A Perkins Student Loan is different from a Stafford Loan, even though both are federal loans. The local colleges distribute the funds from Perkins Loans on a financial need basis. The Federal government distributes money to the schools, which are then awarded to students as needed. Funds are limited and no more money to the school will be given that year, so early applications are very important. Undergraduate students can get a maximum of $20,000 for the 4 years, and Graduate students can receive up to $40,000 for their education.
By Mark Allen, FinancialAidFinder