Since these are loans, you will be required to pay them back after you leave school.

A federal subsidized Stafford loan may be offered to you if your FAFSA results, cost of attendance, and any other aid you receive leaves you with some unmet financial aid need. These loans are called “subsidized” because the U.S. Department of Education pays the interest while you are enrolled in at least half-time status (6 or more credit hours at VU) and during the six-month grace period after you leave school or drop below half-time status.

A federal unsubsidized Stafford loan may be offered to you if your financial aid need is met but your annual loan limit is not met or if your parent’s application for a federal PLUS loan was denied. These loans are called “unsubsidized” because the U.S. Department of Education does not pay any of the interest. You can pay the interest while you’re in school, or you can allow it to accumulate and be added to the principal amount of the loan.

Whether you borrow either a subsidized or an unsubsidized federal Stafford loan, we strongly urge you to borrow only the amount you need to cover your expenses. This can help you reduce the amount you need to pay back after you are finished with your education.