When can I consolidate?

To qualify for Direct Consolidation Loans, borrowers must have at least one Federal Direct or Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP) loan that is in grace, repayment, forbearance, or default status. Students cannot consolidate while they are still enrolled in school at least half-time.

You may delay the consolidation of any Federal Direct Loans that are in a grace period by indicating the grace period end date on the Federal Direct Consolidation Loan Application and Promissory Note (the Direct Consolidation Loan application) which is available on the Direct Consolidation Loans website. Delaying the processing of a Direct Loan Consolidation will allow you to benefit from the full grace period during which payments are not required.