In some cases, you may find that other financial aid sources can come up short. The federal government designed the Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP) to help families by offering low-interest rate loans to help pay for a college education. They are:

The Federal Subsidized Stafford Loan
The Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loan
The Federal Parent Loan For Undergraduate Students (PLUS)


These loans are made directly to the student, however, you must be eligible for these loans, and your college must certify your eligibility. There are limits for each federal loan. Our Loan Comparison Chart can tell you more about eligibility, limits, interest rates and other details.

You might want to go ahead and find out about the loan application process.

Remember that a loan MUST be paid back - with interest. You should not borrow more than you really need. Too much debt can limit your options in the future, limiting your choice of jobs and personal plans. Use our budget worksheet to help keep control of you expenses and your borrowing.