Eligibility For Federal Student Loans
This blog post simplifies the eligibility criteria for the different types of federal student loans, and explains how to apply for federal student loans.
Available through the federal government, federal student loans are known as one of the most important tools for students that are looking for a way to finance their college education. These loans help provide convenient access to money for a number of costs such as tuition, room and board, books, supplies, as well as other expenses associated with attending school. Federal student loans offer a variety of repayment plans, terms, and conditions that make it easier for students to manage their education costs responsibly – but in order to access these loans, you first have to be eligible for them.
Federal Student Loan Benefits
The main benefits of taking out a federal student loan are as follows:
Flexible Repayment Plans:
Federal student loans offer a variety of repayment plans that can be tailored to the individual’s financial situation. These plans include income-driven repayment, extended payment, and graduated repayment options.
Deferment or Forbearance:
Options such as student loan deferment or forbearance are available, allowing borrowers to temporarily suspend or reduce their loan payments. This can be helpful when financial hardship arises and a borrower needs time to get back on track with their loan repayment plan.
Loan Forgiveness Programs:
After satisfying certain criteria there are some federal student loans that offer forgiveness programs, allowing borrowers to have part or all of their loans forgiven. For example, borrowers may qualify for loan forgiveness if they have made a certain number of payments and have maintained good standing with their lender.
Types of Federal Student Loans
Knowing the type of federal student loans available is important in that it helps students make an informed decision about which loan best meets their needs. There are different types of federal student loans available, each with its own eligibility criteria and terms and conditions.
| Type of Loan | Eligibility criteria | Enrollment Status | FAFSA required |
| Direct Subsidized | Must demonstrate financial need | At least half-time in an eligible school | Yes |
| Direct Unsubsidized | No financial need required | At least half-time in an eligible school | Yes |
| Parent PLUS Loan | Must be a parent or legal guardian of the student borrower | Student must be enrolled at least half-time in an eligible school | Yes |
| Grad PLUS Loan | Must be a graduate student enrolled in an eligible program at an approved school | Student must be enrolled at least half-time in an eligible school | Yes |
| Federal Perkins Loan | Must demonstrate exceptional financial need | At least half-time in an eligible school | Yes |
| Consolidation Loan | Must have an existing federal student loan | No enrollment status required | Not required, but must have an existing federal student loan |
Direct Subsidized Loans:
These loans are offered to undergraduate students based on their financial needs. To be eligible for a direct subsidized loan, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient income or assets to cover your educational expenses without relying solely on the loan. Student borrowers who are enrolled at least half-time and have a valid FAFSA on file may qualify for these loans. The maximum loan amount is determined by your school and can range from $3,500 to $5,500 per year.
Direct Unsubsidized Loans:
This loan is available to undergraduate, graduate and professional students regardless of their financial needs. Students who are enrolled at least half-time and have a valid FAFSA on file may qualify for this loan. The maximum loan amount is determined by your school but generally ranges from $5,500 to $20,500 per year.
Parent PLUS Loans:
This type of PLUS loan is available to credit-worthy parents of dependent undergraduate students who do not demonstrate financial need. The parent borrower must be listed on the student’s FAFSA in order to qualify for this loan. The maximum loan amount for a Parent PLUS loan is determined by your school, but generally ranges from $10,500 to the cost of attendance minus any other financial aid received.
Grad PLUS Loans:
Another type of PLUS loan, these loans are tailored to credit-worthy graduate or professional students who do not demonstrate financial need. Students must be enrolled at least half-time and have a valid FAFSA on file to qualify for this loan. The maximum loan amount for Grad PLUS loans is determined by your school and can range from $10,500 to the cost of attendance minus any other financial aid received.
Federal Perkins Loans:
This kind of loan is offered to undergraduate and graduate students with exceptional financial needs. To be eligible, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient income or assets to cover your educational expenses without relying solely on the loan. To qualify for a Federal Perkins Loan, student borrowers should be enrolled at least half-time and have a valid FAFSA on file. The maximum loan amount granted is determined by the school, ranging anywhere from $1,000 to $5,500 per year.
Consolidation Loans:
Consolidation loans are available to undergraduate and graduate students who have already borrowed one or more federal student loans. This loan allows borrowers to combine multiple loans into a single loan with a fixed interest rate. The maximum loan amount is determined by your school but generally ranges from $5,500 to the total amount of all federal loans borrowed.
How to Apply for a Federal Student Loan
Eligibility criteria
In order to qualify for a federal student loan, the borrower must meet several criteria. These include:
- Being at least 18 years of age
- A U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
- Having a valid Social Security Number
- Having a high school diploma or GED
- Not having defaulted on any other federal student loans
- Passing a credit check if applying for a PLUS loan
- Making satisfactory academic progress in an eligible program
- Being enrolled at least half-time in an eligible program
Steps to Apply
In order to apply for a federal student loan, you must first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form is used to determine your eligibility for financial aid, including federal student loans. Once the FAFSA is completed and submitted, your school’s financial aid office will review your application and advise you on the next steps. Depending on your situation, you may need to submit additional documents such as tax returns and bank statements. After the necessary paperwork is collected, your school will contact you with details on how to apply for a federal student loan. Be sure to read all of the terms and conditions before signing any contracts or agreements.
Personal and financial information needed to apply for a student loan include the following:
- Social security number [parent(s)’ social security number if you’re a dependent student]
- Driver’s license (if applicable)
- Bank statements and tax returns from the previous two years [parent or graduate]
- List of all Colleges you are interested in attending
- Any other relevant financial documents
FAQs
Are there any income requirements for federal student loans?
No, there are no income requirements for federal student loans. However, your financial need will be taken into account when determining how much you can borrow.
What is the interest rate for Federal Student Loans?
Interest rates for federal student loans vary depending on the type of loan and when it was taken out. You can find more information about current and past interest rates at studentaid.gov
Can I defer payments on my federal student loan?
Yes, you may be eligible for a deferment or forbearance on your federal student loan. Speak with your school’s financial aid office to learn more about the available options.
Final Thoughts
Federal student loans can provide a great opportunity to fund your college education. If you’re interested in applying for a federal student loan, find out if you meet the eligibility requirements and read up on the terms of your loan before submitting an application. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you may be able to borrow money for your tuition and other related expenses. However, it’s important to remember that these loans must be repaid with interest, so make sure to thoroughly understand all of the terms and conditions before signing any loan contracts or agreements.
