Student loan information
January 11th, 2008 by loanStudent loan information
Student loan information regarding both federal and private student loans can be found all over the Internet. Web sites like school loan.org offer student loan information covering details from finding a loan to its payoff. Here is a breakdown on two commonly used loans for school.
Federal Stafford Loan
A federal loan taken out by the student, a Federal Stafford Loan can be used to pay for direct educational costs that are not covered by grants. In order to be eligible for a loan, the borrower has to be enrolled at least part time. Repayment of the loan begins six to nine months after the student graduates or exits school.
Stafford Loans come in two forms –unsubsidized and subsidized. Subsidized loans are awarded based on financial need. Unsubsidized loans are not based on financial need as determined by the U.S. Department of Education. Interest is always charged on the loan – including times of deferment and the grace period. The government subsidizes the more appealing subsidized student loan. This loan program features no interest charges during while the student is in school or deferment. Students who demonstrate financial need qualify for this loan.
According to student loan information provided by the U.S. Department of Education, Federal Stafford Loans can total more than $20,000 a year depending on the student’s dependency status and grade level.
Private Student Loans
There are several benefits to private student loans. Unlike federally backed funding, private funding does not require the lengthy process of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Instead, borrowers can apply via the Internet with a smaller application. In return, a fast credit decision is provided to the student. Private funding is available students who study in American and abroad. With an eligible co-signer, international students may also qualify for private loans. Repayment for the loan does not begin until after the student leaves school or graduates. Private lenders do not have the ability to offer borrowers ultra-low interest rates like that of the Stafford loans. They can, however, provide hiher loan limits.