Eligible students may apply for federal financial aid. Learn about the types of aid available, find out how to apply, and view resources to help you figure out the best path forward.

Types of Federal Aid

For Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans, the annual maximum amount available per aid year is $20,500 ($10,250 per term for residential students and $6,833 per term for hybrid students). This loan has an origination fee of 1.057% that is deducted from the gross amount of the loan when disbursement occurs per term. Interest is fixed at 7.94% for loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2026, for the 2026-2027 academic year. Interest accumulates daily while enrolled. There are lifetime aggregate limits that apply, which include amounts borrowed as an undergraduate.

Federal Work Study is available as determined by data on the FAFSA; annual earning limits typically start at $4,000. Students whose aid package includes work study will receive additional information. Work Study pay is not credited towards your Duke Bursar account charges each term, rather it is paid to you monthly as you work throughout the term. Work Study earnings are potentially taxable income.

How to Apply for Federal Aid

Each year, be sure to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) using Duke’s school code: 002920. The 2026–2027 FAFSA applies to students enrolling in Summer 2026, Fall 2026, and Spring 2027. After you submit your FAFSA, the Divinity School's Office of Financial Aid will email you with your estimated cost of attendance and instructions on how to view and accept your financial aid. For help navigating this process, check out the DukeHub guide. If you plan to borrow a Federal Unsubsidized Direct Loan, you’ll need to complete an online Master Promissory Note (MPN) and Entrance Counseling for each loan type. These steps are only required the first time you borrow each type of loan.

White flowers in front of Westbrook building

Additional Federal Financial Aid Resources

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Students pursuing a career in public service can qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness To qualify you must meet the criteria:

  • Be employed full time by a U.S. federal, state, local, or tribal government or not-for-profit organization
  • Have borrowed direct loans 
  • Repay your loans under an income-driven repayment plan
  • Make 120 qualifying payments
Student walk by the Westbrook building while the flowers are filled with white blooms

Questions?

Contact Us!

Do you have questions about your federal checklist completion and FAFSA verification? Email the Financial Aid Office.