Graduate students can get federal student loans, but they cannot receive the Direct Subsidized Loan, which is only for undergraduates. Instead, their only option is Direct Unsubsidized Loans.
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans
- Eligibility: All graduate students who meet the basic criteria for federal aid can receive these loans, regardless of financial need.
- Borrowing limit: The maximum annual amount is $20,500 for graduate students and $50,000 for professional students (such as medical doctors).
- Interest: Interest begins to accrue immediately after the loan is disbursed.
- Credit check: There is no credit check is for this loan.
How to apply for federal student loans
The first step in applying for federal loans is to submit the FAFSA form (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Your school's financial aid office will review your FAFSA and let you know how much aid you can get in an award letter.
