FAQ - Loans (Federal Student) - WIU

Financial Aid

≡ Section Menu

FAQ - Loans (Federal Student)

How do I get a federal student loan?
- Complete the following steps to obtain a Federal Direct student loan for the upcoming academic year:
  1. Complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You will automatically be considered for Federal loans if you filed the FAFSA.
  2. Receive your WIU Financial Aid Award Letter listing your federal student loan eligibility (You will be notified via your WIU email and STARS).
  3. If you are a first-time student loan borrower or if this is your first student loan at WIU you will need to complete 1) Entrance Counseling and 2) your Master Promissory Note (MPN)
  4. Register for classes (minimum 6 credit hours to be eligible).
  5. Your financial aid will be disbursed half each semester to your WIU bill when school begins.
  6. Borrow only the financial aid you need to cover your educational-related expenses. Note that you may cancel or reduce the amount of the loan any time that you desire by contacting our office through phone, email, or walk-in.
What are the annual federal student loan limits?
- See StudentAid.gov's FAQ to see an updated list of annual federal student loan limits.
What is the total (aggregate) amount of federal student loans you can borrow?
- See StudentAid.gov's FAQ to see an updated list of aggregate federal student loan limits . You can review your own federal student loan history using StudentAid.gov's Manage Loans portal.
What is an additional unsubsidized loan?
- independent students may borrow additional unsubsidized loan amounts. Dependent students whose parents cannot borrow PLUS (parent) loan may also qualify for an additional amount.
What is the difference between subsidized and unsubsidized student loans?
- Subsidized loans do not accrue interest charges while the student is enrolled at least half-time (6 credit hours) - instead, interest will begin to accrue after the student graduates or drops below half-time enrollment. Eligibility for subsidized loans is need-based and is determined by FAFSA information and other aid received.
- Unsubsdized loans do accrue interest while in school, which the student is not responsible for paying until they enter repayment. However, in-school interest payments are recommended to help reduce a student’s overall debt burden - if you would like to arrange for in-school interest payments, contact your loan servicer(s).