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8 Student Loans with Cosigner Release

There are two possible ways to remove a cosigner from a student loan — cosigner release or refinancing.

Emily Guy Birken Emily Guy Birken Updated March 24, 2023

Our goal is to give you the tools and confidence you need to improve your finances. Although we receive compensation from our partner lenders, whom we will always identify, all opinions are our own. Credible Operations, Inc. NMLS # 1681276, is referred to here as "Credible."

Applying for a private student loan with a cosigner could help you get approved if you have poor or even no credit. It might also save you money by qualifying you for a lower interest rate than you’d get on your own.

However, because a cosigner is on the hook for the loan if you stop making payments, they might not want to share responsibility for the entire life of the loan. This is why many private lenders offer a cosigner release option, which allows a cosigner to be removed from a student loan if certain conditions are met.

Here’s what you need to know about student loans with a cosigner release option:

  • 8 private student loans with a cosigner release option
  • Other private student loan lenders
  • Requirements for cosigner release
  • How to apply for a student loan with a cosigner release
  • How to apply for cosigner release
  • Refinancing your student loans after college could release your cosigner
  • Frequently asked questions

8 private student loans with a cosigner release option

To qualify for cosigner release on a private student loan, you’ll typically have to:

  • Qualify for the student loan on your own
  • Make consecutive, on-time payments for a certain period of time

Here are Credible’s private student loan partners that offer a cosigner release option:

LenderFixed rates from (APR)Variable rates from (APR)Loan amountsLoan terms (years)Cosigner release offered?


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
4.62%+10 5.86%+10 $2,001 to $400,0007 to 15 years
(depending on loan type)
Yes, after 12 months
  • Fixed APR: 4.62%+10
  • Variable APR: 5.86%+10
  • Min. credit score: Does not disclose
  • Loan amount: $2,001 to $400,000
  • Loan terms (years): 5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, fixed/flat repayment, interest only, academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disability
  • Fees: None
  • Discounts: 0.25% to 1.00% automatic payment discount, 1% cash back graduation reward
  • Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident or DACA student enrolled at least half-time in a degree-seeking program
  • Customer service: Email, phone
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Cosigner release: After 12 on-time principal and interest payments
  • Loan servicer: Launch Servicing, LLC


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
4.99%+1 5.1%+ $1,000 to $350,000
(depending on degree)
5, 10, 15Yes, after 36 months
  • Fixed APR: 4.99%+1
  • Variable APR: 5.1%+
  • Min. credit score: 720
  • Loan amount: $1,000 to $350,000
  • Loan terms (years): 5, 10, 15
  • Loan types: Any private or federal student loan
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, full monthly payment, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disability
  • Fees: Late fee
  • Discounts: Autopay, loyalty
  • Eligibility: Available in all 50 states (international students can apply with a creditworthy U.S. citizen or permanent resident cosigner)
  • Customer service: Email, phone, chat
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Cosigner release: After 36 months
  • Loan servicer: Firstmark Services


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
4.74%+2,3
4.74%+2,3 $1,000 up to 100% of the school-certified cost of attendance5, 8, 10, 15Yes, after 24 months
  • Fixed APR: 4.74%+2,3
  • Variable APR: 4.74%+2,3
  • Min. credit score: Does not disclose
  • Loan amount: $1,000 up to cost of attendance
  • Loan terms (years): 5, 8, 10, 15, 20
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, full monthly payment, fixed/flat repayment, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disability
  • Fees: Late fee
  • Discounts: Autopay
  • Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and be making satisfactory academic progress.
  • Customer service: Email, phone
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Cosigner release: After 24 months
  • Loan servicer: College Ave Servicing LLC

custom choice

Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details

3.65%+ 5.67%+ $1,000 to $99,999 annually
($180,000 aggregate limit)
7, 10, 15Yes, after 36 months
  • Fixed APR: 3.65%+
  • Variable APR: 5.67%+
  • Min. credit score: Does not disclose
  • Loan amount: $1,000 to $99,999 annually ($180,000 aggregate limit)
  • Loan terms (years): 7, 10, 15
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, immediate repayment, interest-only repayment, flat/full repayment, academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disability
  • Fees: None
  • Discounts: Autopay
  • Eligibility: Available to borrowers in all 50 states. Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
  • Customer service: Phone, email
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Cosigner release: After 36 months
  • Loan servicer: American Education Services
  • Min. income: Does not disclose

