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LAST UPDATED: January 29, 2025
Best private student loans: 2025
Compare private student loan offers side-by-side. Find the best rate and loan terms for your needs. It's simple, fast, and 100% free.
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ⓘ Pro tip: Lock in your rate soon as market conditions can change.
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Select the loan that fits your needs based on the provided information.
- 3
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Click "Apply Now," and you'll be taken directly to the lender's secure website to complete your application. No forms to fill out on our site—start your application immediately.
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When you click "Apply Now," you're taken straight to the lender's secure site. We don't collect your personal information or require you to fill out any forms on our site.
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UCLA
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University of Michigan
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What are Private Student Loans?
A private student loan is money you borrow from a bank, credit union, or online lender to pay for education expenses not covered by federal loans or other financial aid. You'll need to pay it back with interest over time.
What can private student loans be used for?
Private student loans can cover a variety of education-related expenses, including:
Do
Tuition and fees
Housing and utilities
Meals and groceries
A personal computer
Transportation to and from school
Study abroad program
School supplies
Textbooks
Childcare expenses
Don'ts
Vacation travel
Clothes
Entertainment
Expensive meals
Alcohol
New car
Investing
Business expenses
A down payment on a home
Frequently Asked Questions
Interest is a percentage of your loan amount added to your balance. The longer you take to repay, the more interest you'll pay. Paying off your loan faster can save you money on interest.
- Fixed Rates: Stay the same throughout your loan term, making your monthly payments predictable.
- Variable Rates: Can change over time with the market, meaning your payments could go up or down.
If you have limited credit history or income, a cosigner can help you qualify for better rates. Many undergraduates use a cosigner for private student loans.
Yes, but you'll likely need a cosigner with good credit to qualify. A cosigner shares responsibility for the loan, which can improve your chances of approval.
Many lenders allow you to borrow up to your school's cost of attendance, minus any other financial aid. Remember, only borrow what you need.
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