There are two sources for student loans — the federal government and private lenders. In order to obtain most federal student loans, you will first need to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). A college student loan is a sum of money available to full time students, with a minimum level of interest required during the period in which they are registered as full time students. These types of loans rarely cover the entirecost of education, and most applicants refer to other financial aid options in order to meet their needs.In most instances the FAFSA is required for all federal financial aid including federal student loans. Deferment options are available while you are still attending school at least half-time. There are four main federal loan programs.

http://best-loans.awardspace.com/student-loans.htm

Federal loan consolidation is for students who are in repayment status or parents who wish to extend the repayment period on their current PLUS and obtain a fixed interest rate for the life of the loan you can combine all of your eligible federal student loans into one loan with a Federal Consolidation Loan. Consolidating also locks the interest rate you pay on your loan.