Understanding the Federal Perkins Loan [Education]: Definition and Insights

Definition & Meaning

The Federal Perkins Loan is a type of financial aid provided to students to help cover the costs of their education. This loan is specifically designed for individuals who enrolled in postsecondary education on or after July 1, 1987, and who did not have any outstanding federal education loans at that time. The Perkins Loan is a subsidized loan, meaning that the government pays the interest while the borrower is in school and during certain deferment periods.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A student attending a community college applies for a Federal Perkins Loan to help pay for tuition and fees. They qualify based on their financial need and have no prior federal loans.

Example 2: A graduate student who is enrolled in a master's program applies for a Perkins Loan to cover living expenses while studying full-time. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Federal Perkins Loan A subsidized loan for students with financial need. Interest is paid by the government while in school.
Stafford Loan A federal loan available to students regardless of financial need. Borrowers are responsible for interest during school.
PLUS Loan A federal loan for parents of dependent undergraduate students. Credit check is required; higher borrowing limits.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe you may qualify for a Federal Perkins Loan or have questions about your existing loan, consider the following steps:

  • Contact your school's financial aid office for guidance on eligibility and application processes.
  • Review your loan repayment options, including deferment and cancellation provisions.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can assist you in managing your loan documentation.
  • If you face challenges, consider seeking advice from a financial aid advisor or legal professional.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Loan Type Subsidized federal loan
Interest Rate Fixed rate (varies by year)
Repayment Period Typically 10 years
Eligibility Financial need, enrolled in eligible institution

Key takeaways