Federal PLUS Loans are provided to a parent. They require a credit check, but in this case the credit criteria to obtain a PLUS are more flexible than they are for other types of consumer loans. Federal Plus Loans give possibility to parents to cover the costs that may not be covered by Federal student loans. Again these kinds of loans are also can be provided by private lenders (category FFELP) and directly by government. Repayment of a PLUS loan begins after the loan is fully disbursed.
    The Federal Graduate PLUS is similar to the PLUS for parents except that it is intended for a graduate student. But as a first step you have to use your Federal Stafford loan eligibility and only after that you have the right to apply for a Federal Graduate PLUS loan. You should keep in mind that the Federal Graduate PLUS has to be repaid as soon as the loan is fully disbursed. If you are still attending school at least half-time there are deferment options available for you.