Loans

Lamar State College Port Arthur provides emergency short-term loans. Short-term loans are awarded only during registration periods for the exact amount of tuition and fees based on the ability to repay the loan during the semester the loan was issued.

Federal Student Loans

Most students, regardless of their credit rating, qualify for a Federal Direct Stafford Loan that is subsidized by the U.S. government, are unsubsidized as determined by a student’s need. The program features a fixed interest rate for subsidized loans and unsubsidized loans for the school term. Rates are set by the US Department of Education (USED) and may vary. Check the Federal Student Aid website for current rates.

Qualified students can apply for additional money each year up to a total limit over the course of four years.

Undergraduate dependent students can borrow up to $5,500 for the first year up to a total limit of $31,000 during their time in school. Independent students can borrow up to $9,500 the first year with a final total of $57,500.

To qualify, students must submit a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form; have a financial need as determined by the College; be a U.S. citizen or national, permanent resident or eligible non-citizen; be enrolled or plan to attend at least half-time; and not be in default on any education loan or owe a refund on an education grant.

Before you receive your loan funds, you will be required to
• complete entrance counseling (https://studentaid.gov/entrance-counseling/), a tool to ensure you understand your obligation to repay the loan; and
• sign a Master Promissory Note (https://studentaid.gov/mpn/), agreeing to the terms of the loan.

Beginning in 2026-2027, the annual maximum of loan funds that you can receive may be prorated based on your enrollment.