Loans for Students
Most financial aid awards consist of scholarships, work-study and loans. The average total student indebtedness has ranged from $20,000 to $23,000 in recent years, which is about 50% below the national average.*
Federal Direct Loans
| Year of Study | Hamilton Loan Levels | Additional Unsubsidized Loans | Maximum Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freshman | $3,500 | $2,000 | $5,500 |
| Sophomore | $4,500 | $2,000 | $6,500 |
| Junior | $5,500 | $2,000 | $7,500 |
| Senior | $5,500 | $2,000 | $7,500 |
*International students, including Canadian citizens, may be awarded institutional loans at the Hamilton loan levels.
Additional Federal Loan Information
- Borrower must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.
- Subsidized loans do not begin accruing interest until after college graduation and for the 2024-25 academic year have a fixed interest rate of 6.533% with a 1.057% origination fee.
- Unsubsidized loans accrue interest upon disbursement and for the 2024-25 academic year have a fixed interest rate of 6.533% with a 1.057% origination fee.
- Repayment begins six months after the student graduates or drops below half-time enrollment.
- Hamilton awards loans as indicated in first column of chart. Depending on eligibility, additional unsubsidized loans may be borrowed to offset the family contribution.
- Loan proceeds will be credited directly to the student's account.
Student loan application requirements:
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Direct Loan Master Promissory Note
- Direct Loan Entrance Interview Counseling
- 2025-26 Hamilton College Direct Loan Request Form (login required)
For more information, please see financing options and loans for parents.
Contact
Office of Financial Aid
Office Location
Siuda House