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SELF Loan Application Instructions

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Quick Tips

  • Apply for federal and state grants first. Completing the FAFSA is required before applying for a SELF Loan.
  • Once in the application, do not use your browser's back button. Use only the buttons within the application.
  • Enter information carefully. Certain errors, including your Social Security number and type of program, will require you to start a new application.
  • Allocate enough time to finish the application. Borrowers and co-signers should each allow at least 15 minutes to complete the initial application steps.
  • Watch for emails from the Minnesota Office of Higher Education (SELF Loan) containing important information. Email is the only way to access your application. Access links may expire, so always use the most recent email. Be sure to check your spam or junk folders.
  • Download and save all documents related to your SELF Loan, including your Application and Promissory Note (Credit Agreement).
  • Review the current SELF Loan Application and Solicitation Disclosure.
  • Aspire Servicing Center services the SELF Loan. Their name or logo will appear throughout the process.

Before You Begin

The application must be started by the student (borrower), not the co-signer. The borrower begins the process and then invites a co-signer during the application.

What you'll need:

  • Your Social Security number
  • Your Date of Birth
  • The name of the school you plan to attend (Note: If you change your school, you will need to start a new application)
  • A willing co-signer
  • Separate email addresses for the borrower and co-signer (recommended)

Application Flow

Here's a step-by-step overview of the SELF Loan application process:

  1. Start your application at selfloan.mn.gov/selfloan/apply
  2. Read and acknowledge the SELF Loan Guidance Statement
  3. Enter your personal information and invite a co-signer
    • Enter their email address directly into the application, or
    • Forward the co-signer invitation email you'll receive
  4. Sign the Application and Promissory Note (Credit Agreement)      
  5. Co-signer completes their portion:
    • If your co-signer is able to move beyond the credit check, they will be prompted to sign their Application and Promissory Note (Credit Agreement)
    • Ensure they upload their government ID before closing the application
    • If they do not complete the application, they'll receive a reminder in 3 days, or they can call SELF Loan to request a new access link
  6. SELF Loan staff reviews your application
  7. The application is sent to your school for certification
  8. Your school certifies the loan
  9. You will be prompted to:
    • Sign a Private Education Loan Applicant Self-Certification
    • Accept the Private Education Loan Approval Disclosure
  10. You will receive the Private Education Loan Final Disclosure

Need help? 

Contact the SELF Loan team at (651) 642-0567 or selfloan.ohe@state.mn.us. 

If you'd like a downloadable version of these instructions, right click anywhere on the screen, click Print, then choose Save as PDF.