Private Student Loans

Students have the option to borrow private loans directly from lenders to help finance the cost of their education. There are many options available so it is important to do some preliminary research and to know that all loans are not equal. Pay special attention to interest rates, fees, credit scoring, and co-signing requirements.

Before you look at private loans, make sure that you have exhausted all possibilities for federal financial aid loans. Exploring your options now may save you time and money in the future.

Suggested Private Lender List

Bar Study Loan Lender List

Why should I consider applying for a bar loan? 
Bar loans are intended to be used for expenses related to completing the bar exam. The cost of sitting for the Bar (usually a few hundred dollars) can be covered with a GradPLUS loan, as long as you are still enrolled. Living expenses and the cost of a bar review course can only be obtained from a private lender. Borrowing these loans might be a good option if you don’t have the funds available. 

How much am I eligible to borrow? 
Bar loan caps vary by lender (ranging from $15,000 - $16,000). 

Where can I find up-to-date interest rate information? 
Private loans have a variable interest rate that is usually tied to LIBOR or prime rate. Private lenders will not provide an interest rate offer until after you have applied for the loan. Further information about private loans is available at: www.finaid.org/loans/privateloan.phtml. 

How can I determine which loan is best for me? 
Interest rates and fees can vary by lender. For more information, please visit the following website: www.finaid.org/calculators/loananalyzer.phtml. This comprehensive website allows you to compute the various terms set by each lender, using their listed interest rate, fees, and repayment period. 

I have chosen a lender and know how much I want to borrow. What do I do now? 
Most lenders offer an online application process. In order to ensure proper processing, your application must be certified by the school before any lender will disburse funds. 

I have completed the loan application and have been approved. When will I receive the funds? 
Disbursement of bar loans is different from academic year loans. The bar loan check will be mailed to your current address. You get to choose the disbursement date/dates for the loan. It is a good rule of thumb that the total process takes two to three weeks from the time that you submit your application. 

How can I obtain a copy of my Credit Report? 
You can request a free copy of your credit report once every 12 months at www.annualcreditreport.com. Any of the following national credit bureaus will send you a copy for a small fee: 
Experian: 1-888-397-3742 
TransUnion: 1-800-888-4213 
Equifax Credit: 1-800-685-11112

Close Course Type Descriptions

Course Types

We have classified RWU Law classes under the following headers. One of the following course types will be attached to each course which will allow students to narrow down their search while looking for classes.

Core Course

Students in the first and second year are required to take classes covering the following aspects of the law—contracts, torts, property, criminal law, civil procedure, and constitutional law, evidence, and professional responsibility.  Along with these aspects, the core curriculum will develop legal reasoning skills.

Elective

After finishing the core curriculum the remaining coursework toward the degree is completed through upper level elective courses.  Students can choose courses that peak their interests or courses that go along with the track they are following.

Seminar

Seminars are classes where teachers and small groups of students focus on a specific topic and the students complete a substantial research paper.

Clinics/Externships

Inhouse Clinics and Clinical Externships legal education is law school training in which students participate in client representation under the supervision of a practicing attorney or law professor.  RWU Law's Clinical Programs offer unique and effective learning opportunities and the opportunity for practical experience while still in law school.