Overview
Loan repayment is required according to the terms and conditions outlined in your signed promissory note(s). You are responsible for beginning repayment once your designated grace period ends.
When Does the Grace Period Begin?
A grace period is a set amount of time after you leave school before you must begin making payments. Your grace period begins when you:
- Graduate
- Drop below half-time enrollment (less than six units)
- Withdraw from classes
- Do not attend UC San Diego for a quarter
Grace Period Duration by Loan Type
The length of your grace period depends on the specific loan program:
| Loan Program | Grace Period Length |
| Federal Direct Loan (Subsidized and Unsubsidized) | 6 Months |
| Federal Perkins Loan | 9 Months |
| University Loan | 9 Months |
| California Dream Loan | 6 Months |
Pre-payments and Early Repayment
You may pay all or part of your loan(s) at any time without penalty.
- Reducing Your Principal: Any amount you repay during the same academic year the loan originated will directly reduce the loan amount and is not considered a pre-payment.
- Excess Payments: If you pay more than the amount due, the excess will be applied to your principal balance unless you specifically designate it as an advance payment for your next scheduled installment.
- Deferment Eligibility: If you enroll at another institution of higher education, you may be eligible to defer your repayment.
Contact Information
For questions regarding your Campus-Based Loans, please contact:
- Student Financial Solutions (SFS): Submit a Ticket
- Heartland ECSI (University Billing Agent): Call (888) 549-3274