Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships
Student Loan

I received William D. Ford Direct Student Loans at my previous institution. Can I receive this type of loan at ESF?

Yes. All federal student loans are now processed through the Direct Loan Program.

What is the difference between subsidized and unsubsidized student loans?

Eligibility for subsidized or unsubsidized loan funding is determined by the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships. Students do not need to make payments on either type of loan while in school. However, interest will accrue for unsubsidized Stafford Loans. The interest for subsidized Stafford Loans is paid to the lender by the federal government. In other words, there is no interest for the student on subsidized loans while he/she is enrolled at least half-time as a matriculated student.

I completed a Direct Loan Master Promissory Note at my previous institution. Do I have to complete a new note for SUNY ESF?

No. An existing Master Promissory Note completed while at a different institution can be used for loans at ESF.  The existing note must be active and unexpired.

I have borrowed Direct Loans at my previous institution. Am I still required to complete an Entrance Interview at SUNY-ESF?

No. An existing Entrance Counseling session completed while at a different institution can be used for loans at ESF.

Why wasn't I offered a Federal Perkins Loan?

As a campus-based form of aid, funding for the Federal Perkins Loan Program is limited. As a result, each school must offer awards based on institutional policy, student need level, and available funding. In order to maximize eligibility for Perkins Loan funding, students are highly encouraged to complete the FAFSA before the March 1st priority deadline each year.