Short-Term Loans

Northwestern University Short-Term Loan Program

The Chicago Office of Financial Aid administers the Short-Term Loan Program to assist students with unexpected financial emergencies that arise during the academic year. Students are entitled to one emergency loan of up to $500, depending on their account status with the University. A student is eligible to receive a second emergency loan of no more than $500 during the academic year only if the following four conditions are met:

  • The first emergency loan is repaid in full.
  • The student's tuition account has a zero balance.
  • The student is enrolled at least half-time and the academic term is still in session.
  • The student's academic year consists of at least two terms.

Emergency short-term loans must be repaid within 60 days of receiving the funds or by the end of the semester, whichever comes first. For more information, contact the Chicago Office of Financial Aid.

W. Willard Wirtz Loan Fund

Northwestern Pritzker School of Law alumnus Mark C. Curran (JD '50) established the W. Willard Wirtz Loan Fund in 1987 to provide zero-interest loans to qualifying students in JD programs who encounter unforeseen financial emergencies during the periods of the calendar year not covered by other financial aid. The fund is also available to graduates who may experience financial difficulties during the time between graduation and the start of employment.

Students can borrow up to $2,000 through the Wirtz Fund. For more information, contact the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid.