If I drop courses, will that affect how much I can borrow in Direct Unsubsidized Loans?

Yes, your loan eligibility is determined by your percentage of full-time status. The less credits you take while at a half-time status, the less you are eligible to borrow in Direct Unsubsidized Loans. 

If you drop courses after your loan is disbursed, your loan will not be adjusted, but it will affect how much you’re eligible for in future terms.

What if I only want a loan for a single term? Do I have to borrow loans for every term in the academic year?

No, you can still choose what term(s) you would like to borrow a loan for, but Student Financial Services will still be required to calculate your maximum eligible loan amount based on your half-time or full-time status.

How do I know if I will be a “legacy” borrower or “new” borrower beginning next academic year?

If you have borrowed a Direct Unsubsidized Loan in your current program of study while at Relay and remain enrolled in that program by July 1, 2026, you would be considered a “legacy” borrower and eligible for the previous Graduate lifetime limit, $138,500.00

What if I transfer programs or take an approved Leave of Absence and return to Relay after July 1, 2026?

You would be considered a “new” borrower and subject to the new Graduate lifetime loan limit, $100,000.00.

Can I still borrow Direct Unsubsidized Loans for the new school year if I am a “new” borrower and have previously borrowed over $100,000.00 in graduate loans?

No, you would be ineligible for any additional graduate loans while you are at or above the new $100,000.00 limit.

Can I apply for a Graduate PLUS loan to compensate for my reduced Direct Loan borrowing?

Relay Graduate School of Education does not currently offer the Graduate PLUS loan.

The Federal Direct Graduate PLUS loan program will be eliminated for “new” graduate borrowers beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year.