Stafford Loan Information & Application Process with Nellie Mae, Sallie Mae or National Education

Nellie Mae, Sallie Mae and National Education participate in this electronic application process and are also set up to have their disbursements sent to WCC electronically (EFT).

Required Information

Most information is personal information such as name, address, telephone, etc. The following information is also required:

• Your social security card, you will need be sure to use your correct social security number and your name as listed on your social security card
• Your driver's license number
• Name, address, phone number and relationship of 2 separate references. One should be a parent. Please note that only a parent or spouse can have the same address as you, do not use a roommate.

The Loan Application Process

1. Stafford Borrower Loan Confirmation Page
This page is hosted by our guarantor, NELA. This page will give WCC's Financial Aid Office information regarding which quarters you will be attending and how much you wish to borrow. Once you submit this page you will be prompted to complete Step 2, the Online Loan Entrance Counseling

2. Entrance Counseling for All Borrowers
This is required of all WCC borrowers. The process is completed online and you will be required to setup an account or use your existing account. If you have difficulties registering or logging into an existing account, please contact SallieMae's OpenNet Technical Services at 1-888-272-5543. Once you are logged in, complete the Online Loan Entrance Counseling,. This usually takes 20-30 minutes.

Although we receive an electronic notification, we also recommend that you print a copy of your results as proof of completion. Once this step is finished, you will be prompted to complete Step 3, the actual loan application (Master Promissory Note).

3. Loan Application (Master Promissory Note - MPN)
Finally, you will be directed to complete the actual Master Promissory Note (MPN). Be sure your name appears as shown on your social security card. Here you will select your lender and complete your references.

You will also need to choose either "e-signature" or "manual signature." You will then be prompted to print a copy of the MPN, which is a legal document for your records. If you choose "manual signature," you will need to print two copies of your MPN. Bring one original MPN (signed and dated) to WCC's Financial Aid Office, keep the second copy for your records.

Be sure to follow each step to completion. Your information is submitted to WCC electronically once you select the final "next" button. We will then complete an electronic certification.

What happens next?

• Please note, unless you choose "manual signature" there are no actual forms to submit to our office. The entire process is electronic.
• Once WCC's Financial Aid Office receives confirmation of each of the 3 steps, we can determine your loan eligibility.
• You will be sent a notification letter from the Financial Aid Office with your certified loan amount and the date we expect your first disbursement to be available. You will also receive a new or revised Award Notification indicating the quarterly loan amounts.
• You will be sent a notification letter regarding any known issues or problems regarding your loan or the application process.
• Your lender is resposible for sending disclosure information to you which includes information regarding loan fees, repayment information, etc.
• Funds cannot be disbursed before the 1st day of the quarter, even if you are in a class that starts earlier.
• If you are applying after the quarter has started, it can take 1½-2 weeks from the time you complete the final step until your loan funds are available.
• Funds will usually be sent to WCC electronically.

If you have any questions, please contact our office (360)383-3014 or email cboucharwhatcom.ctc.edu

Start the Stafford Loan Application Process for 2009-2010