{"id":19720,"date":"2019-01-07T11:56:51","date_gmt":"2019-01-07T19:56:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/?p=19720"},"modified":"2022-10-26T09:11:57","modified_gmt":"2022-10-26T16:11:57","slug":"everything-you-need-to-know-before-you-apply-for-student-loans","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/student-loans\/how-to-apply-for-student-loans\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Apply for Student Loans"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>The main difference between <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/student-loans\/federal-student-loans-guide\/\">federal student loans<\/a> and private student loans is that the government makes federal student loans (with terms set by federal law) and private student loans come from private organizations (with terms set by the lender). The application process also differs.<\/p>\n<p>Because federal student loans tend to have lower interest rates than private student loans and come with unique perks, it\u2019s a good idea to exhaust federal student loan options before pursuing private student loans.<\/p>\n<p><b>Ready to take out <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/student-loans\"><b>student loans<\/b><\/a><b>? Keep reading for insight into how to apply for student loans:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#how-to-apply-private-loans\">How to apply for private student loans<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#how-to-apply-federal-loans\">How to apply for federal student loans<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#when-to-apply-for-student-loans\">When to apply for a student loan<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#types-of-loans\">Types of student loans<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#how-to-qualify\">How to qualify for a student loan<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a name=\"how-to-apply-private-loans\"><\/a><\/p>\n<h2>How to apply for private student loans<\/h2>\n<p>If federal loans don\u2019t cover all your college expenses, you might need to fill in the gaps with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/student-loans\/how-student-loans-work\/\">private student loans<\/a>. Make sure you have any necessary documentation before you explore your private loan options. To apply for a private student loan, follow these steps:<\/p>\n<h3>1. Compare rates from multiple lenders<\/h3>\n<p>Before you start, it\u2019s important to compare rates from multiple lenders so that you\u2019re confident you\u2019re finding the right loan for your situation. Though you should always take advantage of federal loans first, rates on private student loans can be competitive. Here\u2019s a quick comparison between federal and private loan rates:<\/p>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-274\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-274 table table-border-top table-rounded table-no-img-margin table-capitalized-column-titles\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><th class=\"column-2\"><strong>Federal student loans<\/strong><\/th><th class=\"column-3\"><strong>Private student loans<\/strong><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><strong>Interest rates<\/strong><\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><span data-sheets-value=\"{&quot;1&quot;:3,&quot;3&quot;:0.055}\" data-sheets-userformat=\"{&quot;2&quot;:577,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:3,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;0.00%&quot;,&quot;3&quot;:1},&quot;9&quot;:0,&quot;12&quot;:0}\">5.50%<\/span> to <span data-sheets-value=\"{&quot;1&quot;:3,&quot;3&quot;:0.0805}\" data-sheets-userformat=\"{&quot;2&quot;:577,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:3,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;0.00%&quot;,&quot;3&quot;:1},&quot;9&quot;:0,&quot;12&quot;:0}\">8.05%<\/span><br \/>\n<small>(depending on loan type)<\/small><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><strong>Fixed rates from (APR):<\/strong>   <span>\n    2.65%+<sup><\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<br \/>\n<strong>Variable rates from (APR):<\/strong>   <span>\n    3.5%+<sup><\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<br \/>\n<small>(Private lenders on Credible)<\/small><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><strong>Fees<\/strong><\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><span data-sheets-value=\"{&quot;1&quot;:3,&quot;3&quot;:0.01057}\" data-sheets-userformat=\"{&quot;2&quot;:577,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:3,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;0.000%&quot;,&quot;3&quot;:1},&quot;9&quot;:0,&quot;12&quot;:0}\">1.057%<\/span> to <span data-sheets-value=\"{&quot;1&quot;:3,&quot;3&quot;:0.04228}\" data-sheets-userformat=\"{&quot;2&quot;:577,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:3,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;0.000%&quot;,&quot;3&quot;:1},&quot;9&quot;:0,&quot;12&quot;:0}\">4.228%<\/span> <br \/>\n<small>(depending on loan type)<\/small><br \/>\n<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Varies by loan<br \/>\nGenerally no origination fees<br \/>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><strong>Limits<\/strong><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$31,000 for dependent undergrads<br \/>\n$57,500 for independent undergrads<br \/>\n$20,500 for graduates (unsubsidized)<br \/>\n<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Can vary, but typically covers the cost of attendance<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><strong>Offers subsidized loans<\/strong><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">No<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><strong>Loan forgiveness<\/strong><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">No<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><strong>Terms<\/strong><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Standard Repayment Plans: 10 years<br \/>\nConsolidation and IDR plans: 10 to 30 years<br \/>\n<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">5 to 20 years (varies by lender)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-8\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><strong>Repayment Protections<\/strong><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Generous options for deferment, forbearance, and income-driven repayment plans<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Limited options for deferment and forbearance<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-9\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><strong>Option to change repayment plan or defer payments<\/strong><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">No<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-10\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><strong>Requires FAFSA<\/strong><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">No<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-11\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><strong>Requires cosigner<\/strong><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Typically no<br \/>\n<small>(unless applying for a PLUS loan with adverse credit)<\/small><\/td><td class=\"column-3\">No<br \/>\n<small>(but might increase chances of qualifying)<\/small><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-12\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><strong>Requires credit check<\/strong><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Only for PLUS loans<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Yes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n<p>Comparing private student loan rates with Credible is simple. You can fill out just one simple form and it only takes two minutes. Plus, we use a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/soft-vs-hard-credit-inquiries\/\">soft credit check<\/a> that doesn\u2019t affect your credit.