edvestinu student loan refinance

Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
7.52%+7 6.99%+7 $1,000 to $200,0007, 10, 15Yes, after 36 months
  • Fixed APR: 7.52%+7
  • Variable APR: 6.99%+7
  • Min. credit score: 750
  • Loan amount: $1,000 to $200,000
  • Loan terms (years): 7, 10, 15
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, full monthly payment, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferment, loans discharged upon death or disability
  • Fees: Late fee
  • Discounts: Autopay
  • Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and have a minimum income of $30,000.
  • Customer service: Email, phone
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Cosigner release: After 36 months
  • Loan servicer: Granite State Management & Resources (GSM&R)


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
4.37%+8 5.86%+8 $1,001 up to 100% of school certified cost of attendance5, 10, 15Yes, after 48 months
  • Fixed APR: 4.37%+8
  • Variable APR: 5.86%+8
  • Min. credit score: 670
  • Loan amount: $1,001 up to cost of attendance
  • Loan terms (years): 5, 10, 15
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, full monthly payment, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferment, forbearance
  • Fees: Late fee
  • Discounts: Autopay, reward for on-time graduation
  • Eligibility: Must be an Indiana resident or a U.S. citizen attending an eligible Indiana school
  • Customer service: Email, phone, chat
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Cosigner release: After 48 months
  • Loan servicer: American Education Services


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
4.89%+ N/A$1,500 up to cost of attendance less aid15Yes, after 48 months
  • Fixed APR: 4.89%+
  • Variable APR: N/A
  • Min. credit score: 670
  • Loan amount: $1,500 up to cost of attendance less aid
  • Loan terms (years): 10, 15
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferral, forbearance
  • Fees: None
  • Discounts: None
  • Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and be making satisfactory academic progress.
  • Customer service: Email, phone
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Cosigner release: After 48 months
  • Loan servicer: American Education Services (AES)


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
4.509 - 14.83%9 5.49%9 - 15.83%9 $1,000 up to 100% of school-certified cost of attendance10 to 20Yes, after 12 months
  • Fixed APR: 4.509 - 14.83%9
  • Variable APR: 5.49%9 - 15.83%9
  • Min. credit score: Does not disclose
  • Loan amount: $1,000 up to 100% of school-certified cost of attendance
  • Loan terms (years): 10 to 209
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, fixed/flat repayment, interest only, academic deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disability
  • Fees: Late fee, non-sufficient funds (NSF) fee
  • Discounts: Autopay
  • Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Also available to non-U.S. citizen students (including DACA students) attending a school located in the U.S. who apply with a qualifying cosigner.
  • Customer service: Phone, chat
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Cosigner release: Borrowers can apply after graduation, 12 consecutive on-time principal and interest payments, and meeting certain credit requirements.
  • Loan servicer: Sallie Mae
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Lowest APRs reflect autopay, loyalty, and interest-only repayment discounts where available | 10Ascent Disclosures | 1Citizens Disclosures | 2,3College Ave Disclosures | 7EDvestinU Disclosures | 8INvestEd Disclosures | 9Sallie Mae Disclosures

Ascent

To release a cosigner from an Ascent loan, you must:

  • Make 12 consecutive, on-time payments
  • Meet eligibility requirements to qualify for a loan without a cosigner
  • Sign up for autopay
  • Make a direct request with the loan holder to release the cosigner

With Ascent, you can borrow $2,001 to $400,000 with repayment terms from five to 20 years (depending on loan type). Additionally, you could qualify for a 1% cashback graduation reward if you earn your degree within five years.

4.9
Credible rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
Rates and terms
Fees and Discounts
Customer Experience
Ascent Private Student Loans
Fixed APR
Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
4.62%+10
Variable APR
Lowest variable rate available from this lender
5.86%+10
Loan amount
Total amount you can borrow from this lender
$2,001 to $400,000
Loan terms (years)
How many years you have to repay the loan
5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20

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  • Fixed APR: 4.62%+10
  • Variable APR: 5.86%+10
  • Min. credit score: Does not disclose
  • Loan amount: $2,001 to $400,000
  • Loan terms (years): 5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, fixed/flat repayment, interest only, academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disability
  • Fees: None
  • Discounts: 0.25% to 1.00% automatic payment discount, 1% cash back graduation reward
  • Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident or DACA student enrolled at least half-time in a degree-seeking program
  • Customer service: Email, phone
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Cosigner release: After 12 on-time principal and interest payments
  • Loan servicer: Launch Servicing, LLC

