How to Apply for a Federal Direct Stafford Loan

Step 1.  Complete the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA).  The FAFSA is the Department of Education's online application which is required for anyone requesting federal financial aid. Once you have completed this form, the information will be sent to your school's financial aid office.  Your financial aid package will be calculated and awarded to you via ACES.

Step 2.  Graduate students Only ---- Complete the Loan Application Request Form.
              Nursing students Only ---- Complete the School of Nursing Financial Aid Application.

Step 3.  Log in to ACES and accept your loan.

Step 4.  If you are a first time Stafford Loan borrower, you are required to complete an online Entrance Counseling session.   The purpose of the counseling session is to inform you of your rights and responsibilities associated with the loan.  The entrance counseling takes about 30 minutes to complete.

Step 5.  Complete the Federal Direct Loan Application and Master Promissory Note.  If you are a first time borrower through the Federal Direct Student Loan Program, you must apply for the Stafford Loan on the Department of Education's website and electronically sign the Master Promissory Note.

*Note: The Federal Direct Stafford Loan will not disburse to the student's bursar account until 10 days prior to the start of classes each semester.  For loans processed during the academic year, please allow 10 business days for disbursement (provided all steps have been completed).