Entrance Counseling Requirements and Information
Entrance Counseling is a mandatory information session that must be completed before you receive your first federal student loan. The session explains your rights and responsibilities as a student borrower and provides important information about managing student loans.
Who Must Complete Entrance Counseling?
Entrance Counseling is required if:
- You are borrowing through the Direct Loan Program for the first time.
- You have not previously received a loan through the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program.
You must complete Entrance Counseling before you can receive the funds from your first Direct Loan.
What You Will Learn
During Entrance Counseling, you will receive information about:
- What a Direct Loan is and how the loan process works
- Managing your education expenses
- Other financial resources that may help pay for your education
- Your rights and responsibilities as a borrower
How to Complete Entrance Counseling
To complete Entrance Counseling, visit the FSA - Entrance Counseling website.
Additional Information
- Entrance Counseling is valid for 7 years.
- If Entrance Counseling does not appear on your Financial Aid To-Do List as a required item, you are not required to complete it.
(Financial Aid > Loans)