To apply for and receive federal financial aid, students must be enrolled at least half-time (8 credits) and maintain satisfactory academic progress.
Subsidized loans are available to students who meet certain financial-need criteria, usually based on income. The federal government pays the interest on subsidized loans and defers repayment of the principal while the student attends school, during a six-month grace period after the student leaves school, and during periods when the student is authorized to defer loan payments.
Unsubsidized loans are available to students regardless of financial need. Interest accumulates on unsubsidized loans from their inception while attending school, during the grace period, and during any periods when loan payments are deferred. Repayment of the principal is deferred until six months after the student graduates or withdraws from the program.