FAQS
Many prospective MBA@UNC students have questions about our program and its admissions policies and procedures. We’ve listed some of the most common ones here.
If you need details and information not provided on this page, please feel free to contact us.
General FAQ
How is MBA@UNC different from other MBA programs?
How does the online MBA program compare with UNC’s other MBA formats?
How long will I take to complete my degree in MBA@UNC?
May I take electives or declare a concentration?
What’s required of students who take an MBA@UNC course?
Is MBA@UNC delivered completely online?
How much time should I expect to dedicate to MBA@UNC?
What type of career support is provided to MBA@UNC students?
Admissions FAQ
What are the requirements for admission?
Is an undergraduate degree required?
Can I request that my transcripts be sent electronically?
Are there any prerequisite courses?
What is required in the application?
Do you accept transfer credits?
Tuition, Billing Financial Aid and Military Benefits FAQ
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan
Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan
General FAQ
How is MBA@UNC different from other MBA programs?
MBA@UNC allows students around the world to earn UNC Kenan-Flagler’s top-ranked MBA online1. MBA@UNC features a rigorous curriculum that can be tailored to specific career goals, and students earn the same UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA degree as the on-campus programs. Courses are delivered in a live, virtual classroom by top UNC Kenan-Flagler faculty.
Our online MBA is designed for working professionals seeking to develop their leadership skills and build a global network who prefer the flexibility or learning style provided by a program primarily offered online.
Through the use of innovative technologies and real-world Summit experiences, MBA@UNC blends the flexibility of an online program with in-person networking opportunities and personalized learning.
How does the online MBA compare with UNC’s other MBA formats?
UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School offers a portfolio of degree formats that enable students with a range of backgrounds, objectives and scheduling requirements to access UNC Kenan-Flagler’s top-ranked MBA. Whichever program you choose to pursue, you’ll receive the same UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA degree.
Who will my classmates be?
Your MBA@UNC network will comprise global professionals living and working around the world.
We look for candidates with strong professional and academic backgrounds who can thrive in UNC’s collaborative, team-based environment. We apply the same rigorous admissions standards to MBA@UNC that we require of our other MBA programs.
When will classes begin?
A new class begins each quarter in July, October, January and April. Visit our website for cohort start dates and application deadlines.
How long will it take to complete my degree in MBA@UNC?
Students who take two courses per quarter will complete the program in 24 months. Students have the flexibility to complete the program in as few as 18 or as many as 36 months.
May I take electives or declare a concentration?
Almost half (45 percent) of your credits are electives. While we emphasize a strong core curriculum, we offer more than 25 electives, allowing you to customize your experience, and focus on the areas and skills you want to strengthen.
For students who want to specialize in a particular business area, we also offer six concentrations:
- Data Analytics and Decision Making
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- Management and Leadership
- Marketing
- Strategy and Consulting
Learn more about concentrations.
What’s required of students who take an MBA@UNC course?
Each course is designed and delivered by a UNC Kenan-Flagler professor and requires:
- Preparation outside of class, including teamwork and assignments that may include readings, cases, projects and papers.
- Lectures and delivery of new information in an asynchronous format.
- Weekly virtual meetings in a synchronous format. This may include case discussions, role plays, breakout groups and other discussions to drive learning.
- Quarterly three-day Summits. Students will be responsible for completing all coursework for the Summits and are required to attend at least two over the duration of the program.
Is MBA@UNC delivered completely online?
Though classes and course work are completed online, students are required to complete at least two in-person Summits during their time in the program. These three-day, intensive experiences—held on-campus and around the world—present opportunities for leadership development, career planning, peer networking and exposure to local business environments.
Room, board and program costs for four Summits are included in the MBA@UNC tuition. Students are responsible for their own travel expenses.
How much time should I expect to dedicate to MBA@UNC?
This is a rigorous program for highly-motivated professionals. In addition to the weekly synchronous class sessions, expect to dedicate approximately 10 hours per week per class for study time, preparation and asynchronous sessions.
What type of career support is provided to MBA@UNC students?
We’ve been delivering our MBA online since 2011, so we understand how to help working professionals—current students and alumni—achieve their most ambitious career goals.
With scheduling options that minimize the days you spend out of the office, practical learnings you can apply to your job right away, personalized coaching services and coursework you can complete at your own pace from anywhere, our online format makes it possible to maintain your income and accelerate your professional momentum while you earn your degree.
