Under the Stafford Loan, any student, regardless of financial status, academic standing and credit history is eligible.  For as long as the student is studying in a government-recognized university or college, the Stafford Loan can be availed.

The Federal Family Education Loan Program utilizes financing institutions to distribute the Stafford Loan.  On the other hand, the Direct federal Student Loan Program directly gives the loan to the student from the government.

Subsidized Stafford Loans refer to the Stafford Loan type wherein interest rate that is collected during the period when the student is still studying is covered by the government.  Given this nature, the subsidized Stafford Loan is only offered to financially needy students.

On the other hand, unsubsidized Stafford Loans refer to the Stafford Loan type wherein the interest rates are solely covered by the student that can either be paid during the school period or may be added on to the principle amount.  All students can avail of this type of Stafford Loan.

A maximum of $18,500 per year is allowed to graduate students with a $65,500 total limit for graduate and undergraduate federal loans for dependent students.  Independent students are allowed a cumulative total of $138,500 yearly for graduate and undergraduate courses.

Apart from the 6-month period where payments on interests or principal amount are not required after graduation, Stafford Loans also offer benefits such as forbearance and deferment during times of financial hardships.