There are two different types of Stafford Loans, subsidized and unsubsidized.
- Subsidized loans are awarded based on financial need. You will not be charged interest before you begin repayment or during periods of deferment. The federal government "subsidizes" the interest during these times.
- Unsubsidized loans are not awarded based on financial needs. Any eligible student can take out unsubsidized stafford loans. You will be charged interest from the time the loan is disbursed, to the time the loan is repaid in full.
How much can I borrow?
| 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 debt limit includes Stafford Loans received for undergraduate study. |
