What is a federal Direct Loan?

Generally, if you took out a federal student loan or consolidated your loans on or after July 1, 2010, you have a federal Direct Loan. There are four types of Direct Loans:

• Direct Subsidized Loans
• Direct Unsubsidized Loans
• Direct PLUS Loans
• Direct Consolidation Loans

You can learn more about what type of loan you have through the U.S. Department of Education .

UPDATE: On Oct. 6, 2021, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) announced a temporary period during which borrowers may receive credit for payments that previously did not qualify for PSLF or TEPSLF. For current PSLF guidance and to learn more about this limited time opportunity visit ED’s website.

Here are tips and strategies for repaying your federal student loans, tailored to your situation.