Student Lines of Credit

University and college students can obtain a substantial amount of financing for education through student lines of credit offered by the banks. A credit line is different from a loan because you don't have to borrow the full amount at once. You can withdraw money from your line of credit as you need it, much like using a credit card.

Student lines of credit are designed to accommodate the special needs of postsecondary students. The banks allow students to defer payment of principal for up to one year after graduation. Although you must make interest payments on the borrowed amount during this period, you have time to complete your studies and find a job before starting to repay the principal. Student lines of credit also tend to have lower interest rates than other non-governmental forms of borrowing.

Details about lines of credit available to undergraduate students are listed below; the banks also offer other types of credit lines for many graduate programs. You can apply online (in most cases), over the phone or at your local bank branch. Please note that the figures below may change, so consult your financial institution for updates.

          Notes:  * = refers to length of time after graduation for deferral of principal repayment
                      n/a = not available, depends on terms of the loan