Anyone know how this works? (federal loans for 8 non-continuous semesters in a 5 year program)

Paying for College Financial Aid (Need-Based, Merit Aid, Loans)
1

My D24 in currently enrolled in a 5 year program, where she is on co-op for one semester each of year 3 and 4. She has taken the federal loans for both semesters of years 1 and 2, and we anticipate needing her to take them for each of her remaining 4 semesters.

So, while she does not need disbursement of funds for fall 2026, she will need for Spring 2027, repeat the same pattern for the 27/28 academic year, and then will need for both semesters of the 28/29 AY.

If she doesn’t take the loan fall 2026, does she forfeit that amount ($3750), or does it remain available for her to use in year 5?

2

It remains available for year 5. Normally repayment begins 6 months after a student leaves school, but as long as the gap does not exceed 9 months, she’s okay. The situation should be discussed with your loan provider in advance.

1 Like