A contribution of zero can be attributed to family size, dependency status of the student to their parents and family income. I would not take as many classes to balance out work and school, if I did not receive Financial Aid. All students are eligible for loans. Financial need determines whether the loan offered is subsidized or unsubsidized. A subsidized Stafford Loan is granted to students who demonstrate financial need.
Interest accrued is paid by the government.
An unsubsidized Stafford Loan is granted to students who do not demonstrate as much need as other students. Interest is paid by the student while attending school or may be added to the loan principal. The priority deadline is set annually for March 2, on federal funding allotted to Cal State Fullerton students. These programs have very limited funding. The Federal Perkins Loan, at 5 percent interest, was given to 534 students.