Pros

  • 0.25% to 2.00% autopay discount
  • 1% cashback graduation reward
  • Might qualify with fair credit

Cons

  • $200,000 aggregate limit, which might not be enough for more expensive programs
  • Ascent Non-Cosigned Future Income-Based Loan available only to juniors, seniors, and graduate students
  • Deferred repayment is the only repayment option for loans without a cosigner

Citizens

To release a cosigner from a Citizens loan, you must:

  • Make 36 consecutive, on-time payments
  • Undergo credit review and income verification

Citizens offers student loans from $1,000 up to 100% of your school’s cost of attendance (aggregate limits apply) with terms from five to 15 years.

If you already have an account with Citizens, you could get a 0.25% rate discount — plus another 0.25% off your rate if you sign up for autopay.

4.8
Credible rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
Rates and terms
Fees and Discounts
Customer Experience
Citizens Private Student Loans
Fixed APR
Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
4.99%+1
Variable APR
Lowest variable rate available from this lender
5.1%+
Loan amount
Total amount you can borrow from this lender
$1,000 to $350,000
Loan terms (years)
How many years you have to repay the loan
5, 10, 15

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  • Fixed APR: 4.99%+1
  • Variable APR: 5.1%+
  • Min. credit score: 720
  • Loan amount: $1,000 to $350,000
  • Loan terms (years): 5, 10, 15
  • Loan types: Any private or federal student loan
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, full monthly payment, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disability
  • Fees: Late fee
  • Discounts: Autopay, loyalty
  • Eligibility: Available in all 50 states (international students can apply with a creditworthy U.S. citizen or permanent resident cosigner)
  • Customer service: Email, phone, chat
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Cosigner release: After 36 months
  • Loan servicer: Firstmark Services

Pros

  • Might be able to borrow up to your school’s cost of attendance
  • 0.25% autopay discount
  • 0.25% loyalty discount

Cons

  • Might be hard to qualify if you don’t have good credit
  • Doesn’t disclose minimum income requirements
  • Long cosigner release period (36 months)

College Ave

To release a cosigner from a College Ave loan, you must:

  • Have made the 24 most recent payments on time without forbearance or change in repayment for hardship reasons
  • Have earned at least twice the amount of your loan balance for the past two years
  • Must not have made any late payments on any other debts for the past 24 months, according to a credit bureau review

College Ave student loans range from $1,000 up to 100% of your school-certified cost of attendance (minus any other financial aid you’ve received).

Additionally, you can choose from a variety of loan terms ranging from five to 15 years (depending on your degree type).

4.9
Credible rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
Rates and terms
Fees and Discounts
Customer Experience
College Ave Private Student Loans
Fixed APR
Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
4.74%+2,3
Variable APR
Lowest variable rate available from this lender
4.74%+2,3
Loan amount
Total amount you can borrow from this lender
$1,000 up to cost of attendance
Loan terms (years)
How many years you have to repay the loan
5, 8, 10, 15, 20

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  • Fixed APR: 4.74%+2,3
  • Variable APR: 4.74%+2,3
  • Min. credit score: Does not disclose
  • Loan amount: $1,000 up to cost of attendance
  • Loan terms (years): 5, 8, 10, 15, 20
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, full monthly payment, fixed/flat repayment, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disability
  • Fees: Late fee
  • Discounts: Autopay
  • Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and be making satisfactory academic progress.
  • Customer service: Email, phone
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Cosigner release: After 24 months
  • Loan servicer: College Ave Servicing LLC

Pros

  • Might be able to borrow up to your school’s cost of attendance
  • Variety of loan terms
  • 0.25% autopay discount

Cons

  • Doesn’t disclose minimum income or credit requirements
  • Income for the past two years must be twice your outstanding loan balance to be eligible for cosigner release
  • Can’t have made any late payments on other debts to be eligible for cosigner release

Custom Choice

To release a cosigner from a Custom Choice loan, you must:

  • Have made the 36 consecutive, on‑time principal and interest payments
  • Have met credit and others criteria as a student borrower

The Custom Choice Loan is available from $1,000 to $99,999 annually ($180,000 aggregate limit) with a three- or five-year term. If you graduate with at least a bachelor’s degree, you could get a 2% principal reduction on your loan.