Once you’ve graduated, you’ll continue to receive 1:1 coaching services—tailored to your needs and interests as your career evolves. You will also be able to take UNC Kenan-Flagler courses for a reduced fee, giving you new opportunities to refine your skills, explore new interests and update your knowledge.
Learn more about Career Management and Leadership Development.
Get Started with a #1-Ranked Online MBA From UNC Kenan-Flagler
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Admissions FAQ
What are the requirements for admission?
UNC Kenan-Flagler seeks students whose academic background, professional experience and leadership abilities meet the rigorous demands of our top-ranked program—regardless of the format they choose. We look for candidates with strong professional and academic backgrounds who can thrive in our collaborative, team-based environment.
Is work experience required?
We require MBA@UNC applicants have a minimum of two years professional work experience. We value advanced degrees, but they are not a substitute for work experience.
Is an undergraduate degree required?
Students must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university. International candidates must have a college-level education equivalent to an American undergraduate or baccalaureate degree (the same as a first university degree). Generally this is a 4-year degree.
There are a number of universities around the world that offer 3-year undergraduate programs. If you received a bachelor’s degree upon completion of one of these 3-year undergraduate programs, you are eligible to apply to our program.
Do I have to take the GMAT?
MBA@UNC’s testing requirement is based on the applicant’s number of years of professional full-time work experience as a general policy. However, the Admissions Committee will consider online student GMAT waiver requests on a case-by-case basis.
Please note that no GMAT/GRE waiver is automatic and an approved waiver request does not guarantee admission to the program.
To learn more about requesting a waiver, visit our GMAT/GRE Waiver Policy.
Our school code for the GMAT is D40.HL.07. Our code for the GRE is 0024. TOEFL External link , IELTS External link or PTE Academic External link is required for applicants for whom English is not the native language. Our school code for these tests is 5816. You do not need to submit a TOEFL, IELTS or PTE score if:
- You earned an undergraduate or graduate degree at a U.S. college or university
- You total education was conducted in English in a native English-speaking country
- You earned an undergraduate degree or graduate degree from India. We will request test scores from some Indian candidates as needed
Can I request that my transcripts be sent electronically?
Many schools issue transcripts electronically, either through their own web services or through vendors. If this option is available through the institutions you attended, please specify that your transcript(s) be sent to appsvcs@onlinebusiness.unc.edu or select University of North Carolina, Online MBA if listed as an option through a vendor. This will expedite the delivery of your transcript(s) and the completion of your application.
Is an interview required?
An interview is required for admission into the program. Interviews will be conducted via video conference, using a basic webcam like the type integrated into most laptop computers.
Are there any prerequisite courses?
Although no specific prerequisite courses are required to apply to MBA@UNC, basic business knowledge is required. You will need to understand standard accounting, statistics, finance, and economics principles. You also need to be proficient in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel.
What is required in the application?
The application for MBA@UNC is available for completion online. In addition to basic information, you will be required to submit essays, professional recommendations, all undergraduate and graduate school transcripts and your test scores. The online application instructions will guide you through this process, and our Admissions Counselors are available to answer your questions.
Do you accept transfer credits?
All UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA programs require students to complete the entire program; transfer credits are not accepted.
Get Started with a #1-Ranked Online MBA From UNC Kenan-Flagler
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Tuition and Billing
How much does the MBA@UNC Online Graduate program cost?
Tuition is based on the number of credits for which you register. Current tuition rates can be found on the Tuition & Financial Aid page.
How much is the enrollment deposit, and when is it due?
Admitted applicants will be required to submit a $1,500 non-refundable enrollment deposit to reserve a space in the program. Enrollment deposits will be applied as a credit toward the first quarter’s tuition once the student enrolls in the program.
Will I know the amount of my financial aid award before I have to submit an enrollment deposit?
We hope to provide you with full financial aid information as soon as possible; however, the process may not be complete prior to the enrollment deposit deadline. U.S. and permanent residents should be eligible to borrow the maximum Federal Direct Loan amounts, provided they meet the basic eligibility requirements. Students can also review the additional loan options to determine the best program for covering the remaining amount of their estimated cost of attendance. International applicants are not eligible for Federal student loans.
How is tuition billed?
Tuition bills are processed through the UNC Cashier’s Office; however, any specific questions about your tuition charges should be directed to the MBA@UNC Registrar or the MBA@UNC Financial Aid Office.
- Tuition is billed on the 15th of the month prior to each quarter.
- Tuition is due on the second Tuesday of the month that each quarter starts.
