Any student who is currently not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident but is attending an eligible college in the United States is considered an international student. They will typically need a nonimmigrant visa, such as a F, J or M visa, to study in the United States. International students will also need to meet specific lender requirements.
However, certain noncitizens are eligible for federal aid. You may not need to search for a private international student loan if you:
Are a U.S. national.
Are a U.S. permanent resident with a green card.
Have an Arrival-Departure Record showing refugee, asylum granted, Cuban-Haitian entrant, conditional entrant or parolee status.
Hold a T nonimmigrant status.
Are a "battered immigrant-qualified alien."
Are a citizen of the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands or the Republic of Palau.