The amount you’re eligible to receive for direct subsidized loans depends on your demonstrated financial need determined by the FAFSA. For direct unsubsidized loans, you are typically offered the maximum annual amount as long as you are eligible to receive financial aid. If you are close to reaching your lifetime limit for direct subsidized/unsubsidized loans, the amount you are eligible to receive might be less than the annual limit. The lifetime limit for subsidized loans is $23,000 while the combined limit for subsidized/unsubsidized loans is $31,000.