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How Do You Complete a Master Promissory Note?

Learn how to complete a Master Promissory Note on StudentAid.gov, what it means legally, and how it differs from entrance counseling.

Direct answer

To complete a Master Promissory Note, sign in to StudentAid.gov, choose the MPN for the Direct Loan type you are borrowing, review the borrower terms, provide required references and information, and electronically sign the agreement. The MPN is the legal promise to repay the loan and is different from entrance counseling.

loan type + correct MPN + electronic signature = legal repayment agreement submitted

MPN fit check

Undergraduate Direct Loan

Subsidized/Unsubsidized MPN

School may also require counseling

Graduate PLUS Loan

PLUS MPN path

Different from undergrad MPN

Parent PLUS Loan

Parent borrower MPN

Parent signs, not the student

Entrance counseling missing

Complete counseling separately

MPN does not replace it

School checklist still incomplete

Check school portal

Processing can take time

Situation	Likely task	Caution
Undergraduate Direct Loan	Subsidized/Unsubsidized MPN	School may also require counseling
Graduate PLUS Loan	PLUS MPN path	Different from undergrad MPN
Parent PLUS Loan	Parent borrower MPN	Parent signs, not the student
Entrance counseling missing	Complete counseling separately	MPN does not replace it
School checklist still incomplete	Check school portal	Processing can take time

You are signing a legal repayment promise

The MPN is not just a website checklist item. It is the document that says you agree to repay the Direct Loan under the listed terms.

Complete the MPN

1Sign in to StudentAid.gov.
2Choose the Master Promissory Note for the correct loan type.
3Review borrower information, school information, terms, and references.
4Read the repayment promise and disclosures.
5Electronically sign and confirm completion with your school checklist.

FAQ

Is the Master Promissory Note a loan application?

No. The MPN is the legal repayment agreement for Direct Loans. You may still need school certification, entrance counseling, and other aid steps.

Do I need a separate MPN for each loan type?

Often yes. Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, PLUS Loans, and graduate PLUS borrowing can use different MPN paths.

Can I receive a loan without signing the MPN?

No. If an MPN is required for your Direct Loan, the school generally cannot disburse that loan until the required MPN is complete.

Sources & method

We reviewed these references while writing this answer. Figures are estimates — confirm safety-critical work with a professional. Last updated June 7, 2026.