Covenant Scholars Foundation and Participating Universities
The Covenant Scholars Foundation
CSF is an independent not-for-profit organization that provides education loans in partnership only with participating institutions demonstrating exceptional repayment history across their alumni base. While schools may certify eligibility, the Foundation operates separately and professionally as the lender in accordance with federal and state education loan requirements.
How CSF and Our University Partners Work Together
The Covenant Scholars Foundation and participating universities work together to expand responsible loan options for students—but they are separate and independent organizations. Universities do not issue, service, or profit from Covenant Scholars Foundation loans. The Foundation operates independently and is a not-for-profit lender.
Advantages of a CSF Loan
Participating institutions’ Financial Aid Offices help students understand whether the program may be a good fit and certifies eligibility—but the loan itself comes directly from the Covenant Scholars Foundation. What this means for students is:
- An added borrowing option when federal loans and other private loans higher rates and fees, are less flexible, or limiting access to the academic program our borrowers wish to pursue
- Below market interest rates and better terms compared to federal PLUS loans options and/or most private lending sources
Advantages of a CSF Loan
- A not-for-profit alternative to private loans, with transparent terms and borrower protections
- No financial incentive for the University to encourage borrowing—your university does not receive loan payments or servicing revenue
A Shared Commitment to Students
While independent, the Covenant Scholars Foundation and participating Universities share a commitment to student success and responsible borrowing. The program encourages students to use scholarships, grants, institutional aid, and low-cost federal loans first—and to view borrowing as a serious commitment that should support, not hinder, long‑term financial wellbeing.
Why Borrow from CSF?
Compared to private and institutional alternatives, the Covenant Scholars Fund offers:
Mission Driven Pricing
Low default rates among prior borrowers allow the Fund to pass savings to students in the form of lower interest costs—rather than retaining profits or charging high originations fees common in the private loan market.
Paying It Forward
Because the Covenant Scholars Fund is a revolving, nonprofit lending model, responsible repayment directly benefits future students—an approach central to CSF’s mission and ability to provide better terms.
Stability and Predictability
Unlike variable‑rate private loans, CSF loans are structured for long‑term affordability and transparency, similar to—but often more favorably than—university‑based loan programs.
Student Success
Borrowers are supported with clear disclosures, servicing continuity, and a repayment structure designed for educational outcomes—not short‑term lender returns.