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What criteria are used to determine eligibility for federal student aid?

January 24, 2024

To apply for federal student aid, you must:

  • Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
  • Have a valid SSN or Alien Registration Number
  • Be registered with Selective Service, if you are male and between the ages of 18 and 25
  • Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment at least half-time (4.5 credits per term) in an eligible degree program
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress
  • Not currently be in default on previous student loans borrowed through FSA
  • Not have exceeded the maximum aggregate loan limit

Note: the Federal Unsubsidized Loan is not based on income or financial need.