Federal Loans
Federal student loans are government-backed, or guaranteed. They are low-cost, fixed-rate loans that may be subsidized (based on need) or unsubsidized (not based on need). Subsidized loans begin to accrue (accumulate) interest when repayment begins (six months after you leave school or your attendance drops below half-time), while unsubsidized loans begin to accrue interest as soon as the loan is fully disbursed. Award amounts are based on grade year classifications and vary each year.
