I was just reading the Stafford loan site, and one of the articles mentions not being approved for the full amount it lists because of something to do with the FAFSA. I'm a dependent student and the Stafford loan will be my last resort and what I'm really counting on to get me through school. It doesn't go in detail beyond mentioning the FAFSA, though, so now I'm worrying-- could someone please tell me the reasons why a person would not be eligible to receive the full amount per year in Stafford loans?

There are many reasons why a student may not be approved for the full amount of a Stafford loan. When you file a FAFSA you are given an Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) number. This is the money that you and your family are expected to contribute to your education annually. Your Stafford award can fluctuated based on your financial need and other aid that you receive. For example, if you receive to much scholarship money your school may choose to decrease your Stafford loan.