custom choice
4.4
Credible rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
Rates and terms
Fees and Discounts
Customer Experience
Custom Choice Private Student Loans
Fixed APR
Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
3.65%+
Variable APR
Lowest variable rate available from this lender
5.67%+
Loan amount
Total amount you can borrow from this lender
$1,000 to $99,999 annually ($180,000 aggregate limit)
Loan terms (years)
How many years you have to repay the loan
7, 10, 15

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  • Fixed APR: 3.65%+
  • Variable APR: 5.67%+
  • Min. credit score: Does not disclose
  • Loan amount: $1,000 to $99,999 annually ($180,000 aggregate limit)
  • Loan terms (years): 7, 10, 15
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, immediate repayment, interest-only repayment, flat/full repayment, academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disability
  • Fees: None
  • Discounts: Autopay
  • Eligibility: Available to borrowers in all 50 states. Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
  • Customer service: Phone, email
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Cosigner release: After 36 months
  • Loan servicer: American Education Services
  • Min. income: Does not disclose

Pros

  • 0.25% autopay discount
  • 2% principal reduction if you graduate with at least a bachelor’s degree
  • Can use loan funds to cover past-due balances

Cons

  • Doesn’t disclose minimum income or credit score requirements
  • Limited repayment terms (only three or five years)
  • Not available in Arizona, Iowa, or Wisconsin

EDvestinU

To release a cosigner from an EDvestinU loan, you must:

  • Make 36 consecutive, on-time payments
  • Have a FICO score greater than 749
  • Make a minimum gross income of $30,000
  • Not have any foreclosures, repossessions, wage garnishments, unpaid tax liens, unpaid judgments, or other public records having an open balance exceeding $100 during the last seven years
  • Not currently be involved in bankruptcy proceedings or have any bankruptcy filings during the last 10 years
  • Not have any defaults on education loans

With EDvestinU, you can borrow $1,000 up to 100% of your school’s cost of attendance ($200,000 aggregate limit) with terms from seven to 15 years.

Additionally, you could get 0.50% off your rate if you sign up for automatic payments.

edvestinu student loan refinance
4.8
Credible rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
Rates and terms
Fees and Discounts
Customer Experience
EDvestinU Private Student Loans
Fixed APR
Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
7.52%+7
Variable APR
Lowest variable rate available from this lender
6.99%+7
Loan amount
Total amount you can borrow from this lender
$1,000 to $200,000
Loan terms (years)
How many years you have to repay the loan
7, 10, 15

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  • Fixed APR: 7.52%+7
  • Variable APR: 6.99%+7
  • Min. credit score: 750
  • Loan amount: $1,000 to $200,000
  • Loan terms (years): 7, 10, 15
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, full monthly payment, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferment, loans discharged upon death or disability
  • Fees: Late fee
  • Discounts: Autopay
  • Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and have a minimum income of $30,000.
  • Customer service: Email, phone
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Cosigner release: After 36 months
  • Loan servicer: Granite State Management & Resources (GSM&R)

Pros

  • 0.50% autopay discount
  • No application, origination, or disbursement fees
  • No prepayment penalty

Cons

  • Might be hard to qualify if you don’t have excellent credit
  • Long cosigner release period (36 months)
  • Must have a minimum income of $30,000

INvestEd

To release a cosigner from an INvestEd loan, you must:

  • Make the first 48 consecutive monthly payments in full and on time
  • Meet the underwriting and credit criteria at the time of the release request

If you live or attend school in Indiana, INvestEd could be a good choice for private student loans. You can borrow $1,001 up to 100% of your school’s cost of attendance (minus any other financial aid you’ve received) with terms from five to 15 years.

4.6
Credible rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
Rates and terms
Fees and Discounts
Customer Experience
INvestEd Private Student Loans
Fixed APR
Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
4.37%+8
Variable APR
Lowest variable rate available from this lender
5.86%+8
Loan amount
Total amount you can borrow from this lender
$1,001 up to cost of attendance
Loan terms (years)
How many years you have to repay the loan
5, 10, 15

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  • Fixed APR: 4.37%+8
  • Variable APR: 5.86%+8
  • Min. credit score: 670
  • Loan amount: $1,001 up to cost of attendance
  • Loan terms (years): 5, 10, 15
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, full monthly payment, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferment, forbearance
  • Fees: Late fee
  • Discounts: Autopay, reward for on-time graduation
  • Eligibility: Must be an Indiana resident or a U.S. citizen attending an eligible Indiana school
  • Customer service: Email, phone, chat
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Cosigner release: After 48 months
  • Loan servicer: American Education Services