<\/p>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-74\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-74 table table-border-top table-rounded table-no-img-margin table-capitalized-column-titles table-align-center tbody-has-connected-cells\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">Lender<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Fixed Rates From (APR)<br \/>\n<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">Variable Rates From (APR)<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><center><br \/>\n<br \/>\n        <div class=\"tablepress-rating-shortcode\">\n            <div class=\"heading__container\">\n                <span class=\"heading\">\n                                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/lenders\/ascent\/\">Credible Rating<\/a>\n                                    <\/span>\n                                    <div class=\"even\" data-toggle=\"tip\" data-placement=\"top left\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"icon-help\" alt=\"Question mark icon to show more information\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/icon-help-dark.svg\">\n                        <span class=\"tip\">\n                            <span class=\"tip-content\">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. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/credible-rating-lender-methodology\/\">Read our full methodology.<\/a><\/span>\n                            <span class=\"tip-arrow\"><\/span>\n                        <\/span>\n                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"star-rating__container\" role=\"img\" aria-label=\"4 star rating\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A three-quarter star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-three-quarter.svg\">\n                    <\/div>\n            <div class=\"details-link\">\n                <a href=\"#\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#ascent-psl\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" role=\"button\">View details<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <\/td><td class=\"column-2\">  <span>\n    2.69%+<sup>10<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">  <span>\n    3.68%+<sup>10<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td colspan=\"3\" class=\"column-1\">            <div id=\"ascent-psl\" class=\"collapse tablepress-lender-details__container\">\n                <ul>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Fixed APR:<\/span>\n                                  <span>\n    2.69%+<sup>10<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Variable APR:<\/span>\n                                  <span>\n    3.68%+<sup>10<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Min. credit score:<\/span>\n                                Does not disclose<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan amount:<\/span>\n                                $2,001* to $400,000 <\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan terms (years):<\/span>\n                                5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Repayment options:<\/span>\n                                Full deferral, fixed\/flat repayment, interest only, academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disability<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Fees:<\/span>\n                                None<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Discounts:<\/span>\n                                0.25% to 1.00% automatic payment discount, 1% cash back graduation reward<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Eligibility:<\/span>\n                                Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident or DACA student enrolled at least half-time in a degree-seeking program<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Customer service:<\/span>\n                                Email, phone<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Prequalified rates with a soft credit check:<\/span>\n                                Yes<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Cosigner release:<\/span>\n                                After 12 on-time principal and interest payments<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan servicer:<\/span>\n                                Launch Servicing, LLC<\/li>\n                                    <\/ul>\n                            <\/div>\n        <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><center><br \/>\n<br \/>\n        <div class=\"tablepress-rating-shortcode\">\n            <div class=\"heading__container\">\n                <span class=\"heading\">\n                                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/lenders\/citizens-bank\/#citizens-bank-private-student-loans\">Credible Rating<\/a>\n                                    <\/span>\n                                    <div class=\"even\" data-toggle=\"tip\" data-placement=\"top left\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"icon-help\" alt=\"Question mark icon to show more information\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/icon-help-dark.svg\">\n                        <span class=\"tip\">\n                            <span class=\"tip-content\">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. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/credible-rating-lender-methodology\/\">Read our full methodology.<\/a><\/span>\n                            <span class=\"tip-arrow\"><\/span>\n                        <\/span>\n                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"star-rating__container\" role=\"img\" aria-label=\"4 star rating\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A three-quarter star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-three-quarter.svg\">\n                    <\/div>\n            <div class=\"details-link\">\n                <a href=\"#\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#citizens-bank-psl\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" role=\"button\">View details<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <\/td><td class=\"column-2\">  <span>\n    3.24%+<sup>1<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">  <span>\n    4.99%+<sup><\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5\">\n\t<td colspan=\"3\" class=\"column-1\">            <div id=\"citizens-bank-psl\" class=\"collapse tablepress-lender-details__container\">\n                <ul>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Fixed APR:<\/span>\n                                  <span>\n    3.24%+<sup>1<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Variable APR:<\/span>\n                                  <span>\n    4.99%+<sup><\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Min. credit score:<\/span>\n                                720<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan amount:<\/span>\n                                $1,000 to $350,000<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan