This study examined major stakeholders' perceptions of their involvement and role in the legislative process surrounding the introduction, deliberation, and ultimate passage of the Direct Loan Demonstration Program (DLDP), a federal pilot student loan program. Data analysis was based on a detailed description of the legislative process surrounding the enactment of the DLDP and 48 interviews with 36 key stakeholders. A policy process model was used for examining the setting of the agenda, the specification of alternatives from which a choice was to be made, and determination of an authoritative choice. The study found that the concept of direct lending in the DLDP represented a major paradigm shift in federal student loan policy. Critical events and policy decisions discussed include: the deterioration of the Guaranteed Student Loan Program, the Credit Reform Act of 1990, publicity for the direct lending concept in a "New York Times" article, and the Bush Administration's direct lending decision. Stakeholders whose perceptions are discussed include Congressmen William D. Ford and Robert Andrews, Tom Butts of the University of Michigan, the Senate, higher education associations, the Consumer Bankers Association, and the National Council of Higher Education Loan Programs. An appendix contains a letter written to Senator Paul Simon in support of the direct lending concept. (Contains approximately 140 references.) (JDD)