- Financial aid is disbursed directly to the Cashier’s Office and student loan funds will be credited directly toward any outstanding tuition balance due.
Billing schedule example:
Quarter | Bill Sent | Payment Due On |
---|---|---|
July | Early July | 2nd Tuesday in August |
October | Mid-September | 2nd Tuesday in October |
January | Mid-December | 2nd Tuesday in January |
April | Mid-March | 2nd Tuesday in April |
How do I view my bill?
Enrolled students and Authorized Users will receive email notification when bills are available in the ConnectCarolina Student Center.
What are the accepted forms of payment?
The payment system is generally available 7 days a week, except for certain processing times which vary.
- Payments from your checking account
- Must be drawn from a U.S. bank.
- No fee when paying with this option.
How to find your account number or routing number.
- Credit/Debit card payments
- We accept American Express, Discover, MasterCard and Visa.
- There is a 2.85% or minimum $3.00 non-refundable transaction fee to use credit/debit cards.
Additional information can be found on the UNC University Cashier page.
How does my employer go about paying the school?
A third-party sponsor is a government agency, embassy, or private company that pays all or a portion of a student’s invoice directly to the university. Upon receipt of a billing authorization from the payer and a FERPA form from the student, we will bill the third party approximately two weeks after classes start for each term. Since we generate hundreds of these bills, it can take several weeks to send all of them.
Upon receipt of the authorization, the specific charges to be paid by the sponsor will be deferred, and a sponsored service indicator will be placed on your Student Account. Once the drop/add period has ended, the Cashier’s Office will bill your sponsor for the items they have agreed to pay.
Sponsors are expected to remit payment within 30 days of the billing date on the invoice. Payments can be made either by a check made payable to UNC-CH or online as an electronic funds transfer.
The student remains responsible for ensuring that their account is paid in full. Students will continue to receive bills until the third party pays, and the account is paid in full. View the UNC University Cashier page for full instructions.
Are payment plan options available for online students?
UNC offers several options for students to make a payment towards tuition. See all available payment methods.
What are the consequences if my tuition bill is not paid when classes begin?
In accordance with state law, payment for tuition and fees is due prior to the start of the term. Students registering in the billing period must pay tuition and fees or defer their bill in the Student Center by the due date noted on the bill. Accounts not paid or deferred by the due date may result in cancellation of registration. Past due prior term balances cannot be deferred or paid with financial aid for future terms.
Students expecting financial aid, departmental funding or other third-party support may request deferment of their term bill that is due prior to the start of each term. Deferments requests must be submitted by the due date on the first bill of each semester.
If I’m eligible to receive a refund, what is the process?
Details on the refund process are listed on the UNC University Cashier Student Accounts page.
What is the Title IV Authorization?
Federal Financial Aid is subject to strict guidelines as described below. This aid is intended to pay current tuition, fees, and certain other costs of attendance. Students must explicitly grant permission for the Cashier’s Office to apply federal financial aid to these other charges, like campus health charges, library fines, etc.
Log in to the Student Center through Self Service in ConnectCarolina, select “View Permissions” from the drop-down menu in the Student Financials section. Click on “Grant Permission” then follow the instructions. For additional information on Title IV Authorization, visit the UNC University Cashier Financial Aid page.
Who can I contact at UNC for billing and payment questions?
The Cashier’s Office receives a very high number of calls, so please consider emailing your inquiry (including your PID) to cashier@unc.edu for faster service. Responses to email inquiries are generally made by email within one business day.
Visit the UNC University Cashier Contact page for an email address dedicated to particular issues.
UNC Student Portal
What is the UNC student portal?
The UNC student portal is ConnectCarolina. Your ConnectCarolina account includes access to academic records, billing, financial aid, direct deposit set up, and more. You will need your UNC ID and password to log into ConnectCarolina.
How do I set up my UNC ID and Password?
To access CarolinaConnect, you will need an ONYEN (Only Name You’ll Ever Need). You will receive access upon submitting your enrollment deposit. For Instructions on setting up your ONYEN and password please visit our onyen services page.
When will I get access to my UNC User Account?
To access ONYEN (Only Name You’ll Ever Need). You will receive access upon submitting your enrollment deposit.
How do I set up my UNC email address?
Your UNC email account is where you’ll receive information about financial aid, orientation, and other key updates. It is very important to make sure your email address listed in Connect Carolina is correct. This is the address main campus will use to send bills, financial aid information and general UNC alerts. If you use a smartphone to check your email, we recommend you connect your UNC email to your phone’s inbox. For instructions click here.
