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The Federal Perkins Loan has a low interest rate and a longer grace period than the other educational loans, and allows you to borrow up to $4,000 (undergraduate study) or $6,000 (graduate study) annually. This loan is available to undergraduate and graduate student who demonstrate exceptional financial need, and must be repaid to the school with the low interest rate of five percent. Repayment begins nine months after you’ve graduated or dropped below half-time enrollment status. The minimum monthly payment is $40 per month. Apply for the Federal Perkins Loan by completing your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Your college is the lender for the loan, so you will be asked to sign a promissory note and will receive the loan funds from your college.
In some instances, you may be eligible to postpone your loan payment by receiving a deferment. During a period of deferment the federal government will pay the interest on your loan.
A Federal Perkins Loan may be cancelled in part or whole under certain conditions. Loan cancellation, forgiveness, or discharge is granted by the U.S. Department of Education.
You can receive both a Federal Perkins and a Federal Stafford loan in the same academic year, provided you meet all eligibility requirements.
Additional information regarding the Federal Perkins Loan is available at the online version of Funding Education Beyond High School: The Guide to Federal Student Aid, provided by the U.S. Department of Education.
Click here to access the online Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
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