FEDERAL DIRECT STUDENT LOAN PROGRAM FDSLP

A program that provides low-interest loans to postsecondary students and their parents. The William D. Ford Federal Direct Student Loan Program is issued and managed by the U.S. Department of Education and is the only government-backed loan program in the United States. Students who wish to apply for funding from the FDSLP must first submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Several types of loans are available under the FDSLP, including subsidized direct loans, unsubsidized direct loans, Direct Plus Loans and Direct Consolidation loans. All loans that are granted through the FDSLP have maximum amounts set each year, with each successive year allowing for an increase in the total maximum yearly amount, with set aggregate amounts.