Loan Application Process
Become a Member
Join Connect Credit Union and avail of numerous tailored benefits, outstanding customer service and amazing community
Calculate your Loan
Estimate how much you could borrow and calculate your repayments: weekly, fortnightly, or monthly using our online calculator
Apply for a Loan Online
Apply for your loan from the comfort of your home with our new online loan application. Upload all your loan documents through our mobile app - no paper no stress!
Sit back and relax
Voilá! You are done! Our team are now reviewing your application, we will be in touch shortly to confirm your loan application.
Loan Calculator
Maximum Loan Term :
4.99%
4.99%
4.99%
This calculator is for illustrative purposes only, to give you, the borrower, an overview of the potential cost of borrowing. The Credit Union, or any of its staff, cannot be held responsible for any errors. Please note that this calculator only provides an indicative quote and actual repayments may vary.
What do I need to apply?
One of the areas accessed when a loan application is received is the members capacity to repay the loan. Here at Connect Credit Union we understand that many students are unable to study full time and maintain a regular income. In this case a Guarantor will be required. This person can be a parent or guardian. This simply means the Guarantor will legally take responsibility to repay the loan if you are not in a position to do so. If this situation applies to you do not be put off applying for an Educational Loan. We are happy to answer any questions and queries you or your guarantor may have.
We require some or all of the following information to accompany Education Loan Applications ie:
- 3 Most recent Pay Slips
- Previous 3 months banks statements
- Guarantor will require the same documents if applicant is not employed
- Proof of education (e.g. college registration, student card or acceptance letter)
Representative Example
A representative example is a term used in financial regulations. The example will help to show you the typical costs associated with a loan for a certain amount.
Loan Amount€5,000 | Loan Term3 years | Monthly Repayment€150 |
Rate of Interest - APR4.99% | Total Interest€386 | Total Cost of Credit€5,386 |
Features & Benefits
Many financial institutions do not offer loans under €1000, so come to us for the amount you want to borrow
Competitive interest rates
No balloon payments
No hidden charges. No administration fees.
Free Loan Insurance for eligible members
Repayments to suit you - weekly, fortnightly, or monthly
Education Loan FAQs
An education loan from Connect Credit Union is a member loan at a reduced rate of 4.99% APR, designed to cover the costs of third-level study. You can borrow from €1,000 to €30,000 over a term of up to 5 years, and use it for college fees, accommodation, books, course materials, living expenses, or a car to get you to college.
The Connect Credit Union education loan has a reduced rate of 4.99% APR. Representative example: a €5,000 loan over 3 years costs €150 per month, with €386 total interest and a total cost of credit of €5,386. Rate is correct as of July 2026 and subject to approval.
You can borrow from €1,000 to €30,000 with a Connect Credit Union education loan, over a term of up to 5 years. Unlike many lenders who won't lend under €1,000, Connect will lend the smaller amount you actually need.
You need to be a member of Connect Credit Union to apply for an education loan. Membership is open to people living or working in the common bond area across Co. Louth. If you're not a member yet, you can join and then apply.
An education loan covers the full cost of third-level study: college and university fees, course registration, books and materials, rent or accommodation, and living expenses while you study. It can also cover a car to get you to and from college.
Yes. A Connect Credit Union education loan can cover a car to get you to and from college, alongside fees, books, accommodation and living costs. The full loan, including the car, is at the reduced rate of 4.99% APR.
Yes. The Connect education loan is suitable for college and university courses, PLC programmes, and apprenticeships, covering fees and related costs at the 4.99% APR rate.
A guarantor is required if you don't have a regular income, which applies to many full-time students. The guarantor is usually a parent or guardian and agrees to repay the loan if you can't. If you're employed with a regular income, a guarantor may not be needed.
To apply you'll need your three most recent payslips, your last three months of bank statements, and proof of education such as a college registration, student card, or acceptance letter. If you don't have a regular income, your guarantor will need to provide the same financial documents.
Yes. You can apply online through the Connect Credit Union website or mobile app, and upload your documents through the app with no paperwork. You can also apply in branch in Blackrock or Termonfeckin, or book a loan appointment.
Yes. You can make lump sum repayments or clear the full loan early without any penalty, which reduces the total interest you pay. There are no hidden charges and no administration fees.
You can start your education loan application instantly online, and the team reviews it once your documents are submitted. Processing time depends on your documents and the loan, and Connect will be in touch shortly after you apply to confirm.
No. The Connect education loan has no hidden charges, no administration fees, and no balloon payments. Eligible members also get free loan insurance, and repayments can be weekly, fortnightly, or monthly to suit you.
Ready to Apply?
Are you ready to apply or do you need more information on our affordable loans? Click the "Apply Now" button to start your journey right now or click the "Contact Us" button to send us a message if you are unsure about your documentation, or still have other questions. Also, you can book an appointment and apply for a loan in person.
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