Free Application for Federal Student Loans (FAFSA)

The Free Application for Federal Student Loans (FAFSA) is a confidential statement detailing information about your family’s financial circumstances.

When you have completed the form, you submit it directly to the U.S. Department of Education.

Using a formula mandated by Congress, the U.S. Department of Education makes an evaluation of your family’s strength and estimates the amount your family can contribute annually toward your educational expenses.  This financial statement is the first step in order to apply for all Federal Direct Stafford Loans. 

The FAFSA is available each year beginning October 1st and should be completed as soon as possible.

For complete information regarding federal loans including the application process and repayment, please refer to the Federal Student Aid Program with the Department of Education here. 

When Are the Key Deadlines? 

• October 1, 2025, is the TAU Lowy International School deadline for FAFSA applications. (August 1, 2025 for TESOL Students) 
• Processing of loans for the 2025-26 academic year will not begin until Summer 2025. 

Am I Eligible for a U.S. Federal Loan? 

To qualify according to U.S. Federal Aid guidelines, you must: 

• Be a U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident 
• Have a valid Social Security Number 
• Be enrolled in a full-degree program at The Lowy International School that is eligible for the Direct Loan program 
• Be enrolled at least half-time (a minimum of six credits per semester) 
• Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements 
• Must not be in default on a federal student loan or owe payment on a federal student grant 
• Be below the aggregate borrowing limit: See limits here. 

What Programs Are Eligible for U.S. Federal Loans?

To review the list of eligible programs, please refer to the 2025–26 academic calendar to determine whether you qualify for a U.S. federal loan.

Make sure your program is not on the list of Programs Ineligible for Financial Aid