Stafford loans and student classification?

<p>This year I was classified as a sophomore (just a few credits short), which is why I assume I received the 'second year' limit of $6500. Next semester I'll have enough credits to be considered a junior and thus "officially" starting my third year. I actually have been in college for three years now, but was only given the 'second year' limit; this is the first year I've applied for loans. Will my stafford loans amount change?</p>

<p>You will probably have to contact your FA office to ask them to award you the balance of a junior year loan next semester. </p>

<p>I am an older student who has returned to school and this happened to me also. I started in the spring so was still freshman standing the following fall. I was awarded freshman standing loan levels, then when I hit sophomore level at the end of the fall was able to ask for the balance to take me up to a sophomore level loan for the rest of the year. Then I was still soph standing at the beginning of this fall so was awarded soph level loans again. I am transferring in the spring and the FA from the new school is just the balance of a soph level loan. They told me once the credits I am doing this semester transfer, I will be classified junior level and that if I want to increase my sub loans to junior level I need to contact them after the credits transfer.</p>

<p>I don’t think it will be automatic. You will need to contact them to ask for it.</p>