STEP 1: Log into selfservice.unc.edu using your ONYEN and Password. Don’t have your ONYEN yet? Click here for setup instructions.
STEP 2: Click on “Email Sign-Up” on the left hand menu to set up your UNC email account, create an easy-to-remember alias, and change your password.
STEP 3: Check your email by visiting heelmail.unc.edu.
Financial Aid at UNC
Does UNC offer internal scholarships to online students?
Many private organizations and government programs offer fellowships, grants, and scholarships that can help you fund your degree. UNC’s Funding Information Portal organizes these resources and offers a convenient way for you to research these opportunities. Start your research early to give yourself the best chance of receiving an award.
In the past, UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA students have received funding from these organizations and programs.
- Prospanica (formerly known as the National Society Hispanic MBAs)
- The Robert Toigo Foundation
- Barclays Inspiring Excellence Fellowship
- Edmund S. Muskie Graduate Fellowship
- The Kinesis Scholarship (for residents of Puerto Rico).
For additional information please visit the UNC Scholarships and Student Aid page.
Are there UNC specific supplemental financial aid forms I need to complete?
No, UNC does not require school specific supplemental forms. If you are a new student, and are planning to apply for federal student aid, you will need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), Entrance Counseling and the Loan Agreement Master Promissory Note (MPN) on the Federal Student Aid website.
Do I need to include my social security number (SSN) in my application for admission to be eligible for aid?
Yes, you will need to include your SSN in your application for admissions, in order for UNC to retrieve your FAFSA from the federal database.
What are my financing options?
Fellowships: Merit fellowships will be awarded to a limited number of students in each entering class at MBA@UNC.
How do I apply for a fellowship?
Your application for admission serves as the application for fellowships. There is no separate application for these awards.
How would a fellowship affect my loan eligibility?
A student’s fellowship amount will reduce overall tuition balance and is normally credited equally over all payments. The reduction to the tuition amount proportionally reduces the student’s loan eligibility.
Corporate sponsorship: Some companies provide employees with an educational benefit, whereby they pay all or part of tuition expenses. Preparing a request for corporate support might help to gain support. We are happy to share information and guidance to help you make such a request.
Veterans benefits: MBA@UNC is an approved program for students receiving military education benefits.
Student loans: Federal student loans are available to US Citizens and Permanent Residents. UNC Kenan-Flagler has a student loan officer who provides dedicated assistance to applicants. International applicants are not eligible for Federal student loans. Learn more about student loans at MBA@UNC.
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans
Credit Requirements:
None, but students must meet eligibility requirements as determined by the FAFSA.
Interest Rate:
5.28% fixed*
Origination Fee:
1.057%**
Annual Maximum:
$20,500
Grace Period:
6 months
Repayment Method:
10 to 25 years. Several repayment plans available
Income-Driven Repayment Options:
Yes
Possible Loan Forgiveness or Cancellation:
Yes
Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans
Credit Requirements:
Good credit history or no credit history (no delinquent accounts or bankruptcy on credit report).
Interest Rate:
6.28% fixed*
Origination Fee:
4.228%**
Annual Maximum:
Financial aid budget minus all other financial aid.
Grace Period:
6 months
Repayment Method:
10 to 25 years. Several repayment plans available
Income-Driven Repayment Options:
Yes
Possible Loan Forgiveness or Cancellation:
Yes
Private Loans
Credit Requirements:
Lenders may require students to have a particular credit score to be approved without a co-borrower.
Interest Rate:
Fixed or variable and is normally based on either the Prime Rate or LIBOR.
Origination Fee:
Varies, but normally none.
Annual Maximum:
Financial aid budget minus all other financial aid.
Grace Period:
6 to 9 months
Repayment Method:
10 to 25 years, depending on the lender
Income-Driven Repayment Options:
No
Possible Loan Forgiveness or Cancellation:
No
What federal student aid is available to graduate students?
The federal student aid graduate students are eligible to apply for include the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan and the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan. Learn more about the types of federal student aid.
Why are graduate students not eligible for the Federal Pell Grant or the Federal Subsidized Loan?
The Department of Education awards Federal Pell Grants and Direct Subsidized Loans to eligible undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need and have not yet completed their bachelor’s degrees. The Department of Education does not evaluate need or income for loans at the graduate or professional level. Therefore, graduate students are not eligible for the Federal Pell Grant nor the Direct Subsidized Loan.
Are there academic standards I must meet to continue to receive federal student aid?
