or call 877-328-1565
Graduate Stafford Loan
Graduate loan programs are typically high cost academic programs that may be challenging to finance. The best first step, though, is to look into Federal loan funding. Stafford Loans are guaranteed by the government and have low, fixed interest rates.
There are two types of Stafford graduate loans, subsidized and unsubsidized. The subsidized Stafford Loan is awarded based on financial need. The federal government subsidizes the interest until students enter repayment and during deferment periods.
Unsubsidized Stafford Loans are not awarded based on financial needs. Any eligible student can borrow unsubsidized Stafford Loan funds. Students will be charged interest from the time the loan is disbursed until the loan is repaid in full.
Graduate Stafford loans (both subsidized and unsubsidized) have been set at a fixed rate of 6.8% through 2013.
Apply now online or call 877-328-1565
Graduate Stafford Loan Requirements
- You must have submitted a FAFSA application.
- For Subsidized Stafford Loans, you must have financial need as determined by your school.
- You must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or eligible non-citizen.
- You must be enrolled at least half-time.
- You must not be in default on any education loan or owe a refund on an education grant.
Graduate Stafford Loan Borrowing Amounts
| Graduate/Professional Student | |
|---|---|
| 1st Year | $18,500 - No more than $8,500 can be in subsidized loans |
| 2nd Year | |
| 3rd and 4th Years (and 5th year, where applicable) | |
| Maximum Total Debt from Stafford Loans: | $138,000 - No more than $65,500 can be in subsidized loans.
The graduate Stafford Loan debt limit includes Stafford Loans received for undergraduate study. |
Often times, Stafford Loan funds don't cover the entire cost of your graduate education. The Act Education Graduate Loan is the perfect solution and will bridge the gap between what you received in Federal Stafford funds and what you actually need. Remember, before you look into private graduate loan financing, apply for the Stafford loan.
