Unsubsidized Stafford Loans, unlike Subsidized Stafford Loans, are based on students’ financial needs. Any qualifying student can be awarded an Unsubsidized Stafford Loan, regardless of financial standing. As a result, the student must pay interest while attending school until the time when the loans is paid off; however, deferred payments are an option if a student cannot pay interest during school (but it means that more interest is capitalized and added to the loan amount). Unsubsidized Stafford Loans are particularly helpful to independent students and students whose parents have been denied a PLUS loan. Subsidized and Unsubsidized Stafford Loans can be granted simultaneously. In order to qualify for an Unsubsidized Stafford Loan, a student must be enrolled half time at a minimum, must be a Permanent US Resident or Citizen, and have graduated high school (or equivalent). In order to maintain an Unsubsidized Stafford Loan, a student must perform adequately in school. There are other requirements and prerequisites that students must look into before applying for the Unsubsidized Stafford Loan. The financial aid office of the institution guides students and provides the necessary information. The maximum loan amount depends on different factors including if the loan is for an undergraduate or graduate student, if the student’s parents qualify for a PLUS loan, and if a student is dependent or independent. In order to apply for an Unsubsidized Stafford Loan, you need to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which can be attained online or through the financial aid office.