Pros

  • Might be able to borrow up to your school’s cost of attendance
  • 0.25% autopay discount
  • Offers college planning and financial aid resources to help students and families

Cons

  • Only available in Indiana
  • Long cosigner release period (48 months)
  • Charges late and returned payment fees

MEFA

To release a cosigner from a MEFA loan, you must:

  • Have taken out an undergraduate loan and opted to defer your payments (can defer for up to 60 months)
  • Make the first 48 consecutive payments on time after leaving school
  • Meet the underwriting requirements in place at the time of the release request

The Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority (MEFA) offers student loans from $1,500 up to your school-certified cost of attendance less aid. Repayment terms range from 10 to 15 years.

4.4
Credible rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
Rates and terms
Fees and Discounts
Customer Experience
MEFA Private Student Loans
Fixed APR
Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
4.89%+
Variable APR
Lowest variable rate available from this lender
N/A
Loan amount
Total amount you can borrow from this lender
$1,500 up to cost of attendance less aid
Loan terms (years)
How many years you have to repay the loan
10, 15

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  • Fixed APR: 4.89%+
  • Variable APR: N/A
  • Min. credit score: 670
  • Loan amount: $1,500 up to cost of attendance less aid
  • Loan terms (years): 10, 15
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferral, forbearance
  • Fees: None
  • Discounts: None
  • Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and be making satisfactory academic progress.
  • Customer service: Email, phone
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Cosigner release: After 48 months
  • Loan servicer: American Education Services (AES)

Pros

  • Might be able to borrow up to your school’s cost of attendance
  • Can defer payments for up to 60 months
  • No application, origination, or disbursement fees

Cons

  • Doesn’t offer variable rates
  • Long cosigner release period (48 months)
  • Cosigner release not available for graduate loans

Sallie Mae

To release a cosigner from a Sallie Mae loan, you must:

  • Make 12 consecutive, on-time payments (or pre-pay the amount equal to these payments)
  • Provide proof of graduation or completion of education
  • Have no student loans in a hardship forbearance or a modified repayment program for the 12 months immediately preceding the release request
  • Demonstrate the ability to assume full responsibility for repayment
  • Undergo a credit review and provide proof of income

With Sallie Mae, you can borrow $1,000 up to 100% of school-certified cost of attendance with terms ranging from 10 to 20 years. Additionally, cosigner release is available after just 12 months — a shorter time than many other lenders.

4.3
Credible rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
Rates and terms
Fees and Discounts
Customer Experience
Sallie Mae Private Student Loans
Fixed APR
Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
4.509 - 14.83%9
Variable APR
Lowest variable rate available from this lender
5.49%9 - 15.83%9
Loan amount
Total amount you can borrow from this lender
$1,000 up to 100% of school-certified cost of attendance
Loan terms (years)
How many years you have to repay the loan
10 to 209

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  • Fixed APR: 4.509 - 14.83%9
  • Variable APR: 5.49%9 - 15.83%9
  • Min. credit score: Does not disclose
  • Loan amount: $1,000 up to 100% of school-certified cost of attendance
  • Loan terms (years): 10 to 209
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, fixed/flat repayment, interest only, academic deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disability
  • Fees: Late fee, non-sufficient funds (NSF) fee
  • Discounts: Autopay
  • Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Also available to non-U.S. citizen students (including DACA students) attending a school located in the U.S. who apply with a qualifying cosigner.
  • Customer service: Phone, chat
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Cosigner release: Borrowers can apply after graduation, 12 consecutive on-time principal and interest payments, and meeting certain credit requirements.
  • Loan servicer: Sallie Mae

Pros

  • 0.25% autopay discount
  • 0.50% interest rate reduction on graduate and professional school loans if you make interest-only payments while in school
  • Cosigner release offered after just 12 months

Cons

  • Doesn’t disclose minimum income or credit requirements
  • Rates can be higher than other lenders
  • Must have graduated to qualify for cosigner release

Learn More: How to Pay for College

Other private student loan lenders

There are also other private student loan lenders that provide options for cosigner release. Keep in mind that these lenders aren’t offered through Credible, so you won’t be able to easily compare your rates with them on the Credible platform like you can our partner lenders.