terms (years):<\/span>\n                                5, 10, 15<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan types:<\/span>\n                                Any private or federal student loan<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Repayment options:<\/span>\n                                Full deferral, full monthly payment, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disability<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Fees:<\/span>\n                                Late fee<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Discounts:<\/span>\n                                Autopay, loyalty<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Eligibility:<\/span>\n                                Available in all 50 states (international students can apply with a creditworthy U.S. citizen or permanent resident cosigner)<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Customer service:<\/span>\n                                Email, phone, chat<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Soft credit check:<\/span>\n                                Yes<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Cosigner release:<\/span>\n                                After 36 months<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan servicer:<\/span>\n                                Firstmark Services<\/li>\n                                    <\/ul>\n                            <\/div>\n        <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><center><br \/>\n<br \/>\n        <div class=\"tablepress-rating-shortcode\">\n            <div class=\"heading__container\">\n                <span class=\"heading\">\n                                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/lenders\/college-ave\/#college-ave-private-student-loans\">Credible Rating<\/a>\n                                    <\/span>\n                                    <div class=\"even\" data-toggle=\"tip\" data-placement=\"top left\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"icon-help\" alt=\"Question mark icon to show more information\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/icon-help-dark.svg\">\n                        <span class=\"tip\">\n                            <span class=\"tip-content\">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. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/credible-rating-lender-methodology\/\">Read our full methodology.<\/a><\/span>\n                            <span class=\"tip-arrow\"><\/span>\n                        <\/span>\n                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"star-rating__container\" role=\"img\" aria-label=\"4 star rating\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A three-quarter star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-three-quarter.svg\">\n                    <\/div>\n            <div class=\"details-link\">\n                <a href=\"#\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#college-ave-psl\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" role=\"button\">View details<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <\/td><td class=\"column-2\">  <span>\n    2.84%+<sup>2,3<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<br \/>\n<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">  <span>\n    3.89%+<sup>2,3<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7\">\n\t<td colspan=\"3\" class=\"column-1\">            <div id=\"college-ave-psl\" class=\"collapse tablepress-lender-details__container\">\n                <ul>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Fixed APR:<\/span>\n                                  <span>\n    2.84%+<sup>2,3<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Variable APR:<\/span>\n                                  <span>\n    3.89%+<sup>2,3<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Min. credit score:<\/span>\n                                Does not disclose<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan amount:<\/span>\n                                $1,000 up to cost of attendance<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan terms (years):<\/span>\n                                5, 8, 10, 15, 20<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Repayment options:<\/span>\n                                Full deferral, full monthly payment, fixed\/flat repayment, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disability<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Fees:<\/span>\n                                Late fee<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Discounts:<\/span>\n                                Autopay<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Eligibility:<\/span>\n                                Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and be making satisfactory academic progress.<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Customer service:<\/span>\n                                Email, phone<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Prequalified rates with a soft credit check:<\/span>\n                                Yes<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Cosigner release:<\/span>\n                                After half of the scheduled repayment term has been completed<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan servicer:<\/span>\n                                College Ave Servicing LLC\r\n<p><i><sup>Learn more about<a href=\"https:\/\/help.collegeavestudentloans.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/5560603133079-Can-a-cosigner-be-released-from-a-loan-\"> cosigner release requirements.<\/a> Requesting prequalified rates on Credible is free and doesn't affect your credit score. However, applying for or closing a loan will involve a hard credit pull that impacts your credit score and closing a loan will result in costs to you.<\/p><\/i><\/sup><\/li>\n                                    <\/ul>\n                            <\/div>\n        <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-8\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><center><br \/>\n<br \/>\n        <div class=\"tablepress-rating-shortcode\">\n            <div class=\"heading__container\">\n                <span class=\"heading\">\n                                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/lenders\/custom-choice\/\">Credible Rating<\/a>\n                                    <\/span>\n                                    <div class=\"even\" data-toggle=\"tip\" data-placement=\"top left\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"icon-help\" alt=\"Question mark icon to show more information\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/icon-help-dark.svg\">\n                        <span class=\"tip\">\n                            <span class=\"tip-content\">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. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/credible-rating-lender-methodology\/\">Read our full methodology.