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NIH Fellows Advantage Program1

At NIHFCU, we know it’s often difficult for international NIH fellows to access financial services while in the U.S.

Our popular NIH Fellows Advantage Program addresses this need with benefits typically unavailable elsewhere, including:

Established credit is not required to apply for a loan through the NIH Fellows Advantage Program1. NIH Fellows only need a U.S. social security number to get started.

Need advice? Schedule a complimentary, no obligation NIH fellows consultation, stop by any branch or call.

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International Fellows receive unique financial benefits through NIHFCU
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The NIH Fellows Advantage Program offers a variety of unique borrowing options

Mortgages

Options with as low as 20% down for those without a credit score and, as low as 5% with a qualifying credit score.

Other benefits of an NIHFCU fellow mortgage include:

  • Fellow’s income is treated similar to that of a salaried/W2 income.

  • Adjustable Rate options available for those with no credit

  • Fixed options available for those with qualifying credit

  • Offer cash rebates when you use a HomeAdvantage agent to buy your home

Speak to a mortgage specialist today at 855-203-4747.  Or to schedule a no-obligation consultation and get great advice, email us or stop by any branch today.

>>> Ready to apply, visit our home loans section
Auto Loans

An NIH Fellows Advantage Auto Loan allows fellows with no established credit finance a car with only a 10% down payment.

Plus, NIH Fellows Advantage auto loans also offer:

  • Excellent fixed rate loans

  • Up to 90 days before 1st payment is due4

  • Convenient at-home shopping with special pricing on new and used vehicles through NIHFCUs Car Buying Service

  • Exclusive member rates on a variety of protection programs

Speak to a loan specialist today at 1-855-852-4748.  Or to schedule a no-obligation consultation and get great advice, email us or stop by any branch today.

>>> Ready to apply, get started here! 
Personal loans

The Fellows Advantage Personal Loan lets you borrow with no credit score for almost any purpose.

Plus, NIH Fellows Advantage personal loans also offer:

  • Amounts up to $5,000

  • Fixed rates

  • No collateral requirements

Speak to a loan specialist today at 1-855-852-4748.  Or to schedule a no-obligation consultation and get great advice, email us or stop by any branch today.

>>> Ready to apply, get started here! 
Credit Cards

The NIH Fellows Advantage Visa Platinum Cards have no annual fee and include limits up to $2500 for applicants without a credit score.

Plus, an NIH Fellows Advantage Visa Platinum Card also offers:

  • No required security deposit

  • Variable rates currently 17.74% APR2

  • The same rate for cash advances and purchases

  • A low 1% foreign transaction fee

Speak to a loan specialist today at 1-855-852-4748.  Or to schedule a no-obligation consultation and get great advice, email us or stop by any branch today.

>>> Ready to apply, get started here! 
Share Secured Loans

The NIH Fellows Advantage Share Secured loans allows you to use a portion of your NIHFCU savings (or certificate) as collateral for the loan you need. Plus, NIH Fellows Advantage Share Secured Loans also offer

  • Low variable rates3: (prevailing share or certificate rate + 3.00%2

  • Generous payback terms

  • No fees or prepayment penalties

Has question, need advice? Email, call, or stop by any branch today.
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Perfect for visitors

As a foreign scientist arriving at NIH, I find it very convenient to have a financial institution right on campus that is tailored to the needs of the people working here!

Rates, fees and terms as of May 17, 2025 and subject to change without notice

Financial wellness begins and ends with the facts. Here’s what you need to know!
1 NIH Fellows with a qualifying credit score can apply and may qualify for loans of larger amounts, other rates, and additional features based on standard guidelines and creditworthiness.
2 APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Final rates and terms for approved applicants depend on credit and payment history, payment method and other factors which may be lawfully considered. Restrictions may apply.
3 The rate on this loan is variable, based on the dividend rate NIHFCU pays on the account pledged as security for the loan. Certificate-secured loan payoff must not exceed the maturity date of the pledged certificate.
4  A deferral of up to 90 days for your first payment may be available on certain vehicle loans, as determined by the credit union. Deferring a payment will delay the payoff of your loan, and result in additional finance charges if you only make minimum payments. You need to make up the deferred payments. If the credit union agrees to a deferral, additional restrictions may apply.