A new loan program at The University of Kansas is designed to help students continue their legal education without turning to private bank loans or requiring a co-signer.
The Jayhawk Endowment Law Program for Students (J-HELPS) provides full-time KU School of Law students with a minimum 2.0 GPA access to loans with a fixed 5% interest rate and flexible repayment terms.
The program was created in response to recent changes in federal student loan rules that cap annual borrowing at $50,000, a threshold many law students nationwide exceed when financing tuition and living expenses. Through J-HELPS, KU Law students who reach that limit can avoid higher-cost private loans.
Because of KU School of Law’s comparatively low tuition — $26,875 for in-state students and $33,975 for out-of-state students — most students do not approach the federal borrowing limit. Still, school leaders say the program provides an important safeguard.
Steven Freedman, associate dean of admissions, said the program reflects a long-term commitment to access and affordability at KU School of Law.
“While most of our students won’t need to utilize the program, for those who do, these loans allow them to continue their legal education without the hassle and expense of private bank financing,” Freedman said.
Last academic year, 97% of KU School of Law students borrowed less than $50,000 for tuition and living expenses. In addition, more than 80% of KU School of Law students receive scholarships, further reducing the need to borrow.
J-HELPS is available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Loans include a 2% origination fee. Borrowers must first maximize their eligibility under the federal loan program, and total loans may not exceed the cost of attendance.
J-HELPS loans are provided by KU Endowment, a non-profit association founded in 1891 whose sole mission is to support The University of Kansas and its students.
More information about the J-HELPS loan program and financial aid at The University of Kansas School of Law is available at law.ku.edu/loan-program.
