Aid Programs
MSU College of Law is a Direct Loan school which means you do not need to look for a lender; all students use the Direct Loan program for federal loans. Although fees are deducted from each disbursement of your Direct Loans, you do receive a rebate. For more information about Direct Loans please visit http://www2.ed.gov/offices/OSFAP/DirectLoan/student.html
There are two types of loans available under the Federal Stafford Loan Program:
- The Subsidized Loan is a low interest, need-based loan. The federal government waives the interest on these loans while students are in school at least half-time and during certain other times, such as grace periods and deferments.*
- The Unsubsidized Loan is available to students who may not qualify for a Subsidized Loan or who qualify for less than the full subsidized annual loan maximum. Students can get these loans regardless of financial need but interest charges will be accruing.
You may be eligible to receive both Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, but the yearly total of both loans must not exceed the federal loan limits of $20,500 (maximum $8,500 subsidized). In addition, the lifetime limits for all Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans may not exceed $138,500 (maximum $65,500 Subsidized). The lifetime debt limit includes loans received for undergraduate and graduate study. You must be enrolled at least half-time (five credits) to receive the Stafford Loan.
GradPLUS is another federal loan option that helps meet the cost of attendance.
Whether you are a first-time or continuing borrower you are encouraged to view the Department of education publication "Your Federal Student Loans: Learn the Basics and Manage Your Debt".
Alternative Loans
Alternative loans are non-need, credit-based loans which may be used to replace other forms of financial assistance. To be eligible for an alternative loan, you must meet the criteria established by the specific lender. Although annual loan minimums and aggregate loan limits vary from lender to lender, the maximum annual limit for an alternative loan must not exceed a student's cost of education minus any other aid received. The lender sets aggregate loan limits.
Federal Work Study
The Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program is a need-based work program subsidized by the federal government. Employers usually are private, non-profit organizations or local, state or federal public agencies, and the work performed must be in the public interest. Work awards are paid directly to the student. Additional information about Work-Study can be obtained here.
Scholarships and Grants can come from many sources, including MSU Law, state agencies, private foundations, professional and service organizations and the federal government. These funds do not have to be repaid.
- Further information may be obtained in the Federal Student Guide.
* Subsidized loans will no longer be available starting in Fall 2012.