So the answer is yes, at a given institution, 8 semesters could be the limit. However, as each institution is unique and the number of credit hours/semesters varies from school to school, you should contact your school’s financial aid office for information regarding maximum time frame. This information may also be found on the financial aid office’s website in the SAP policy. It should also be available in your school’s catalog.

Loan limits

Dependent Annual loan limit

Freshman $3,500*

Sophomore $4,500*

Junior or senior $5,500

Independent Annual loan limit

Freshman $7,500*

Sophomore $8,500*

Junior or senior $10,500

Graduate or professional $20,500*

Undergraduate dependent lifetime limit $23,000

Undergraduate independent lifetime limit $46,000

Graduate or professional lifetime limit** $138,500

*For loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2007.

**Exceptions may apply to certain graduate students.