Federal subsidized loans are long-term and are ideal if you belong to low-income families or are supporting yourself entirely, without any help from relatives. The government subsidizes the interest rates so that you don't have to pay them within preset periods.

Most states sponsor deserving students enrolled in approved career paths where there are manpower shortages (these courses are usually related to medical care and operation of healthcare equipment). These loans are usually limited to a small number of applicants, and the earlier you apply, the better your chances of being awarded such a grant.

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT GRANTS

R&D grants run at between 30% to 50% of the total project cost. Costs may include salaries, consumables, related capital expenditure, consultancy, IPR protection and a substantial contribution towards overheads.