Yes, you must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress to remain in good standing with the program.
What is the minimum number of credits required to receive federal student aid?
Students must be registered at 4.5 credit hours per term to receive federal student aid.
Do I have to be full-time to receive financial aid?
No, but in order to be eligible for federal loan funding, students must be enrolled in at least 4.5 credits per university semester. Please note that two quarters (July/October and January/April) are the equivalent to one university semester.
What are private loans?
Private education loans are offered by private lenders to help students bridge the gap between the cost of education and the amount the government allows you to borrow in federal loans. Lenders offer private educational loans with different rates, fees, repayment terms, and approval requirements.
Are private loans offered at UNC?
Students may choose to borrow a private loan instead of or in addition to a federal loan.
What are my loan options if I am not a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident?
Some student loan lenders offer private loans to international students that may or may not require a U.S. co-signer. Additional information is available under Full-Time MBA Private Education Loans (may or may not require co-signer).
When will I receive my financial aid award?
Once you are admitted, we will process financial aid usually within the first week. You will receive either a financial aid offer email or a request for additional items.
We will send notification of your financial aid offer to your UNC email that is listed as the primary account on your student center. The email will include instructions on how to view your offer in your ConnectCarolina Student Center. You will need to create an ONYEN (Only Name You’ll Ever Need) in order to view your aid.
How do I accept my financial aid award?
Log in to your ConnectCarolina Student Center pages and click on your “Financial Aid” tab. If additional information and/or documents are required from you before your financial aid eligibility can be determined and an award made, these requirements will be displayed under your “To-Do” list.Click each “to-do” item listed and follow the instructions provided for each item.
Am I required to accept the full amount that I am offered on my award letter?
No, you do not have to accept the full amount offered. Students are encouraged to borrow only what is needed. You can choose to accept all, part or none of your financial aid award.
Students can use the “Reduce/Decline” self-service feature in ConnectCarolina to indicate how much aid they want to accept. When a loan is reduced, the system will automatically split that reduction equally between both the fall and spring semesters.
For example, if a $10,000 loan is reduced to $5,000, the reduction will be updated to $2,500 per fall/spring semester (for a total of $5,000).
If a student’s first term of enrollment is spring semester, loan reductions will only be made for that semester. During the summer term, loan reductions are updated just for that term.
Does my Direct Loan eligibility cover the entire cost of the program?
Possibly; however, all students should anticipate being eligible to borrow the maximum Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan amount as long as they meet the basic eligibility requirements below:
- United States citizen or permanent resident
- Not in default on any undergraduate or graduate federal education loans
- Have not exceeded 138,500 in federal student loan debt for both undergraduate and graduate loans
Students also have the option to apply for the Federal Graduate PLUS Loan to help cover their remaining tuition and fees costs (if needed) or living expenses after their Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan eligibility is exhausted.
When will loans disburse to my student account?
Accepted student loans generally are sent to the University Cashier by the first day of classes each semester or term. Financial aid, including student loans, is automatically applied to billed tuition/fee charges. If a student’s financial aid exceeds the amount of their billed tuition/fee charges, the University Cashier will issue a refund for the overage. The University Cashier issues financial aid refunds within 14 days of aid being applied to a student account. Please note that Students are required to sign up for direct deposit in order for the Cashier’s Office to most quickly deliver any credit balances directly to their bank accounts. This can be a US checking account of your choice.
Can I use loan funds to cover additional expenses such as living, books, supplies, etc.?
Yes. Financial aid budgets include both direct expenses (required tuition and fees) and indirect expenses (housing, meals, transportation, books and supplies, and basic personal expenses). Students can choose to increase their overall indebtedness to include these estimated living expenses, if needed.
Is there a Summit required for this program? If so, will I be able to use loan funds to cover Summit expenses?
Yes, there are two Summits required for the MBA@UNC program. If there is a surplus credit from your loans, you may use those funds to cover expenses associated with your Summit.
Who can I contact at UNC for financial aid questions?
For more detailed information or for further questions, please contact our Financial Aid team at onlinefinaid@unc.edu.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an online application the Department of Education (ED) uses to determine if you are eligible to receive federal student aid. Visit studentaid.gov to complete the FAFSA.
What is the UNC FAFSA school code?
The UNC FAFSA school code is 002974.
Do I need my parents’ tax information to complete the FAFSA?
If you are applying for graduate school, you are considered an independent student, and do not need to include your parents’ information to complete the FAFSA.
What is the Expected Family Contribution (EFC)?
