Federal Direct Loans

Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans are borrowed funds that you must begin to repay, with interest, after you graduate or stop attending at least half-time (6 credits). They must be used for educationally related expenses, such as tuition, books, housing, and any other school-related expenses. They have low interest rates and offer flexible repayment terms, benefits, and options. Interest for subsidized loans is paid by the federal government while you are attending school at least half time, while unsubsidized loans begin to accrue interest upon disbursement.  All students must first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If you are eligible for a loan, an offer will be included on your Financial Aid Offer Letter.

To borrow a Federal Direct Subsidized or Unsubsidized loan, you must enroll in a minimum of 6 credits of financial aid eligible coursework each term and accept your subsidized and/or unsubsidized loan offers in ctcLink.

If you wish to accept your loan offers, log in to your ctcLink student homepage, click on the Financial Aid tile, then the appropriate aid year, and the "Accept/Decline Awards" hyperlink.

For more information about Direct loans, go to the Department of Education’s loan page

Additional Information