Some states have educational loan programs which have more reasonable interest rates than the private loan companies. The Connecticut Higher Education Supplemental Loan Authority (CHESLA) administers the CT FELP alternative loan to students enrolled at least half-time at a college or university in Connecticut, or who are Connecticut residents attending college outside of Connecticut. This loan offers a fixed interest rate and deferment on principal while the student is in school. Please refer to www.chesla.org or call (860) 236-1400 for more information about the CT FELP alternative loan program. Refer to your own state's Department of Higher Education or your school's financial aid office for more information about state loan programs.