In order to qualify for direct federal loans you must be enrolled in a degree-seeking program at least half-time for each semester that you are enrolled and have a
FAFSA on file. Direct Loans are offered automatically after you have completed your financial aid file. You must also not have exceeded the annual or aggregate federal loan limits.
The government sets annual and lifetime limits on government student loans. They are based on your grade level and if your parent’s information was required on the FAFSA. The chart below summarizes the current limits for the Federal Direct Loans:
| Grade Level | Dependent Undergraduate | Independent Undergraduate | Graduate/Professional |
1st Year - Freshman
(0-24 credits earned) | $5,500 - No more than $3,500 of this amount may be in Subsidized Loans. | $9,500 - No more than $3,500 of this amount may be in Subsidized Loans. | $20,500 - Unsubsidized Loans only. |
2nd Year - Sophomore
(25-55 credits earned) | $6,500 - No more than $4,500 of this amount may be in Subsidized Loans. | $10,500 - No more than $4,500 of this amount may be in Subsidized Loans. | $20,500 - Unsubsidized Loans only. |
3rd & 4th Year - Junior/Senior
(56+ credits earned) | $7,500 - No more than $5,500 of this amount may be in Subsidized Loans. | $12,500 - No more than $5,500 of this amount may be in Subsidized Loans. | $20,500 - Unsubsidized Loans only. |
| Maximum Total Debt from Direct Loans (i.e., your aggregate loan limit) | $31,000 - No more than $23,000 of this amount may be in Subsidized Loans. | $57,500 - No more than $23,000 of this amount may be in Subsidized Loans. | $138,500 - Includes Direct Loans received as an undergraduate and graduate student. |
Monitor your Direct Loan aggregate and annual loan limits on the
National Student Loan Database System. You will need your FSA ID and password to log in. Once your limit is reached, you will not be eligible to receive any additional Federal Direct Loans. If you exceed your loan limits, your award could be reduced or canceled after you have received the funds.
You may also view
annual and lifetime limits online. You may also view general loan information and the
types of loans that are available online. Before borrowing, it is important to consider how much you need. Remember, all loans must be repaid with
interest. Use a
loan payment calculator to investigate how much your monthly payment may be if you decide to accept loans.
Need additional help? Access 24/7 live chat, create a case from
My ASU Service Center or call 855-278-5080.
