Best Private Student Loans in January 2024
Updated: April 18, 2024
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
A private student loan is a common way to finance college expenses. Applying for a student loan ahead of time can help you avoid rushing your application at the last minute.
While the student loan process can seem overwhelming, you can start by ensuring that you have good credit and a co-signer (if you need one). Making sure you’re enrolled in an eligible school and keeping your college tuition numbers handy is helpful.
MoneyGeek analyzed top lenders based on loan amounts, service quality and APR ranges to help you select your best option. Our research revealed that College Ave is the best overall private student loan lender.
- MoneyGeek’s Picks for the Best Private Student Loans
- Best Private Student Loan Overall: College Ave
- Best Private Student Loan for No Co-signer: Ascent
- Best Private Student Loan for Competitive APRs: RISLA
- Best Private Student Loan for Fast Approval Process: Citizens Bank
- Best Private Student Loan for Automated Payment Discounts: PNC Bank
- Best Private Student Loan for Member Benefits: SoFi
- Private Student Loans vs. Federal Student Loans
- How to Choose the Best Private Student Loan
- Frequently Asked Questions About Private Student Loans
MoneyGeek’s Picks for the Best Private Student Loans
Loan size, repayment terms, APR ranges and fees are some factors that MoneyGeek evaluated to rank the best private loans for students. College Ave emerged as our top pick since it charges minimal fees, doesn’t require co-signers and has flexible loan amounts.
MoneyGeek also highlights top-performing loan lenders based on their outstanding features. Citizens Bank, for example, offers fast approval.
Best Private Student Loan Overall: College Ave
Best Private Student Loan for No Co-signer: Ascent
Best Private Student Loan for Competitive APRs: RISLA
Best Private Student Loan for Fast Approval Process: Citizens Bank
Best Private Student Loan for Automated Payment Discounts: PNC Bank
Best Private Student Loan for Member Benefits: SoFi
Private Student Loans vs. Federal Student Loans
If you’re looking for the best student loans, it’s smart to know the difference between private and federal student loans.
Banks, credit unions or state-affiliated organizations offer private student loans. The government provides federal student loans following terms set by law. Students who need to refinance a federal and private loan can consider private lenders such as SoFi.
Student loan eligibility varies based on the lender, regardless of loan type. For most loans, U.S. citizens and permanent residents can qualify. However, some private lenders allow international students to apply and others don’t. You may need to prove your financial need and provide proof of enrollment in an eligible certificate program from your school.
Federal student loans don’t charge prepayment penalty fees, while there’s a possibility of fees for early repayment with private student loans. Students with a federal student loan can defer payments until after graduation. Certain private student loans might require payments throughout your time in school.
How to Choose the Best Private Student Loan
Before you apply for a student loan, it’s smart to consider a few factors that could affect which option is best for you.
- Assess the product details: Each lender offers different features, loan limits and APR ranges. Read about the features of a private student loan to help you decide whether it’s a suitable option.
- See if you meet eligibility requirements: Eligibility can vary greatly between lenders, so it’s best to check if you tick all the boxes. For instance, some lenders don’t allow international students to apply for a private student loan.
- Look into the repayment terms: Certain lenders have a short grace period and require immediate repayment. Other lenders allow you to defer payments until you graduate or leave school.
- Know your financial profile: Take note of factors such as having a co-signer, your creditworthiness and your debt-to-income ratio. Lenders usually check these to assess your ability to repay.
- Wait a couple of days: It’s good practice to take a day or two to consider the pros and cons before applying for a loan. It could help you arrive at an objective decision.
- Get a funding estimate: Knowing how much you need to borrow beforehand is best to avoid overborrowing.
- Account for monthly payments: Loans are usually paid each month, so ensure that you can keep up with payments.
- Read the fine print: Avoid surprise costs by understanding your loan’s conditions.
Taking time to evaluate options can help you find the best private student loan that caters to your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Private Student Loans
MoneyGeek answered the most commonly asked questions about private student loans so you can find an excellent fit. Consider your needs and weigh different lender options.
If possible, it’s best to apply for a private student loan at least four to six weeks before school starts or as soon as you know your tuition cost.
Lenders tend to examine your creditworthiness and debt-to-income ratio. Co-signers might also be a requirement.
Some lenders charge prepayment penalty fees if you pay off your loan ahead of the set loan term. Some lenders also charge an origination fee. You should also expect to pay late fees if your balances transfer or you miss payments from month to month.
Some lenders don’t require a minimum credit score, so getting a private student loan with bad credit is possible. Having a co-signer with a better credit score can boost your likelihood of getting approved.
Private student loan interest rates can range between 3.99% – 15.66%.
Yes, interest may be tax deductible.
Not always. Some lenders require one, while others do not. International students or temporary residents, for instance, may need a co-signer.
Yes. Lenders usually conduct a hard credit inquiry that can negatively impact your score. However, paying on time can help build your rating.
sources
- Better Business Bureau. "PNC Bank." Accessed November 21, 2022.
- Federal Student Aid. "Federal Versus Private Loans." Accessed November 21, 2022.
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions, reviews, analyses and recommendations are the author’s alone and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. Learn more about our editorial policies and expert editorial team.
Advertiser Disclosure: MoneyGeek has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. MoneyGeek and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. To ensure thorough comparisons and reviews, MoneyGeek features products from both paid partners and unaffiliated card issuers that are not paid partners.