W. Willard Wirtz Loan
Northwestern University Short-Term Loan Program
The Office of Financial Aid administers the short-term loan program, which is
intended to assist students with unexpected financial emergencies that arise
during the academic year. Students are entitled to one emergency loan of up
to $500, regardless of their account status with the University. A student
is eligible to receive a second emergency loan of no more than $500 during
the school year ONLY if the following four conditions are met:
- The first emergency loan is repaid in full
- Your tuition account has a zero balance
- You are enrolled at least half-time and your academic term is still in session
- Your academic year consists of at least two terms
Emergency loans must be repaid within 60 days of receiving the funds or by the end of the semester, whichever comes first.
For more information, contact the Office of Financial Aid, Chicago, by calling (312) 503-8722 or visit our office in Abbott Hall, Room 629.
W.Willard Wirtz Loan Fund
Northwestern Law alum Mark C. Curran (JD '50) established the W. Willard Wirtz
Loan Fund in 1987 to provide zero-interest loans to qualifying students who
encounter unforeseen financial emergencies during the periods of the calendar
year not covered by other financial aid. The fund is administered through
the Northwestern University Student Loan Office and is also available to graduates
who may experience financial difficulties during the time between graduation
and the start of employment.
Students can borrow up to $4,000 a year through the Wirtz Fund. Loan applications are available through the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid. Students are required to sign and return promissory notes to the Student Loan Office before loan funds can be disbursed.
For more information, contact the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid.

