Chump change in subsidized loan

<p>My son, who will be attending a public university, received $153 in subsidized Stafford, and $5K in unsubsidized Stafford.</p>

<p>I understand the subsidized loan is based on financial need, while the unsubsidized isn't. Fortunately, we can pay for his attendance, but the amount of $153 is kind of a joke. I suppose their formula had us coming up that much short for cost of attendance.</p>

<p>He received a significantly higher subsidized loan offer from another public with a higher cost of attendance, which he won't attend, but we were thinking he could accept the subsidized loan since the interest doesn't accrue until after he graduates--and we could earn interest on money that wasn't coming out of our pocket. We see the point of a loan with interest accruing right away.</p>

<p>My question: any chance of getting more subsidized loan without a chance in financial situation?</p>

<p>That said, if I were religious I'd say we were blessed that this is more of an academic problem than a real one for us.</p>

<p>If your EFC is correct, I think the only way you’d get a higher subs loan amount is to petition for a change in COA…high transportation expenses or another factor may be considered. May not be worth the effort it takes though!</p>