Managing Your Student Loans

Understanding your responsibilities

As a federal student loan borrower, it’s crucial to fully understand your loan terms and responsibilities. You’ll need to complete required steps as a borrower and develop habits that will help you manage your loans through your education and repayment period.

First-time borrowers: Steps to get started

  1. Submit the Permission to Hold Funds form.
    Download and complete the Permission to Hold Title IV Fund form to allow loan funds to cover discretionary charges like health insurance and housing.
  2. Complete your master promissory note (MPN) and entrance counseling.
    • Go to studentaid.gov.
    • Log in with your FSAID.
    • Click on "Complete Aid Process" and select "Complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN)".
    • Choose “Subsidized/Unsubsidized” and follow the steps.
    • Return to the “Complete Aid Process” screen, select “Complete Counseling,” and complete the Entrance Counseling.
  3. Attend in-person entrance counseling.
    You’ll receive instructions during orientation on how to schedule this required session with the director of financial aid.

For all borrowers: Loan tracking and financial aid refund

  • Track your loans.
    Regularly visit the National Student Loan Database System to review your federal loans and ensure all information is accurate.
  • Use the AAMC/ADEA Dental Loan Organizer and Calculator (DLOC)
    Use the DLOC to keep track of your borrowing and explore repayment options. You can register at AAMC Services.

Financial Aid Refund Request

If you’ve borrowed for living expenses, request a refund from Financial Aid. The amount will be split between fall and spring semesters.

  • Direct Deposit (Recommended): Enroll through the student term bill website for funds deposited within 3 business days.
  • Check by Mail: Ensure your address is updated in the student account, and funds will be mailed within 3 business days.

Quick links

Preliminary financial aid application Financial aid appeal application Permission to hold funds form

Consumer information disclosures

In accordance with federal Consumer Information regulations, the following information is available to all current and prospective students at Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM). If you have any questions, please contact the Financial Aid Office.