The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is a measurement of your ability to contribute toward your educational costs. As a graduate/professional student your EFC is not a factor in your eligibility for federal student loans.
When should I complete the FAFSA?
The FAFSA is available every October 1st for the upcoming academic year. New students planning to use federal student aid should complete a FAFSA while applying for admission. Continuing students will need to submit a FAFSA each year they plan to receive federal student aid.
Please reference the table below to determine which FAFSA to complete based on your desired start date:
Start | Quarter | FAFSA Year |
---|---|---|
April 2023 | Spring | 2022-2023 |
July 2023 | Fall | 2023-2024 |
October 2023 | Fall | 2023-2024 |
January 2024 | Spring | 2023-2024 |
What constitutes an academic year for federal student aid?
An academic year is the year for which financial aid is used to fund your education. Generally, this is the 12-month period that begins on July 1 of one year and ends on June 30 of the following year.
What criteria is used to determine eligibility for federal student aid?
In order to apply for federal student aid (FSA), you must meet the following basic eligibility criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen
- Have a valid Social Security Number (SSN)
- Be registered with Selective Service, if you are male (must register between the ages of 18 and 25)
- Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment in an eligible degree program
- Be enrolled at least half-time in an eligible program
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress (SAP)
- Not currently be in default on previous federal student loans
- Not have exceeded the maximum aggregate loan limit
What is the aggregate loan limit?
The aggregate loan limit is the total amount that you may borrow in federal student loans for undergraduate and graduate study. In addition to borrowing limitations based on the cost of attendance for the program, students are also limited in terms of lifetime borrowing. The maximum aggregate loan limit for federal loans is $138,500. This amount does not include PLUS loans or private loans.
If the total loan amount you receive over the course of your education reaches the aggregate loan limit, you are not eligible to receive additional loans. However, if you repay some of your loans to bring your outstanding loan debt below the aggregate loan limit, you could then borrow again, up to the amount of your remaining eligibility under the aggregate loan limit. You can learn more about graduate annual loan limits on the Federal Student Aid website.
How do I find out if I am near my aggregate loan limit or have defaulted on a federal student loan?
Log in on the StudentAid.gov homepage to view your federal student loan borrowing history and loan servicer details. Please note that private education loans are not listed on this site. Students in default are not eligible for additional federal loans. Contact your lender for default resolution options.
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan
What is the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan?
Direct Unsubsidized Loans are available to undergraduate and graduate students; at the graduate level, the loan amount is not based on need or income. Graduate & Professional students are only eligible for Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Direct Graduate PLUS Loans; Graduate students are not eligible for Direct Subsidized Loans. Visit the federal student aid website to learn more about the difference between Direct Subsidized Loans and Direct Unsubsidized Loans.
How much am I eligible for with the Direct Unsubsidized Loan?
There are limits on the unsubsidized loans that you may be eligible to receive each academic year (annual loan limits) and the total amounts that you may borrow for undergraduate and graduate study (aggregate loan limits). Most graduate-level students are potentially eligible to receive up to $20,500 per academic year from the Direct Unsubsidized Loan. Learn more about graduate annual loan limits.
How do I apply for the Direct Unsubsidized Loan?
To apply for the Direct Unsubsidized Loan, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.fafsa.gov. You will also need to complete Entrance Counseling and electronically sign the Loan Agreement Master Promissory Note (MPN) online at Studentaid.gov.
What is the current interest rate for the Direct Unsubsidized Loan?
If you receive a federal student loan, you will be required to repay that loan with interest. Interest is paid to the lender as a cost of borrowing. Interest is calculated as a percentage of the unpaid principal amount. Unlike other forms of debt, such as credit cards and mortgages, Direct Loans are daily interest loans, which means that interest accrues (accumulates) daily. The Direct Unsubsidized Loan interest rate is determined on an annual basis for loans disbursed on or after 7/1 of the current year, and before 7/1 of the following year. Learn more about interest rates for federal student loans.
Are there any loan fees for the Direct Unsubsidized Loan?
Most federal student loans have loan fees that are a percentage of the total loan amount. The loan fee is deducted proportionately from each loan disbursement you receive while enrolled in school. This means the money you receive will be less than the amount you actually borrow. You’re responsible for repaying the entire amount you borrowed and not just the amount you received. Learn more about fees associated with federal student loans.
When do I begin repayment on my Direct Unsubsidized Loan?
