Federal Direct Loans help students and families pay for educational expenses over time. Unlike grants and scholarships, loans must be repaid with interest. Because borrowing is a long-term financial commitment, students are encouraged to borrow only what they need.
Before You Borrow
First-time Federal Direct Loan borrowers must complete Entrance Counseling and a Master Promissory Note (MPN) at StudentAid.gov.
Types of Federal Direct Loans
Direct Subsidized Loans, Direct Unsubsidized Loans, Parent PLUS Loans, and Grad PLUS Loans are available to eligible borrowers.
Maximum Parent PLUS Loan Eligibility
Parents may borrow no more than $20,000 a year. Total borrowing cannot exceed the student’s remaining Cost of Attendance. Parent Borrowers must complete the on studentaid.gov as well as a . Some parents may need to complete additional counseling if they have a cosigner on the loan.
Loan Limits
Federal Direct Loan annual and aggregate borrowing limits are established by federal law and are based on grade level, dependency status, program level, and enrollment status. are available at StudentAid.gov. Please see our Big Beautiful Bill information for additional updates on loan borrowing limits.
Enrollment Status and Loan Eligibility
Federal Direct Loans generally require students to be enrolled at least half-time in an eligible degree or certificate program. Students enrolled less than half-time are not eligible to receive Federal Direct Loans. Eligibility and loan amounts may be adjusted if enrollment changes during the academic year.
Important Disclosure
The loan amounts shown on a student financial aid offer are based on federal eligibility requirements and enrollment status and may be less than the maximum loan amounts published by the U.S. Department of Education.