FEDERAL LOANS
The Federal Direct loan is the most common student loan program for funding undergraduate and graduate education. Learn more about federal direct loan programs.
Subsidized loans are based on financial need as determined by the Expected Family Contribution on the FAFSA. The federal government pays the interest on the Subsidized Loan amount borrowed while the student remain in school at least half-time.
How to apply:
First-time Borrowers
- Complete Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Accept the loan online at PAWS
- Complete Federal Direct Student Loans Entrance Counseling
- Sign Master Promissory Note (MPN)
Repeat Borrowers
- Complete Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Accept the loan online at PAWS
Unsubsidized loans are not based on financial need, therefore the federal government does not pay the interest during in-school, grace, and deferment periods. Students may choose to defer interest payments until repayment begins; however, the student is responsible for all interest that has accrued, which will automatically capitalize to the loan principal.
How to apply:
First-time Borrowers
- Complete Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Accept the loan online at PAWS
- Complete Federal Direct Student Loans Entrance Counseling
- Sign Master Promissory Note (MPN)
Repeat Borrowers
- Complete Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Accept the loan online at PAWS
A Federal PLUS is a loan in the parent’s name for a dependent student enrolled at least half time in a degree-seeking program. It is a non-need based loan with the benefit of having a fixed interest rate. PLUS Loans are available regardless of income or assets, and no collateral is required. While the parent borrower does not have to prove financial need, a credit check is required.
First-time Borrowers
- Complete Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Complete Parent PLUS Loan Application
- Complete PLUS Credit Counseling
- Approved Parent Plus Loan borrower must complete Loan Agreement for a PLUS Loan (MPN)
Repeat Borrowers
- Complete Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Complete Parent PLUS Loan Application
- Approved Parent Plus Loan borrower must complete Loan Agreement for a PLUS Loan (MPN)
A Federal Graduate PLUS is a loan in a graduate or professional student’s name enrolled at least half time in a degree seeking program. The Graduate PLUS Loan carries the same terms and conditions as the Parent PLUS Loan. The borrower should apply for the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan before applying for a Graduate PLUS loan. A credit check is required.
First-time Borrowers
- Complete Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Complete Graduate PLUS Loan Application
- Complete Graduate PLUS Loan Entrance Counseling
Repeat Borrowers
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