<\/a><\/span>\n                            <span class=\"tip-arrow\"><\/span>\n                        <\/span>\n                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"star-rating__container\" role=\"img\" aria-label=\"4 star rating\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A half star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-half.svg\">\n                    <\/div>\n            <div class=\"details-link\">\n                <a href=\"#\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#custom-choice-psl\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" role=\"button\">View details<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <\/td><td class=\"column-2\">  <span>\n    3.35%+<sup><\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">  <span>\n    3.5%+<sup><\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-9\">\n\t<td colspan=\"3\" class=\"column-1\">            <div id=\"custom-choice-psl\" class=\"collapse tablepress-lender-details__container\">\n                <ul>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Fixed APR:<\/span>\n                                  <span>\n    3.35%+<sup><\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/a\/cogfin-disclosures\"><sup>11<\/sup><\/a><\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Variable APR:<\/span>\n                                  <span>\n    3.5%+<sup><\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/a\/cogfin-disclosures\"><sup>11<\/sup><\/a><\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan amount:<\/span>\n                                $1,000 to $99,999 annually\r\n<small>($180,000 aggregate limit)<a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/a\/cogfin-disclosures\"><sup>11<\/sup><\/a><\/small><\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan terms (years):<\/span>\n                                7, 10, 15<a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/a\/cogfin-disclosures\"><sup>11<\/sup><\/a><\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Repayment options:<\/span>\n                                Full deferral, immediate repayment, interest-only repayment, flat\/full repayment, academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disability<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Fees:<\/span>\n                                None<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Discounts:<\/span>\n                                Autopay<a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/a\/cogfin-disclosures\"><sup>11<\/sup><\/a><\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Eligibility:<\/span>\n                                Available to borrowers in all 50 states. Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Customer service:<\/span>\n                                Phone, email<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Prequalified rates with a soft credit check:<\/span>\n                                Yes<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Cosigner release:<\/span>\n                                After 36 months<a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/a\/cogfin-disclosures\"><sup>11<\/sup><\/a><\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan servicer:<\/span>\n                                American Education Services<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Min. income:<\/span>\n                                $1<\/li>\n                                    <\/ul>\n                            <\/div>\n        <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-10\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><center><br \/>\n<br \/>\n        <div class=\"tablepress-rating-shortcode\">\n            <div class=\"heading__container\">\n                <span class=\"heading\">\n                                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/lenders\/invested\/#invested-private-student-loans\">Credible Rating<\/a>\n                                    <\/span>\n                                    <div class=\"even\" data-toggle=\"tip\" data-placement=\"top left\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"icon-help\" alt=\"Question mark icon to show more information\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/icon-help-dark.svg\">\n                        <span class=\"tip\">\n                            <span class=\"tip-content\">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. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/credible-rating-lender-methodology\/\">Read our full methodology.<\/a><\/span>\n                            <span class=\"tip-arrow\"><\/span>\n                        <\/span>\n                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"star-rating__container\" role=\"img\" aria-label=\"4 star rating\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A half star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-half.svg\">\n                    <\/div>\n            <div class=\"details-link\">\n                <a href=\"#\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#invested-psl\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" role=\"button\">View details<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <\/td><td class=\"column-2\">  <span>\n    4.5%+<sup>8<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">  <span>\n    6.47%+<sup>8<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-11\">\n\t<td colspan=\"3\" class=\"column-1\">            <div id=\"invested-psl\" class=\"collapse tablepress-lender-details__container\">\n                <ul>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Fixed APR:<\/span>\n                                  <span>\n    4.5%+<sup>8<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Variable APR:<\/span>\n                                  <span>\n    6.47%+<sup>8<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Min. credit score:<\/span>\n                                670<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan amount:<\/span>\n                                $1,001 up to cost of attendance<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan terms (years):<\/span>\n                                5, 10, 15<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Repayment options:<\/span>\n                                Full deferral, full monthly payment, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferment, forbearance<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Fees:<\/span>\n                                Late fee<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Discounts:<\/span>\n                                Autopay, reward for on-time graduation<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Eligibility:<\/span>\n                                Must be an Indiana resident or a U.S. citizen attending an eligible Indiana school<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Customer service:<\/span>\n                                Email, phone, chat<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Prequalified rates with a soft credit check:<\/span>\n                                Yes<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Cosigner release:<\/span>\n                                After 12 months<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan servicer:<\/span>\n                                American Education Services<\/li>\n                                    <\/ul>\n                            <\/div>\n        <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-12\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><center><br \/>\n<br \/>\n        <div class=\"tablepress-rating-shortcode\">\n            <div class=\"heading__container\">\n                <span class=\"heading\">\n                                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/lenders\/mefa\/#mefa-private-student-loans\">Credible Rating<\/a>\n                                    <\/span>\n                                    <div class=\"even\" data-toggle=\"tip\" data-placement=\"top left\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"icon-help\" alt=\"Question mark icon to show more information\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/icon-help-dark.svg\">\n                        <span class=\"tip\">\n                            <span class=\"tip-content\">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. