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Federal Direct Stafford Loans
Student Loan Limits
The federal Stafford loan programs carry both annual and cumulative(lifetime) limits. Eligibility for all Federal Direct Loans will be based on cost of attendance, the estimated family contribution (EFC) as determined by FAFSA, other aid received, and the loan limits set by the U.S. Department of Education. Students may never qualify for more than the cost of attendance for the college or the annual loan limit. The charts below show the maximum amounts you may borrow.
Annual Limits
|
Maximum
Subsidized + Unsubsidized |
Maximum
Subsidized |
|
|---|---|---|
| Dependent Freshman | $5,500 | $3,500 |
| Dependent Sophomore | $6,500 | $4,500 |
| Dependent Junior/Senior | $7,500 | $5,500 |
| Independent Freshman | $9,500 | $3,500 |
| Independent Sophomore | $10,500 | $4,500 |
| Independent Junior/Senior | $12,500 | $5,500 |
| Graduate/Professional * | $20,500 | N/A |
Lifetime Limits
| Maximum Subsidized + Unsubsidized |
Maximum Subsidized ** |
|
|---|---|---|
| Dependent Undergraduate | $31,000 | $23,000 |
| Independent Undergraduate | $57,500 | $23,000 |
| Graduate/Professional * | $138,500 | $65,500 |
* The graduate debt limit includes loans received for undergraduate study.
** Graduate subsidized Stafford loans are no longer available as the federal government has ended the subsidized loan program for graduate students.
150% Subsidized Loan Limit
Below are the maximum lengths of time for which a student can receive Direct Subsidized Loans depending on their academic program. If a student reaches the 150% Subsidized Loan Limit, they are no longer eligible to borrow any additional Direct Subsidized loans. Also, if they continue attending, they will lose the interest subsidy on their previously borrowed loans beginning on the first day of continued enrollment.
| Length of Degree Program | Maximum Eligibility Period |
|---|---|
| 2 Years | 3 Years |
| 4 Years | 6 Years |
| 5 Years | 7.5 Years |