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Home :: Consolidation LoansConsolidation LoansConsolidation loans help students and parents to consolidate several types of federal student loans into one loan. Consolidation loans simplify repayment of loans by students and parents. Even if a student has just one loan, this loan can be consolidated into a direct consolidation loan and get benefits such as flexible repayment options. Interest on consolidation loans may be lower than what one is paying on any one and more of the existing loans. Even defaulters are eligible for consolidation loans if certain conditions are met. Both the Direct Loan Program and the FFEL (Federal Family Education Loan) Program offer consolidation loans. Direct Consolidation Loans are available from the U.S. Department of Education. FFEL Consolidation Loans are available from participating lenders such as banks, credit unions, and savings and loan associations. Most federal student loans and PLUS Loans can be consolidated. Loans that are consolidated into a Direct Consolidation Loan fall into one of three categories: • Direct Subsidized Consolidation Loans If you have loans from more than one category, you still have only one Direct Consolidation Loan and make only one monthly payment. However, interest rates are different depending on the loan category. Similarly repayment and deferment options for the borrower. For Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Consolidation Loans, the interest rate is variable but cannot exceed 8.25 percent. For Direct PLUS Consolidation Loans, the interest rate is also variable and may not exceed 9 percent. These interest rates are adjusted each year on July 1. |
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