Why did I receive less than what I applied for in Stafford Loan funds?
Federal Stafford Loan
- Fixed interest rate of 6.8%
- Zero fees (you save 2%)
- No credit check is required
Federal PLUS Loan
For parents or guardians of undergraduate students. A low interest rate of 8.25% and a viable alternative if you have been declined for, or choose not to take a private student loan.
Lenders retain a percentage of the amount you borrow in guarantee fees and/or origination fees. Guarantee fees are used by the lender in creating a reserve to protect the loan program in instances when borrowers default on their loans. Origination fees are a processing fee retained by lenders. Therefore, what you actually receive will be the awarded amount minus the fees.
In some cases a student may not be eligible for the total maximum in Stafford Loan funds but rather a portion based on their FAFSA determination. For example: The Stafford Loan limit maximum for a freshman student is $3,500 but based on their FAFSA determination, a student may only be eligible to borrow $2,000 for that particular academic year.Do you have a question that hasn't been answered? Contact us and we'll be glad to help you.
Stafford Loan Frequently Asked Questions
- Am I eligible for a Stafford Loan?
- How do I apply for a Stafford Loan?
- Are there Stafford Loan deadlines?
- What's the difference between unsubsidized and subsidized loans?
- When do I receive the Stafford Loan funds?
- What are the Stafford Loan interest rates?
- How much can I borrow under a Stafford Loan?
- What is EFC and how is it calculated?
- What can I use a Stafford Loan for?
- Are there specific schools that accept Stafford Loans?
- Why did I receive less than what I thought I would receive in Stafford Loan funds?
- Do I have to apply for a Stafford Loan every academic year?
- Can I receive a Stafford Loan if I have bad credit/declared bankruptcy/have late payments on credit cards?
- How can I bridge the financial gap between the total cost of education (including room and board, fees, books) and the amount of financial aid I was awarded?
- Will I pay any fees for a Stafford Loan?
- What are the repayment options for a Stafford Loan?
- What are the penalties for early payment or if the loan is paid in full before scheduled (deferred) payments begin?
- What are the Stafford Loan cancellation policies?
