Obtaining good student loan advice is a good idea before taking out any student loan. Most universities and private schools have an office where you can get good advice from financial professionals. If you don’t feel like asking your school about loans then finding advice online is an option but a rather riskier option. The financial officers at your school are probably the most likely to help you since they know more about the government backed loans which typically have lower interest rates. They will also be able to explain the differences between subsidized and unsubsidized loans.