Once you graduate, drop below half-time enrollment, or leave school, your federal student loan goes into repayment. However, if you have a Direct Unsubsidized Loan, you have a six-month grace period before you are required to start making regular payments. You can make prepayments on your loan while you are in school or during your grace period.
Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan
What is the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?
Direct Graduate PLUS Loans are federal loans that graduate or professional students can use to help pay for education expenses not covered by other financial aid. Before you apply for a PLUS loan, make sure you have already filled out the FAFSA.
What are the eligibility and credit criteria to apply for the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?
In addition to meeting all basic eligibility criteria for federal student aid, applicants cannot have an adverse credit history. A credit check will be performed when applying. If you have an adverse credit history, you may still be able to receive a PLUS loan if you meet additional requirements. Learn more about Direct PLUS Loans.
What is the current interest rate for the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?
If you receive a federal student loan, you will be required to repay that loan with interest. Interest is paid to the lender as a cost of borrowing. Interest is calculated as a percentage of the unpaid principal amount. Unlike other forms of debt, such as credit cards and mortgages, Direct Loans are daily interest loans, which means that interest accrues (accumulates) daily. The Direct Graduate PLUS Loan interest rate is determined on an annual basis for loans disbursed on or after 7/1 of the current year, and before 7/1 of the following year. Learn more about interest rates for federal student loans.
Are there any loan fees for the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?
Most federal student loans have loan fees that are a percentage of the total loan amount. The loan fee is deducted proportionately from each loan disbursement you receive while enrolled in school. This means the money you receive will be less than the amount you actually borrow. You’re responsible for repaying the entire amount you borrowed and not just the amount you received. Learn more about fees associated with federal student loans.
How much can I borrow from the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?
If approved for the Graduate PLUS Loan, you can borrow up to the cost of attendance as determined by UNC.
Do Direct PLUS Loans affect my aggregate loan limit?
Only Direct Subsidized/Direct Unsubsidized Loans (formerly referred to as Stafford loans) and federal loans made through the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program count toward your aggregate loan limit.
When and how do I apply for the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?
You can apply for the Graduate PLUS Loan within 180 days of the start of your program or once you are enrolled. To apply for the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan, you must first complete the FAFSA; next, complete the Direct PLUS Loan Application for Graduate/Professional Students.
What are the next steps if I’m approved for the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?
If approved, complete the Master Promissory Note (MPN) for Graduate/Professional Students.
What are my options if I’m denied the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?
If you are denied, you may appeal by submitting supporting documents or you may reapply with an endorser; someone who agrees to repay the loan if you do not repay it. YOu may begin the credit appeal process, obtain an endorser and complete PLUS Credit Counseling on the federal student aid website.
When do I begin repayment on my Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?
Once you graduate, drop below half-time enrollment, or leave school, your federal student loan goes into repayment. However, if you’re a graduate/professional student PLUS borrower, you will be placed on an automatic deferment while in school and for six months after graduating, leaving school, or dropping below half-time enrollment.
Student Loan Repayment
Do I have to repay my student loans while I’m in school?
No; most federal student loans grant a six-month grace period before you must begin making payments after you graduate, fall below half-time status, take a leave of absence or withdraw from the program.
You can defer payment on your federal student loans if you are enrolled at least half-time. You should be aware that although you can defer payments while you are in school, and during your grace period, interest will still accrue on your loan(s).
Most private loans also have deferred payment options while you are in school; however, you will need to check with your loan servicer.
When do I have to repay my loan?
Repayment begins after the six-month grace period when you graduate, drop below half-time enrollment, take a leave of absence or withdraw from the program. You can make prepayments on your loan while you are in school or during your grace period. Within the grace period, your loan servicer will provide you with a loan repayment schedule that states when your first payment is due, the number and frequency of payments, and the amount of each payment. Your monthly payment amount depends on your repayment plan. Learn more about repayment timelines.
What are the repayment plan options and how do I select one?
The Department of Education (ED) offers multiple options for repayment. When your loan enters repayment, your servicer will automatically place you on the Standard Repayment Plan; however, you may request a different plan at any time. Learn more about federal student loan repayment options.
How can I estimate my repayment amount?
Use the Loan Simulator to estimate how much you would pay monthly and overall.
Can I consolidate my federal student loans?
Yes; if you have multiple student loans you may be able to combine them into one loan with a fixed interest rate. A Direct Consolidation Loan allows you to combine multiple federal education loans into one loan including both graduate and undergraduate loans. When completing the free Federal Direct Consolidation Loan Application and Promissory Note, you will confirm the loans that you want to consolidate and agree to repay the new Direct Consolidation Loan.The result is a single monthly payment instead of multiple payments. Learn more about loan consolidation.