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/credible-rating-lender-methodology\/\">Read our full methodology.<\/a><\/span>\n                            <span class=\"tip-arrow\"><\/span>\n                        <\/span>\n                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"star-rating__container\" role=\"img\" aria-label=\"4 star rating\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A half star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-half.svg\">\n                    <\/div>\n            <div class=\"details-link\">\n                <a href=\"#\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#mefa-psl\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" role=\"button\">View details<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <\/td><td class=\"column-2\">  <span>\n    3.29%+<sup><\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">N\/A<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-13\">\n\t<td colspan=\"3\" class=\"column-1\">            <div id=\"mefa-psl\" class=\"collapse tablepress-lender-details__container\">\n                <ul>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Fixed APR:<\/span>\n                                  <span>\n    3.29%+<sup><\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Variable APR:<\/span>\n                                N\/A<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Min. credit score:<\/span>\n                                670<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan amount:<\/span>\n                                $1,500 up to cost of attendance less aid<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan terms (years):<\/span>\n                                10, 15<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Repayment options:<\/span>\n                                Full deferral, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferral, forbearance<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Fees:<\/span>\n                                None<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Discounts:<\/span>\n                                None<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Eligibility:<\/span>\n                                Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and be making satisfactory academic progress.<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Customer service:<\/span>\n                                Email, phone<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Prequalified rates with a soft credit check:<\/span>\n                                Yes<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Cosigner release:<\/span>\n                                After 48 months<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan servicer:<\/span>\n                                American Education Services (AES)<\/li>\n                                    <\/ul>\n                            <\/div>\n        <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-14\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><center><br \/>\n<br \/>\n        <div class=\"tablepress-rating-shortcode\">\n            <div class=\"heading__container\">\n                <span class=\"heading\">\n                                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/lenders\/sallie-mae\/\">Credible Rating<\/a>\n                                    <\/span>\n                                    <div class=\"even\" data-toggle=\"tip\" data-placement=\"top left\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"icon-help\" alt=\"Question mark icon to show more information\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/icon-help-dark.svg\">\n                        <span class=\"tip\">\n                            <span class=\"tip-content\">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. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/credible-rating-lender-methodology\/\">Read our full methodology.<\/a><\/span>\n                            <span class=\"tip-arrow\"><\/span>\n                        <\/span>\n                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"star-rating__container\" role=\"img\" aria-label=\"4 star rating\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A full star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-full.svg\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"star-light\" alt=\"A one-quarter star\" src=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/credible\/assets\/images\/lender-rating\/star-light-quarter.svg\">\n                        <\/div>\n            <div class=\"details-link\">\n                <a href=\"#\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#sallie-mae-psl\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" role=\"button\">View details<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">  <span>\n    2.890%<sup>9<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n -   <span>\n    17.49%<sup>9<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/span><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">  <span>\n    3.75%<sup>9<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n -   <span>\n    16.370%<sup>9<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-15\">\n\t<td colspan=\"3\" class=\"column-1\">            <div id=\"sallie-mae-psl\" class=\"collapse tablepress-lender-details__container\">\n                <ul>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Fixed APR:<\/span>\n                                <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">  <span>\n    2.890%<sup>9<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n -   <span>\n    17.49%<sup>9<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/span><\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Variable APR:<\/span>\n                                <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">  <span>\n    3.75%<sup>9<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n -   <span>\n    16.370%<sup>9<\/sup>\n  <\/span>\n<\/span><\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Min. credit score:<\/span>\n                                Does not disclose<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan amount:<\/span>\n                                $1,000 up to 100% of school-certified cost of attendance<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan terms (years):<\/span>\n                                10 to 20<sup>9<\/sup><\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Repayment options:<\/span>\n                                Full deferral, fixed\/flat repayment, interest only, academic deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disability<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Fees:<\/span>\n                                Late fee, non-sufficient funds (NSF) fee<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Discounts:<\/span>\n                                Autopay<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Eligibility:<\/span>\n                                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.