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What is a Federal Direct Student Loan?

The Federal Direct Student Loan is available from the U.S. Department of Education. The loan proceeds are delivered to the school for eligible students and is available to both undergraduate and graduate students to help pay for their educational costs. ASU disburses the loans after they have been approved and processed and classes have begun.

How to apply for a Federal Direct Student Loan

1. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). ASU’s school code is 001090.
2. Complete the Entrance Counseling at www.studentloans.gov
3. Complete the Subsidized/Unsubsidized Master Promissory Note at www.studentloans.gov
4. Loans must be accepted online by logging into Banner Self Service through mycampus.astate.edu
5. Loans will be disbursed directly to your ASU Student Account

Note: Students must complete the FAFSA every year to continue to apply for a Federal Direct Student Loan.

The Subsidized Federal Direct Student Loan

Eligibility for subsidized loans is based on financial need as determined by federal guidelines. A loan is called "subsidized" because the government pays interest for the student during:

At least half-time enrollment in school (6 or more hours) and the six-month grace period after the student ceases attendance on at least a half-time basis.

The Unsubsidized Federal Direct Student Loan

This type of loan is available to students regardless of income or need. With an unsubsidized loan, you are responsible for all interest that accrues during in school, grace and deferment periods. You may choose to pay the interest portion only while in school, which would keep your loan balance at principal. If you choose to defer such payments, the interest will be capitalized.

What is a Master promissory Note?

A Master Promissory Note is a signed agreement promising payment of a sum of money, i.e. by signing a Master Promissory Note for a Federal Direct Loan the student is agreeing to repay their loan proceeds to their designated servicer. Complete your Master Promissory Note (MPN) at www.studentloans.gov.

Why must a student complete an entrance interview?

The Entrance Interview provides the student detailed information on the Federal Direct Student Loan Program. It is very important for the student to understand their rights and responsibilities when borrowing money for school. Complete your Entrance Interview at www.studentloans.gov.

How much can I borrow?

Click here to view the Federal Student Aid Direct Loan website with information regarding loan amounts.

When do I begin to repay my Federal Direct Loans?

Each student is given a period of time before loan repayment begins; this is called a “grace period”. The Federal Direct Loan grace period is six months after the student graduates, leaves school, or drops below half time status. Once a student exceeds their grace period, they must begin loan repayment. Federal Direct Loans are repaid to the holder of the loan, with 10-25 years to repay, depending on the total amount the student has borrowed.

For additional information login to www.studentaid.ed.gov.

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