Financing your medical school education

You need to plan ahead for financing your medical education just as you plan ahead for the application process.
You need to discuss your plans for funding your medical education with your family.
You need to let medical schools know you're interested in what financial assistance they offer.
You need to investigate federal and institutional grant and loan assistance programs, service-obligated scholarships, and other resources.
You need to find out from the institution's financial aid office how to apply to these programs.
You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to qualify for most forms of financial assistance.
You need to limit your borrowing for your education so that repaying your loans will not jeopardize your future.
You need to set up a budget and stick to it.
You need to save as much money as you can.
You need to limit debts; pay off credit cards.
You must have a good credit rating so that you can qualify for some student loans and admission to some medical schools. .
You need to obtain a copy of your credit card report to correct for errors and check for any negative information.
You need to understand the consequences of student loan defaults.
You must understand your rights and responsibilities regarding financial assistance programs.