degree; or an approved alternative educator certification program;
- Meet the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements set by the institution.
- Receive a favorable credit evaluation or provide a cosigner who has good credit standing and meets other requirements.
- Not exceed the manageable loan debt calculated by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. NOTE: Depending on the calculation, the loan could be reduced or canceled by the THECB after the loan eligibility has been certified by 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ.
- Be current (not more than 30 days delinquent) on any child support obligations (Texas Family Code, Title 5, Section 231.006)
How to Apply
Students may apply online at . The application process includes:
- A Solicitation Disclosure (must be signed)
- Student's Self-Certification form (must be completed and signed electronically or mailed to HHLoans).
- Loan Approval Disclosure Statement to be signed and returned after loan is approved.
Borrowing Limits
Students may borrow up to the amount of their full cost of attendance minus all other financial aid they are eligible for, including amounts not yet accepted.(No less than $100.00)
Interest Rate
Fixed 6.30% annual rate (effective August 1, 2024). Interest is not capitalized.
Repayment Information
Loans have a six-month grace period from the date a borrower ceases to be continuously enrolled as at least a half-time student at an eligible institution.
Postponements of loan repayment and income-sensitive or graduated repayment schedules are available.
Additional Information
If the College Access Loan is declined based on the credit inquiry, the borrower may update their application to include a credit worthy cosigner, or change cosigners. The cosigner will need to provide information on the loan application to authorize the credit inquiry.
Contact Information
For more information on the CAL, please call Borrower Services at 800-242-3062 or visit
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