<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Customer service:<\/span>\n                                Phone, chat<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Prequalified rates with a soft credit check:<\/span>\n                                Yes<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Cosigner release:<\/span>\n                                Borrowers can apply after graduation, 12 consecutive on-time principal and interest payments, and meeting certain credit requirements.<\/li>\n                                                <li><span class=\"font-weight-bold\">Loan servicer:<\/span>\n                                Sallie Mae<\/li>\n                                    <\/ul>\n                            <\/div>\n        <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-16\">\n\t<td colspan=\"3\" class=\"column-1\"><center><b>Compare Prequalified Private Student Loan rates. <\/b><br><br \/>\n<center><a class=\"btn btn-warning\" href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/student-loans\/start\">Compare Private Loans Now<\/a><\/center><br><\/center><br \/>\n<!-- TrustBox widget - Micro Combo --><br \/>\n<div class=\"trustpilot-widget\" data-locale=\"en-US\" data-template-id=\"5419b6ffb0d04a076446a9af\" data-businessunit-id=\"5536ec090000ff00057eebe7\" data-style-height=\"20px\" data-style-width=\"100%\" data-theme=\"light\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.trustpilot.com\/review\/www.credible.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Trustpilot<\/a><\/div><br \/>\n<!-- End TrustBox widget --><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-17\">\n\t<td colspan=\"3\" class=\"column-1\"><p style=\"text-align: center;\"><small>Lowest APRs reflect autopay, loyalty, and interest-only repayment discounts where available. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/faqs\">Prequalified rates<\/a> are not an offer of credit. | <sup>10<\/sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/a\/ascent-student-loan-disclosure\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Ascent Disclosures<\/a> | <sup>1<\/sup><a href=\"#\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-target=\"#citizensbank-inschool\">Citizens Bank Disclosures<\/a> | <sup>2,3<\/sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/a\/college-ave-disclosures\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">College Ave Disclosures<\/a> | <sup>11<\/sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/a\/cogfin-disclosures\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Custom Choice Disclosures<\/a> | \u00a0<sup>7<\/sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/a\/edvestinu-apr-details-inschool\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">EDvestinU Disclosures<\/a> | <sup>8<\/sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/a\/invested-disclosures\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">INvestEd Disclosures<\/a> | <sup>9<\/sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/a\/sallie-mae-homepage-disclosures\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Sallie Mae Disclosures<\/a><\/small><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n<h3>2. Consider a cosigner<\/h3>\n<p>Even if you have little credit history or poor credit, you might not qualify for a private student loan without a cosigner. If you do qualify, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/student-loans\/cosigner-explained\/\">having a cosigner<\/a> can greatly increase your chances for acceptance and even get you a lower interest rate, which could save you money. Nearly 94% of all private student loans are taken out with a cosigner.<\/p>\n<p><a name=\"how-to-apply-federal-loans\"><\/a><\/p>\n<h2>How to apply for federal student loans<\/h2>\n<p>It\u2019s worth repeating: You should always start with federal student loans if you need to borrow for college. Federal loans come with advantages that include lower interest rates, flexible repayment terms, and the opportunity for student loan forgiveness. And for most federal student loans, you won\u2019t need a credit check.<\/p>\n<p>Follow these steps to apply for federal student loans:<\/p>\n<h3>1. Know your federal loan options<\/h3>\n<p>One of the first steps to getting a federal student loan is to know which types of loans are available to you. The U.S. Department of Education offers three main types of federal loans:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Direct Subsidized Loans:<\/b> This type of loan is available to undergraduate students and awarded based on financial need.<\/li>\n<li><b>Direct Unsubsidized Loans:<\/b> These loans are available to undergrads and grad students. They don\u2019t require proof of financial need.<\/li>\n<li><b>Direct PLUS Loans:<\/b> These loans are available to parents of undergrads, as well as graduate or professional students. The borrower\u2019s credit history is considered for a PLUS Loan. Just keep in mind PLUS Loans have higher interest rates than Direct Subsidized or Unsubsidized loans. It may be worth it to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/student-loans\">compare private student loans<\/a> first, so that you can pick the best one for your situation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Before borrowing, make sure you do your research and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/student-loans\/student-loan-limits\/\">understand the limits on student loans<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>2. Prepare any documents and information you might need<\/h3>\n<p>Before you actually <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/student-loans\/when-to-apply-for-student-loans\/\">apply for student loans<\/a>, you\u2019ll need to have some basic information handy. Here are some documents and information you should prepare to have for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA):<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Social Security number<\/li>\n<li>Birthdate<\/li>\n<li>Current address (for student and parents)<\/li>\n<li>List of all the schools you\u2019re considering attending, including the school\u2019s information like name, address, phone number, and your major<\/li>\n<li>Tax returns and other tax information for your parents (or yourself if you\u2019re independent \u2014 though that\u2019s hard to qualify for)<\/li>\n<li>Other income information, like child support, or any other assets, like businesses or investments<\/li>\n<li>Adjusted gross income from the last two years<\/li>\n<li>Any gift aid received, like scholarships or grants<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You may need other information for your loan application, depending on your situation. Just make sure you have all your important financial papers and information before moving on to the next step.<\/p>\n<h3>3. Fill out the FAFSA<\/h3>\n<p>Every student borrower should fill out the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/student-loans\/applying-for-fafsa\/\">Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)<\/a>. Even if you don\u2019t think you\u2019ll be eligible for most federal financial aid, you might be surprised to find that you are eligible for reward money or federal loans.<\/p>\n<p>Even if you\u2019re not eligible for scholarships or loans due to financial need, your school still might offer you a Direct Unsubsidized Loan. It\u2019s important to fill out the FAFSA as early as possible to maximize your funding. Also, speak with your school\u2019s financial aid office for a better idea on what types of loans you\u2019re eligible for.