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NIH Fellows Advantage Program3

At the 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:

  • Excellent borrowing opportunities – even for those without established credit

  • Savings and Checking options

  • Tools and resources to help build a positive credit profile and reach your financial goals

  • Complimentary financial counseling available by phone in a variety of languages

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 fellow’s consultation, stop by any branch or call.

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International Fellows receive unique financial benefits through NIHFCU
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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!

The NIH Fellows Advantage Program offers a variety of lending options

Visa Platinum Credit Cards

The NIHFCU 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 18.00% APR2

  • The same rate for cash advances and purchases

  • A low 1% foreign transaction fee

Have questions, need advice? Email, call, or stop by any branch today.

 

 

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Mortgages

The NIHFCU NIH Fellows Advantage mortgage offers financing options with as low as 20% down for those without a credit score and, as low as 5% with a qualifying credit score. Plus, NIH Fellows Advantage mortgages also:

  • Treat the fellow’s income 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 apply, speak to a mortgage specialist today, 855-203-4747. Have questions, need advice? Email or stop by any branch today.

 

 

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Personal (Signature) Loans

The NIHFCU NIH 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

Have questions, need advice? Email, call, or stop by any branch today.

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Auto Loans

An NIHFCU NIH Fellows Advantage Auto Loan allows fellows with no established credit to finance a car with only a 10% down payment. Plus, NIH Fellows Advantage auto loans also offer:

  • Fixed rates

  • Up to 90 days before 1st payment is due4

  • Special pricing on new and used vehicles through NIHFCUs Car buying service

  • Exclusive member rates on a variety of protection programs

Have questions, need advice? Email, call, or stop by any branch today.

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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.

 

Call us today

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Rates, fees and terms as of December 6, 2023 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.