About Us

The Council for South Texas Economic Progress (COSTEP) was founded in 1972 by former U.S. Senator and Secretary of Treasury Lloyd Bentsen, Jr., and other South Texas political and community leaders, who shared his deep concern for the economy of this region. COSTEP is a non-profit corporation, an ideal industry partner providing financial aid assistance and information to students as well as, their families throughout Texas.

COSTEP, in partnership with numerous Texas lending institutions, is an originator and Servicer of low interest, Federal Guaranteed student loans through the Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFEL). This partnership allows us to offer students repayment rates that are among the lowest in the industry, yet offering the Academic Advantage Group™ (AAG) of Lenders premiums among the highest in the nation. Our dedication to the student loan industry remains focused on expanding access to higher education for students.

The challenges in the student loan industry vary with the rise and fall of interest rates and changing of administrative polices in Washington, D.C. As a result, COSTEP continues to engage in strategic planning to address the challenges head-on and to control the direction of the company into the 21st century.

Our Mission

Our mission is to offer loan origination, loan servicing and outreach in order to facilitate access to a post-secondary education.

Our Vision

Our vision is to position ourselves for growth by being the foremost deliverer and Servicer of student loans and the industry leader in providing information and access on financing a post-secondary education through exemplary customer service.

Our Values

COSTEP’s actions are guided by our belief that equal access to education is the key to economic progress for all. Fundamentals to our success are based on a passionate work ethic, a positive attitude, integrity, clear and open timely communication in conjunction with mutual respect for each others abilities, talents and differences.

Our Creed

My success is dependent on having an impeccable word, not taking anything personally, not making assumptions and always doing my best.