Before & After Graduation - Before You Graduate
As you are approaching graduation, the financial aid office will be reaching out to you to complete your Exit Counseling. Much like the Entrance Counseling, it is s required before you withdraw, graduate or drop below half-time attendance (even if you plan to transfer to another school).
It will explain your rights and responsibilities as a student loan borrower and provide useful tips and information to help you manage your loans. Depending on the school, the Exit Counseling may be done online or in person. Take the time to ask questions to fully understand the repayment process.
You will also need to select your repayment plan. There are several types of repayment plans offered by the federal government. Take the time to review each plan, consider your loan date, goals, and current situation and select a plan that best suits your needs. Your plan can be changed as you continue in repayment and as life and your needs change. Take advantage of the flexibility.
To stay on top of your loans, get familiar with the National Student Loan Database System (NSLDS). NSLDS provides student borrowers a place to be able to view all federal loans received. It will also indicate the servicer for each loan.
Here is a checklist to follow before you graduate and leave school.
