This loan is available to independent undergraduate and graduate students who are enrolled at least half-time in a degree or teacher certification program who do not demonstrate a financial need based upon the information provided as a result of the completion of their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The annual limit is $6,000 for the first and second year undergraduates. Students who have achieved third or fourth year status are eligible to borrow up to $7,000 annually, and graduate students may borrow up to $20,500 annually, not to exceed the cost of education. These amounts are in addition to the Direct Subsidized Loan amounts.
The subsidized and unsubsidized Direct Loan interest rates are variable and adjusted on an annual basis every July 1, but will not exceed 8.25%. Borrowers are assessed an origination/guarantee fee which is deducted prior to the disbursement of the loan to HBU. Repayment begins six months after dropping below half-time. The student is responsible for the interest that accrues on the Direct Unsubsidized Loan during in-school and deferment periods.
Annual maximum award:
- $6,000 – Freshman/Sophomore
- $7,000 – Junior/Senior
- $20,500 – Graduate
Aggregate limits:
- Undergraduate Dependent Students: $31,000 (no more than $23,000 of which can be subsidized)
- Undergraduate Independent Students: $57,500 (no more than $23,000 of which can be subsidized)
- Graduate Students: $138,500 (prior to July 1, 2012, no more than $65,500 of which can be subsidized)
