Are graduate and professional students eligible for subsidized loans?
No, graduate and professional students are no longer eligible to receive Direct Subsidized Loans.
This change went into effect starting with the 2012-2013 academic year as a result of federal legislation. While subsidized loans are no longer available for graduate or professional students, you may still qualify for up to $20,500 per year in Direct Unsubsidized Loans.
Unlike subsidized loans, interest on unsubsidized loans begins accruing as soon as the loan is disbursed, and you are responsible for paying the interest during all periods. You can review your full loan history and details by logging into the Federal Student Aid website.
Note: This does not reflect the new stipulations introduced by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), which significantly reshapes federal student loan eligibility and limits for graduate and professional students starting July 1, 2026.