Federal Unsubsidized Loans for Graduate Students

You must be a degree-seeking graduate student, as named by the Graduate School and enrolled at least half time (five credit hours) or conditionally admitted to the Graduate School and enrolled in at least six credit hours to be eligible for Federal Direct Unsubsidized loans.  Graduate students are not eligible to receive Subsidized loans. 

Below is specific information regarding the student loan process at UTC.  Federal Direct Unsubsidized loans are low interest student loans available to students to assist with educational cost.  Interest rate information is available at: https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/types/loans/interest-rates#older-rates

Federal Direct Loan Limits

Beginning Fall 2007, annual loan limits are:

• $20,500 for graduate and professional students. Beginning 2012-2013, graduate and professional students are eligible to receive unsubsidized loans only.

Aggregate loan limits are:

• $138,500 for graduate and professional students (including undergraduate borrowing).
   

Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan Procedures

• Students applying for Federal Direct Loans must first complete the FAFSA. Other documents may be requested once the FAFSA data is received by the UTC Financial Aid Office. Check your MyMocsNet account frequently for requested documents.

• Once your file is complete, processing time in the UTC Financial Aid Office is generally 2 - 3 weeks, although it may be increased to 4 - 6 weeks during peak processing times.

• Graduate students will automatically be offered their maximum Direct Loan amounts based on cost of attendance and outside resources.  Full or partial loan amounts can be accepted in your MyMocsNet account.

• Students borrowing Federal Direct Loans for the first time at UTC must complete Entrance Loan Counseling and a Master Promissory Note prior to receiving their first loan disbursement. 

• Exit Loan Counseling must be completed at studentaid.gov each time you graduate or you are no longer enrolled at least half time.