<\/p>\n<h3>4. Review your Student Aid Report<\/h3>\n<p>Next, you\u2019ll review your Student Aid Report (SAR). If you provided an email address when you filled out your FAFSA, you should automatically be emailed a copy of this report. If not, follow these steps to view it online or print a copy:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Go to <a href=\"https:\/\/studentaid.ed.gov\/sa\/fafsa\">FAFSA.gov<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Click \u201cLog In.\u201d<\/li>\n<li>Enter your FSA ID.<\/li>\n<li>Go to the \u201cMy FAFSA\u201d page.<\/li>\n<li>Click \u201cView or Print Your Student Aid Report (SAR).\u201c<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>You\u2019ll typically be able to access your SAR within two weeks of submitting the FAFSA. Your SAR will be sent to the schools you listed on your FAFSA. They\u2019ll use this information to decide which types of financial aid you\u2019re eligible for, and how much.<\/p>\n<h3>5. Fill out a CollegeBoard CSS profile<\/h3>\n<p>To find out if you\u2019re eligible for institutional aid, you should apply on CollegeBoard\u2019s CSS Profile page. Here\u2019s how:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Sign up for a CollegeBoard account.<\/li>\n<li>Go to <a href=\"http:\/\/cssprofile.org\/\">CSSProfile.org<\/a> and sign in with your CollegeBoard credentials.<\/li>\n<li>Select \u201cBegin New Profile.\u201d<\/li>\n<li>Select the schools you wish to apply to.<\/li>\n<li>Provide any other information the form asks for.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Finish filling out the CSS Profile and submit your application. Though the <a href=\"https:\/\/cssprofile.collegeboard.org\/pdf\/css-profile-fee-waivers.pdf\">fees can be waived in certain situations<\/a>, your first report will typically cost $25, and each additional report will cost $16.<\/p>\n<h3>6. Review your financial aid letter<\/h3>\n<p>After receiving your FAFSA, any schools you\u2019ve applied and are accepted to will send you a financial aid award letter. Make sure to review the letter thoroughly so you know how much financial aid you\u2019re eligible to receive.<\/p>\n<p>The letter typically includes your total cost of attendance, Expected Family Contribution (EFC), and the loans and other aid you qualify for. Your net cost will be the total cost of attendance, minus whatever gift aid you qualify for.<\/p>\n<h3>7. Talk to your financial aid office and accept your financial aid offer<\/h3>\n<p>You\u2019ll need to check in with your financial aid office and accept your offer for aid.<\/p>\n<p>Although each school might be different, before your loan funds are disbursed, you\u2019ll typically be required to complete <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/student-loans\/student-loan-entrance-counseling\/\">entrance counseling<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/studentaid.ed.gov\/sa\/fafsa\/next-steps\/accept-aid\/mpn#what\">sign a Master Promissory Note<\/a>. This is a document stating the terms of your loan and your obligation to repay it.<\/p>\n<p>Contact the financial aid office of the school you\u2019re going to attend to get the exact details of what you need to do to get your funds.<\/p>\n<p><a name=\"when-to-apply-for-student-loans\"><\/a><\/p>\n<h2>When to apply for a student loan<\/h2>\n<p>It\u2019s a good idea to apply for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/student-loans\/apply-to-college\/\">student loans<\/a> as soon as you know you\u2019ll need to borrow money for college.<\/p>\n<p>Applying early can help you avoid missing tuition bill deadlines. And, for federal student loans, completing the FAFSA earlier could increase your odds of getting all the aid available to you. Some colleges have priority deadlines that can lead to getting the most aid, so check with your school\u2019s financial aid office for its specific deadline.<\/p>\n<div class=\"basic-box\" style=\"border: 1px solid #E2E4E6;\"><div class=\"basic-box__inside\">Here are the FAFSA filing deadlines for the current and upcoming academic years:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>2022\u201323 academic year: <\/b>11:59 p.m. Central time on June 30, 2023. Any corrections or updates must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Central time on Sept. 10, 2023.<\/li>\n<li><b>2021\u201322 academic year: <\/b>11:59 p.m. Central time on June 30, 2022. Any corrections or updates must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Central time on Sept. 10, 2022.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<p>Both private lenders and the Department of Education will send student loan funds directly to your school to apply toward your on-campus costs, like tuition and room and board. The school will then disburse any leftover funds to you to use for other education expenses, like books.<\/p>\n<p>For both federal and private student loans, it can take a few weeks to a few months for your school to receive the loan funds.<\/p>\n<p><a name=\"types-of-loans\"><\/a><\/p>\n<h2>Types of student loans<\/h2>\n<p>Federal student loans and private student loans come from different places, and federal student loans are usually the better choice. This is because federal student loans tend to come with lower interest rates and offer advantages, like income-driven repayment plans, that private student loans don\u2019t offer.<\/p>\n<h3>Types of federal student loans<\/h3>\n<p>Completing the FAFSA could give you access to multiple <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/student-loans\/types-of-student-loans\/\">types of federal student loans<\/a>, including:<\/p>\n<h4>Direct Subsidized Loans:<\/h4>\n<p class=\"featured-box featured-box--isGreen\"><b>Best for:<\/b> Undergraduate borrowers with demonstrated financial need<\/p>\n<p>While you\u2019re in school at least half-time and for up to six months after you leave school, the federal government pays the interest on these loans.<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/student-loans\/what-is-a-federal-direct-unsubsidized-loan\/\">Direct Unsubsidized Loans:<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"featured-box featured-box--isGreen\"><b>Best for:<\/b> Undergraduate, graduate, and professional students looking for a low interest rate and flexible repayment terms<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019re responsible for paying the interest on these loans, even while you\u2019re in school. Making interest-only payments while you\u2019re studying could help reduce the amount you\u2019ll owe after you leave school.<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/student-loans\/parent-plus-vs-private-parent-loans\/\">Direct Parent PLUS Loans<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"featured-box featured-box--isGreen\"><b>Best for:<\/b> Parents of dependent undergraduate students<\/p>\n<p>The only type of federal student loan that requires a credit check, these PLUS Loans allow parents to borrow for their child\u2019s education.<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/student-loans\/grad-plus-loans\/\">Direct Grad PLUS Loans<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"featured-box featured-box--isGreen\"><b>Best for: <\/b>Graduate or professional students with good credit and income<\/p>\n<p>These PLUS Loans are for graduate or professional students who need to borrow to fund their higher degrees.