What are the federal student loan forgiveness options?
In certain situations, all or a portion of your federal student loans may be forgiven, canceled, or discharged. If you’re no longer required to make payments on your loans due to your job, this is generally called forgiveness or cancellation. If you’re no longer required to make payments on your loans due to other circumstances, such as a total and permanent disability or the closure of the school where you received your loans, this is generally called discharge.
Outside of the circumstances that may qualify you to have your loans forgiven, canceled, or discharged, you remain responsible for repaying your loan, per the Master Promissory Note you signed. Learn more about federal student loan forgiveness programs.
Military Education Benefits
Are there scholarship opportunities or tuition discounts for military students or family members?
Not at this time, though all students are considered for fellowships based on their application.
How do I begin the process to apply for the GI Bill® and other VA education benefits?
Visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) website, VA.gov to find out if you’re eligible for VA education benefits and get started on your education benefits form. The Education Benefits Application generates a request for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). The COE is mailed to you within 30-45 days from submitting the application.
Once you have received your Certificate of Eligibility, you should submit a copy to the UNC Veterans Services Office along with official transcripts of all colleges attended and the UNC-CH Veterans Educational Benefits Enrollment Data Form.
Questions regarding eligibility should be directed to the VA at 1-(888)-442-4551.
What is the deadline to apply for VA education benefits?
VA processing times may vary so it is best to reach out to the VA Certifying Official as early as possible.
Will my military benefits cover the entire cost of the program?
Coverage is based on individual entitlement. Please contact the VA Certifying Official at kfveteransaffairs@kenan-flagler.unc.edu to discuss coverage.
What is the current payment rate of benefits, including the Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA)?
The MHA rates are determined at the beginning of each military academic year on August 1, and are valid through July 31st. View the current payment and MHA rate. Please note that the MBA@UNC is considered distance learning.
Does MBA@UNC participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program (YRP)?
The yellow ribbon program is not applicable to the MBA@UNC program as it is considered In-State by the VA (no matter your location).
Aside from the Post-9/11 GI Bill, what other military benefits does UNC accept or participate in?
UNC accepts the following funding options for members of the military and veterans:
- Montgomery GI Bill (Chapter 30) Active Duty Educational Assistance Program
- Montgomery GI Bill (Chapter 1606) Selected Reserve Educational Assistance Program
- Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (Chapter 35)
- Veteran Readiness & Employment (Chapter 31)
- Fry Scholarship
Who can I contact at UNC for questions about using military education benefits?
For questions regarding the use of your military education benefits, contact the UNC VA Certifying Official (Karsen Spain).You can reach Karsen Spain via email at Karsen_Spain@kenan-flagler.unc.edu.
Tax Benefits for Education
How do I qualify for a tuition tax credit?
For details on tax benefits for education, see Publication 970. Tax Benefits for Higher Education, which provides detailed information. UNC is unable to provide tax advice. We urge you to contact your tax advisor or the IRS at 800-829-1040 or www.irs.gov if you have any questions regarding the HOPE or Lifetime Learning Tax Credits.
What is the 1098-T form?
It is an informational form filed with the Internal Revenue Service to report the amounts billed to you for qualified tuition, related expenses, and other related information. The primary purpose of the IRS Form 1098‐T is to inform you that we have provided this required information to the IRS.
What information is included in the 1098-T form?
Form 1098-T reports amounts paid for qualified tuition, scholarship and grants processed in the previous year to students enrolled in courses at UNC for which they receive academic credit. The information reported on the 1098-T form helps students evaluate whether they are eligible for an educational tax credit.
How do I obtain my 1098-T Form?
1098-T forms will be available online through the ConnectCarolina Student Center before the Jan. 31 mailing deadline. Please allow 10 days for arrival/delivery of 1098-Ts mailed to students who did not choose electronic delivery.
Students can access their 1098-T form by logging in to ConnectCarolina, clicking the Student Center tile, and using the drop-down menu under the Student Financials section. Select “View 1098T” and click the arrow button. For additional information on obtaining your 1098-T Form, please visit UNC University Cashier page.
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1 UNC Kenan-Flagler was ranked #19 by U.S. News & World Report in the most recent report published in 2022, and its online MBA program is ranked #1 in 2022 (https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/university-of-north-carolina-at-chapel-hill-199120/rankings).arrow_upwardReturn to footnote reference