August 29, 2010
Stafford Student Loans - Shall You Use It?
Stafford student loans are available to undergraduate and graduate students that make the proof of half time enrollment with accredited educational institutions, regardless of subject i.e. studying landscaping and landscape edging or or visiting a forensics school. Stafford student loans thus become some of the most convenient loans available because they have low interest rates, they come in subsidized and unsubsidized variants and the repayment terms are very rewarding. There are different needs for every student, and Stafford student loans are structured to meet the lender's individual needs too.
Here are some of the main benefits of these federal loans:
- The interest rate is not higher than 5.6%. Only the Perkins loan has a lower interest than that, only 5%.
- you don't have to pay anything while in school;
- repayment starts between six months and a year after graduation;
- Stafford student loans do not require a credit report.
You have to meet some eligibility criteria.
Start by submitting the FAFSA form.
You must prove your dire financial situation.
Get at least half time enrollment with an accredited academic institution.
Only US citizens and permanent residents qualify for Stafford student loans.
Stafford student loans may not be enough to cover the full expenses of your education. It is important to try and get access to some scholarships or grants. You can also reduce the amount you have to pay by using personal savings and whatever money presents you can get from your family.
The approval conditions for Stafford student loans also bear the influence of several other elements. The dependency status mentioned in the FAFSA form is very important. It refers to whether you are married or not, whether you have children or some other dependents, whether you are independent or your parents support you and much more. Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces and military serving in active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces benefit from special conditions for Stafford student loans.
The elements we've mentioned above can help you maximize your financial aid package. Your status as a dependent or independent student thus determines you options for Stafford student loans. A student that has a regular income will always be more eligible for a federal loan than one that depends on his/her parents.
Filed under African American Scholarships by Cathy
