The maximum repayment term is 25 years. When subsidized loans are deferred, principal payments are postponed, and interest is not charged. On unsubsidized loans, the interest continues to accrue even though principal payments are postponed. If you do not qualify for deferment but are having difficulty repaying your loans, you may request a forbearance from your lender. This is the temporary postponement or reduction of your monthly payment, which often results in the extension of the repayment period.
Interest continues to accrue during forbearance, causing the total loan amount to increase.