<\/p>\n<h3>Types of private student loans<\/h3>\n<p>It\u2019s possible to find private student loans for virtually every education objective, including:<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/student-loans\">Undergraduate student loans<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"featured-box featured-box--isGreen\"><b>Best for:<\/b> Undergraduate students who have access to a cosigner with good credit<\/p>\n<p>These loans are aimed at helping students fund their undergraduate degrees. You\u2019ll generally need good credit or a cosigner with good credit to qualify for one.<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/student-loans\/graduate-student-loans\">Graduate student loans<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"featured-box featured-box--isGreen\"><b>Best for: <\/b>Graduate students with good credit and a steady income<\/p>\n<p>Students pursuing a master\u2019s degree or doctorate can apply for a graduate student loan.<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/student-loans\/parent-student-loans\">Parent student loans<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"featured-box featured-box--isGreen\"><b>Best for:<\/b> Parents with good credit and income who are looking for a competitive interest rate on a parent loan<\/p>\n<p>These loans can be a good option for parents who don\u2019t want a federal PLUS Loan.<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/student-loans\/international-student-loans\/\">International student loans<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"featured-box featured-box--isGreen\"><b>Best for:<\/b> Students spending a semester or more in a study-abroad program<\/p>\n<p>Not all colleges and universities around the world are eligible for federal aid, so you might need a private student loan to fund your studies abroad.<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/student-loans\/law-school-loans\">Law school loans<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"featured-box featured-box--isGreen\"><b>Best for: <\/b>Law students whose federal aid doesn\u2019t cover all their education costs.<\/p>\n<p>Law school can easily cost $40,000 or more per year, and federal aid may not be enough to help pay for it. These loans can help law students cover education expenses.<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/student-loans\/mba-loans\/\">MBA student loans<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"featured-box featured-box--isGreen\"><b>Best for:<\/b> MBA students with good credit to help qualify for competitive rates<\/p>\n<p>MBA costs can vary widely, so it\u2019s possible federal aid won\u2019t cover all your costs.<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/student-loans\/medical-school-loans\">Medical student loans<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"featured-box featured-box--isGreen\"><b>Best for: <\/b>Medical students<\/p>\n<p>A medical doctorate is arguably the most expensive degree to pursue, and you\u2019ll almost certainly need private student loans.<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/student-loans\/trade-school-loans\/\">Trade school loans<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"featured-box featured-box--isGreen\"><b>Best for:<\/b> Students pursuing a trade<\/p>\n<p>A trade school education can be less expensive than a four-year college degree and lead to a well-paying career in a trade.<\/p>\n<p><a name=\"how-to-qualify\"><\/a><\/p>\n<h2>How to qualify for a student loan<\/h2>\n<p>Not sure how to get a student loan? While the qualification process for private and federal student loans can be a bit different, students and their parents may need to take the following steps to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/student-loans\/student-loan-requirements\/\">qualify for a student loan<\/a>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Fill out the FAFSA first. <\/b>This will give you an idea of how much financial aid you\u2019ll receive, and how much you\u2019ll need to borrow in loans. Exhaust federal student loan options first.<\/li>\n<li><b>Enroll in an eligible education program. <\/b>To get a student loan \u2014 federal or private \u2014 you must be a student. And in general, you\u2019ll need to be enrolled at least half-time.<\/li>\n<li><b>Compare multiple lenders. <\/b>Comparison shopping can help ensure you find the best private student loan for your needs and budget. It can also ensure you meet the lender\u2019s demographic qualifications, such as age and citizenship.<\/li>\n<li><b>Polish your credit. <\/b>While most federal loans don\u2019t require a credit check, private lenders will want to know you have good credit and income \u2014 or have a cosigner with both.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"basic-box\" style=\"border: 1px solid #E2E4E6;\"><div class=\"basic-box__inside\"><b>Keep in mind:<\/b> Applying with a cosigner who has good credit and income can help increase your chances of getting approved for a private student loan at a good rate.<\/div><\/div>\n<p>Ready to apply for a student loan? With Credible, you can check private student loan rates with multiple lenders by filling out a single form.<\/p>\n<div class=\"basic-box\" style=\"border: 1px solid #E2E4E6;\"><div class=\"basic-box__inside\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><strong>Compare student loan rates from top lenders<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"list--iconArrow accent--isGreen\">\n<li>Multiple lenders compete to get you the best rate<\/li>\n<li>Get actual rates, not estimated ones<\/li>\n<li>Finance almost any degree<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a class=\"btn btn-warning\" href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/student-loans\">See Your Rates<\/a><br \/>\n<small>Checking rates will not affect your credit<\/small><\/p>\n<p><!-- TrustBox widget - Micro Combo --><\/p>\n<div class=\"trustpilot-widget\" data-locale=\"en-US\" data-template-id=\"5419b6ffb0d04a076446a9af\" data-businessunit-id=\"5536ec090000ff00057eebe7\" data-style-height=\"20px\" data-style-width=\"100%\" data-theme=\"light\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.trustpilot.com\/review\/www.credible.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Trustpilot<\/a><\/div>\n<p><!-- End TrustBox widget --><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<p><i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/author\/jamie-young\/\">Jamie Young<\/a> contributed to the reporting for this article.<\/i><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The main difference between federal student loans and private student loans is that the government makes federal student loans (with terms set by federal law) and private student loans come from private organizations (with terms&hellip; <a class=\"more \" href=\"https:\/\/www.credible.com\/blog\/student-loans\/how-to-apply-for-student-loans\/\">Continue reading<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":133,"featured_media":38899,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[1484,1499],"class_list":{"0":"post-19720","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","6":"hentry","7":"category-refinance-student-loans","8":"tag-new","9":"tag-student-loan-basics-sidebar","10":"everything-you-need-to-know-before-you-apply-for-student-loans","11":"post_tag-new","13":"post_tag-student-loan-basics-sidebar"},"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Apply for and Get Student Loans | Credible<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"If you need to take out student loans to afford college, keep reading 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