Federal loans to you or your parents can help finance your education at Susquehanna.
Direct Loans
There are two types of Federal Direct Loans: subsidized and unsubsidized.
Subsidized loans
These are awarded based upon demonstrated financial need. Interest is not charged while you are enrolled at least half-time or otherwise qualify for a deferment. The federal government “subsidizes” (or pays) the interest during these times. Repayment begins six months after you graduate, leave college entirely or are no longer enrolled at least half-time. The interest rate on this type of loan is 2.75% for loans disbursed for the 2020-2021 academic year.
These are available to all students because they are not based on financial need. The interest rate is also 2.75% and accrues from the time the loan is disbursed until it is repaid in full. There is no payment due until six months after you are no longer enrolled at least half-time. However, you are strongly encouraged to make interest payments during your time in college or else accrued interest will capitalize on the loan.
You may borrow annually through the Federal Direct Loan program.
If you borrow the full Direct Loan amount available in each academic year, your cumulative borrowing will total $27,000, as outlined below:
First year: $5,500 (up to $3,500 may be Subsidized)
Sophomore: $6,500 (up to $4,500 may be Subsidized)
Junior: $7,500 (up to $5,500 may be Subsidized)
Senior: $7,500 (up to $7,500 may be Subsidized)
Step 1: Complete your entrance counseling online
First time borrowers must complete entrance counseling prior to applying for a Federal Direct Loan. Parents should not complete the session on behalf of their students, as this is a federal requirement designed to benefit each student’s understanding of his/her rights and responsibilities.
- Visit studentaid.gov
- Click the “Manage Loans” tab.
- Click on “Complete Entrance Counseling” Under the “I’m Starting School or In School” section.
- Log in with your FSA ID and Password
- Your results will be sent to Susquehanna electronically.
Note: If you previously borrowed under our Federal Stafford Loan process, you do not need to complete entrance counseling again. However, if you would like a refresher, all students can complete the above process for their Federal Direct Loans.
Step 2: Complete your Master Promissory Note (MPN) online
Borrowers must complete an MPN at studentaid.gov
- Under the “Complete Aid Process” tab select “Complete Master Promissory Note”
- Select “Log In To Start” in the “I’m an Undergraduate Student” section.
- Once completed, Susquehanna University will be automatically notified.