Q: I have heard that the best types of student loans to get are either the Perkins student loan or the Stafford student loan. How do I apply for a Perkins student loan or Stafford student loan to help pay for college?
A: As with all federal financial aid for college, students can apply for a Perkins or Stafford Loan by completing FAFSA, The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (www.fafsa.ed.gov). Students can learn more about FAFSA and the Federal Student Loan Programs under our Federal Student Loans section.
Once you complete the FAFSA, there is no separate student loan application that is required for Perkins or Stafford loans. Since federal student loans (such as the Perkins and Stafford) are based on a students financial need, just because you apply for them, does not necessarily mean you will qualify for them. The Perkins student loan is a very attractive student loan, however it is only extended to those students who have the most financial need. On the other hand, most students who file a FAFSA will qualify for some amount in Federal Stafford student loans.
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