Federal Direct Loans
To help with expenses related to higher education, the federal government offers students a low-cost loan called the Federal Direct Loan. There are two types of Direct Loans: subsidized and unsubsidized.
- Subsidized Direct Loans* are awarded based on financial need. The government pays the interest while the student is in school, during the grace period and during authorized periods of deferment.
- Unsubsidized Direct Loans are not based on financial need, and the borrower is responsible for the interest throughout the life of the loan.
*Due to changes in the Federal regulations, beginning Fall 2012, graduate/professional students will no longer be offered subsidized loans. Annual loan limits have not changed, only the elimination of the subsidized loan eligibility.
Loan amounts are determined by the SIUE Office of Financial Aid, based on the student's academic level and the total amount of Direct Loans he/she has borrowed. All first-time borrowers must complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN) and Entrance Counseling. These can be completed by visiting StudentLoans.gov. Continuing Direct Loan borrowers may also need to complete a new MPN.
To apply, please visit studentloans.gov.