Lender
Loan terms (years)
Cosigner release

Discover Student Loans

Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
15, 20
(depending on degree type)
No
  • Fixed APR: 4.84% - 12.39%6
  • Variable APR: 1.59% - 11.37%6
  • Min. credit score: Does not disclose
  • Loan amount: Up to cost of attendance
  • Cosigner release: No
  • Loan terms (years): 15, 20
  • Min. GPA: No
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, full monthly payment, fixed/flat repayment, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disability
  • Fees: None
  • Discounts: Autopay, good grade discount, cash reward for on-time graduation
  • Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or international student with a qualifying cosigner, as well as be making satisfactory academic progress.
  • Customer service: Email, phone
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Loan servicer: Discover Bank


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20
No
  • Rates: Fixed, variable
  • Min. credit score: 650
  • Loan terms (years): 5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20
  • Min. GPA: No
  • Cosigner release: No
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, full month payment, fixed/flat repayment, interest only, academic deferral, military deferral, forbearance
  • Fees: None
  • Discounts: Autopay
  • Eligibility: A U.S. Citizen or permanent resident. Not available in KY or NV.
  • Customer service: Email, phone
  • Soft credit check: Yes

ihelp student loan review

Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
20
After 24 months
  • Min. credit score: Does not disclose
  • Loan amount: $1,000 to $150,000
  • Loan terms (years): 10, 15, 20
  • Min GPA: No
  • Cosigner release: Yes
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, full monthly payment, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance
  • Fees: None
  • Discounts: Autopay
  • Eligibility: Available in all 50 states
  • Customer service: Email, phone
  • Soft credit check: Yes


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
Does not disclose
Does not disclose
  • Min. credit score: Does not disclose
  • Cosigner release: Does not disclose
  • Loan terms (years): 5, 10, 15
  • Min. GPA: No
  • Repayment options: Fixed/flat repayment, interest only, forbearance
  • Fees: Late fees
  • Discounts: Autopay, on-time graduation
  • Eligibility: Does not disclose
  • Customer service: Email, phone
  • Soft credit check: Yes


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
5, 10, 15
After 48 months
  • Rates: Fixed, variable
  • Min. credit score: Does not disclose
  • Loan terms: 5, 7, 15
  • Min. GPA: No
  • Cosigner release: Yes
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferral, military deferral, forbearance
  • Fees: Late Fee
  • Discounts: Autopay
  • Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen
  • Customer service: Email, phone
  • Soft credit check: Does not disclose


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
5, 10, 15
After 24 months
  • Rates: Fixed, variable
  • Min. credit score: Does not disclose
  • Loan terms (years): 5, 10, 15
  • Min. GPA: Yes
  • Cosigner release: Yes
  • Repayment options: Full deferral, fixed/flat repayment, interest only, immediate repayment, academic or military deferral, forbearance
  • Fees: None
  • Discounts: Autopay
  • Eligibility: Must be a US Citizen or permanent resident
  • Customer service: Email, phone
  • Soft credit check: Yes
The lenders in this table aren't our partners. But you can use Credible to compare rates in 2 minutes from other lenders who offer private student loans.

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Requirements for cosigner release

While requirements for cosigner release vary between lenders, here are a few common eligibility criteria you’ll likely come across:

  • Make on-time payments for a certain amount of time: Lenders want to see that you’re able to make on-time payments for a specific period of time — usually 12 to 48 months, depending on the lender.
  • Meet underwriting requirements on your own: You must be eligible to take over the loan yourself, which means you’ll have to meet the same student loan requirements as a solo borrower.
  • Provide proof of income: You’ll have to demonstrate that you earn enough income to afford the loan payments.
  • Have good to excellent credit: You’ll typically need good to excellent credit to qualify for cosigner release.
Tip: It’s a good idea to check what’s required for cosigner release before taking out a student loan with a cosigner. This way, you’ll be prepared to meet the eligibility criteria in the future.

