Loan repayments

Please note that Birkbeck College assumes no responsibility whatsoever for the repayment of your loan. It is your responsibility to repay your loan.

There is a six-month grace period on Stafford loans from the date you graduate or leave university, or drop below half-time status. Repayment begins at the end of the grace period. Please check with your lender for full details about repayment.

Remember that if you default on your loans (270 days or more delinquent), a report is made to all the national credit bureaus which could result in your not being able to obtain a credit card, a mortgage or a car loan. Your name will also be given to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) which may take your federal income tax refund, and your lender may possibly institute other action. If in doubt please contact your lender.

It is also your responsibility to:

  1. notify your loan servicer of anything that affects your ability to repay your loan
  2. notify your loan servicer of any changes in your status, including graduation, and any changes to your name, address, or telephone number
  3. notify your loan servicer if you fail to enrol for the period covered by your loan
  4. notify the Head of Academic Services of any change in your address or student status

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Deferment of federal and private loan repayments

You have the right to defer your previous loans while enrolled at least half-time. Request a deferment form from your lender and have it certified by the Registrar’s Office. You are welcome to post the form or bring it to the Enquiries counter at the Registry for collection the next working day.

Please note that as Birkbeck College is outside of the US, your lender will not automatically be informed that you have resumed study. It is your responsibility to get the correct paperwork filled out, and to return this documentation to your lender.