There are limits to how much you can borrow each academic year and in total. Your limits depend on whether you’re a dependent or independent student.
Annual Federal Loan Limits by Year in School
| Year in School |
Dependent Students |
Independent Students |
| First Year |
$5,500 (max $3,500 subsidized) |
$9,500 (max $3,500 subsidized) |
| Second Year |
$6,500 (max $4,500 subsidized) |
$10,500 (max $4,500 subsidized) |
| Total (Undergrad) |
$31,000 (max $23,000 subsidized) |
$57,500 (max $23,000 subsidized) |
You cannot borrow more than your cost of attendance, and not everyone qualifies for the full subsidized amount.
To borrow a federal student loan, follow these steps:
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Submit your FAFSA.
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Make sure your financial aid file is complete.
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Log in to Self Service through Atlantic Cape Connect and request your loan.
Before your loan is disbursed, you must also complete:
Complete both at studentaid.gov
Most federal student loans enter repayment six months after you graduate, leave school, or drop below half-time enrollment.
If you’re having trouble making payments, contact your loan servicer. They may be able to help you set up an income-driven repayment plan, deferment, or forbearance.
Learn about repayment and default options
Federal loans are submitted to the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) and are visible to other schools, servicers, and federal agencies. You have the right to:
In accordance with HEOA 489 Amended HEA Sec. 485B, Atlantic Cape Community College is required to disclose to all borrowers that any loan borrowed by a student or eligible parent will be submitted to the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS). The information reported to NSLDS will be accessible by guarantee agencies, lenders, and institutions determined to be authorized users of the data system.
Borrowers may review their NSLDS history and information at any time at studentaid.gov.
For more information, visit
Resources on how to manage your loan