Learn More: 4 Ideas for Building Credit as a College Student

How to apply for a student loan with a cosigner release

If you want to apply for a student loan that offers cosigner release, follow these four steps:

  1. Fill out the FAFSA. To start, be sure to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Your school will use your FAFSA results to determine what federal student loans and other federal financial aid you qualify for.
  2. Apply for scholarships and grants. Unlike student loans, college scholarships and grants don’t have to be repaid — which can help keep your future costs low. There’s no limit to how many scholarships and grants you can get, so be sure to apply for as many as you might be eligible for. You could also qualify for scholarships through your school depending on your FAFSA information.
  3. Take out federal student loans. If you need to borrow for school, it’s a good idea to take out federal student loans first. This is mainly because federal loans come with federal benefits and protections, such as access to income-driven repayment plans and student loan forgiveness programs. Additionally, most federal student loans don’t require a credit check. Once you fill out the FAFSA, your school will send you a financial aid award letter detailing what federal student loans and other federal aid you’re eligible for. You can then choose which aid you’d like to accept.
  4. Apply for private student loans with a cosigner. After you’ve exhausted your scholarship, grant, and federal student loan options, private student loans could help you fill any financial gaps left over. Be sure to consider as many lenders as possible to find the right loan for you. Compare not only interest rates but also repayment terms and cosigner release requirements.

If you decide to take out a student loan, be sure to consider how much that loan will cost you in the future. You can find out how much you’ll owe over the life of your federal or private student loans using our student loan calculator below.

Enter your loan information to calculate how much you could pay

? Enter the total amount borrowed $
? Enter your annual interest rate %
or
? Enter the amount of time you have to repay your loan years
Total Payment $
Total Interest $
Monthly Payment $

With a $ loan, you will pay $ monthly and a total of $ in interest over the life of your loan. You will pay a total of $ over the life of the loan, assuming you're making full payments while in school.


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How to apply for cosigner release

When you fill out an application for cosigner release, you’ll likely need to provide personal information as well as documentation. For example, you might have to submit:

  • Your address
  • Your Social Security number
  • Proof of income
  • Proof of graduation (if applicable)
  • Employment information (such as a recent pay stub)
  • Recent tax returns
  • Monthly rent or mortgage payment information
  • Car payment information
  • Amount of any other monthly payments

Once you’ve gathered this information, follow these three steps to apply for cosigner release:

  1. Make the required number of monthly payments. This usually ranges from 12 to 48 months of consecutive, on-time payments, depending on the lender.
  2. Fill out the application. Contact your lender for the application. You might also be able to find it on the lender’s website. Be sure to complete the form accurately and submit any required documentation in a timely manner.
  3. Sign for the loan. If you’re approved for cosigner release, the lender will have you sign new loan paperwork indicating that you’re the sole borrower. You’ll then be fully responsible for the loan.

Learn More: How Do Federal and Private Student Loans Work?

Refinancing your student loans after college could release your cosigner

Another option to remove your cosigner from a student loan is to refinance the loan in just your name. This will pay off the old loan and release your cosigner from any obligation.

Tip: Depending on your credit, you might be able to qualify for a lower interest rate through refinancing. This could save you money on interest and might even help you pay off the loan faster.

If you decide to refinance your student loans, be sure to consider as many lenders as possible to find a loan that works for you. Credible makes this easy — you can compare your prequalified rates from multiple refinancing lenders in two minutes.

Find out if refinancing is right for you

  • Compare actual rates, not ballpark estimates – Unlock rates from multiple lenders in about 2 minutes
  • Won’t impact credit score – Checking rates on Credible won’t impact your credit score
  • Data privacy – We don’t sell your information, so you won’t get calls or emails from multiple lenders

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Frequently asked questions

Here are the answers to a few commonly asked questions regarding student loan cosigners:

Can you remove yourself from a cosigned loan?

Generally, the primary borrower must request a cosigner release after meeting the eligibility criteria set by the lender. If you want to be removed yourself as cosigner, reach out to the lender to see what’s required for cosigner release and whether there are any steps you can take.

Check Out: 9 Things You Should Have Learned About Your Student Loans

Do late payments affect the cosigner?

Yes. Because the cosigner shares responsibility for the loan along with the primary borrower, late payments will show up on the cosigner’s credit report and could damage their credit.

Learn More: Average Student Loan Interest Rates

How long is a cosigner responsible for the loan?

The cosigner is responsible for the loan for the duration of the repayment term. To remove this obligation, the primary borrower must either apply for cosigner release or refinance the loan in their name.

Keep Reading: How to Pay for College With No Money Saved

About the author
Emily Guy Birken
Emily Guy Birken

Emily Guy Birken is a Credible authority on student loans and personal finance. Her work has been featured by Forbes, Kiplinger’s, Huffington Post, MSN Money, and The Washington Post online.

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Home » All » Student Loans » 8 Student Loans with Cosigner Release

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