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Do I qualify for financial aid if I’m in a graduate program?

To qualify for Federal Unsubsidized Loans, you must be enrolled at least half-time in a graduate or doctoral program. The amount of aid you can receive depends on your grade level and the academic year, which may vary annually.

  • Standard Graduate: 6 credits
  • Doctoral Programs: 3 credits

Please note that beginning with the 2026–2027 aid year, Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans are no longer available. However, if you are a graduate student and meet certain conditions, you may be allowed to continue to borrow under the Direct PLUS Loan program. Please visit the Graduate PLUS Loan page for more guidance. 

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