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Paying for Graduate School
Learn how to pay for graduate and professional school, how to qualify for as much financial aid as possible and find guidance on affordability and loan forgiveness.
Graduate school guides and tip sheets
How to pay for grad school: the basics
Featured video
Applying to graduate school? Here's how to pay for it.
If you’re considering graduate school in 2024, make sure you have a funding plan in place ahead of time. Costs for graduate school can vary greatly depending on the type and length of the program, but there are opportunities to help cut down out-of-pocket costs. Cecilia Clark, our student loans expert, walks through all of the options available, and how to get started.
Student loans from our partners
Check Rate
on Funding U website
Funding U
4.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
4.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
7.99% - 13.49%Rate includes Autopay discount.
Min. credit score
Credit scores not used
Check Rate
on Funding U website
Check Rate
on Abe website
Abe
5.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
5.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
2.08% - 16.58%(?)Before applying for a private student loan, DR Bank and Monogram LLC recommend exhausting all financial aid alternatives including grants, scholarships, and federal student loans. The Abe® student loans are made by DR Bank, Member FDIC (“Lender”). All loans are subject to individual approval and adherence to Lender’s underwriting guidelines. Program restrictions and other terms and conditions apply. LENDER AND MONOGRAM LLC EACH RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE
PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. TERMS, CONDITIONS AND RATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. Interest rates and APRs (Annual Percentage Rates) depend upon (1) the student’s and cosigner’s (if applicable) credit histories, (2) the rate type selected, (3) the repayment option and repayment term selected, (4) the expected number of years in deferment, (5) type of degree program, and (6) the requested loan amount. Rates and terms are effective as of 08/12/2026. The variable interest rate for each calendar month is calculated by adding the 30-Day Average Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) index plus a fixed margin assigned to each loan. The current SOFR index, published on the website of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, is 3.625% as of 08/01/2026. The applicable index or margin for variable rate loans may change over time and result in a different APR than shown. The fixed rate assigned to a loan will never change except as required by law or if you request and qualify for an interest rate discount or receive In-School Default Protection (see https://www.abestudentloans.com for details). APRs assume a $10,000 loan with one disbursement. The undergraduate and graduate low fixed and variable rate APRs assume a 5-year term and the Immediate Repayment option with payments beginning 30-60 days after the disbursement via auto pay (see auto pay for more details). The undergraduate high fixed and variable rate APRs assume a 20-year term; the graduate high fixed rate APR assumes a 20 year term and the graduate high variable rate APR assumes a 5 year term. The undergraduate and graduate fixed rate and graduate variable rate high APRs assume the Interest Only Repayment option, a thirty-seven-month deferment period, and a six-month grace period before entering repayment. Undergraduate variable rate high APR assumes the Immediate Repayment option with payments beginning 30-60 days after the disbursement. Auto pay yields 0.25% interest rate which is applied after the Servicer validates your bank account information. Automatic payments and the associated discount will be temporarily discontinued (1) if you elect to stop automatic deduction of payments and (2) during periods when you are not required to make payments. The discount will be permanently discontinued in the event three automatic deductions are returned by the financial institution for any reason. The 15- and 20- year terms are only available for loan amounts of $5,000 or more. Making interest only payments during deferment will not reduce the principal balance of the loan. Payment examples (all assume a 20-month deferment period, a six-month grace period before entering repayment, no auto pay discount, a fixed interest rate, and the OnlyFlat
Payment Repayment option). Abe Undergraduate Loans: 5-year term: $10,000 loan, one disbursement, with a 5-year repayment term (60 months) and a 9.00% APR would result in a monthly principal and interest payment of $237.24. 7-year term: $10,000 loan, one disbursement, with a 7-year repayment term (84 months) and a 9.15% APR would result in a monthly principal and interest payment of $185.38. 10-year term: $10,000 loan, one disbursement, with a 10-year repayment term (120 months) and a 9.27% APR would result in a monthly principal and interest payment of $147.30. 15-year term: $10,000 loan, one disbursement, with, a 15-year repayment term (180 months) and a 9.41% APR would result in a monthly principal and interest payment of $119.80. 20-year term: $10,000 loan, one disbursement, with, a 20-year repayment term (240 months) and a 9.53% APR would result in a monthly principal and interest payment of $107.99. Abe Graduate Loans: 5-year term: $10,000 loan, one disbursement, with a 5-year repayment term (60 months) and a 9.46% APR would result in a monthly principal and interest
payment of $242.30. 7-year term: $10,000 loan, one disbursement, with a 7-year repayment term (84 months) and a 9.62% APR would result in a monthly principal and interest payment of $190.10. 10-year term: $10,000 loan, one disbursement, with a 10-year repayment term (120 months) and a 9.74% APR would result in a monthly principal and interest payment of $151.87. 15-year term: $10,000 loan, one disbursement, with a 15-year repayment term (180 months) and a 9.89% APR would result in a monthly principal and interest payment of $124.45. 20-year term: $10,000 loan, one disbursement, with, a 20-year repayment term (240 months) and a 10.01% APR would result in a monthly principal and interest payment of $112.83. The minimum loan amount is $1,000, except for (a) student applicants who are permanent residents of Iowa in which case the minimum loan amount is $1,001, and (b) student applicants or cosigners who are permanent residents of Massachusetts in which case the minimum loan amount is $6,001. The maximum loan amount to cover in-school expenses for each academic year is determined by the school’s cost of attendance, minus other financial aid, as certified by the school. The requested loan amount cannot cause an individual student applicant’s aggregate education loan debt (which includes federal and private student loans) to exceed $300,000 per student applicant applying for an undergraduate loan, $350,000 per student applicant applying for a graduate, graduate certificate, Healthcare Professionals, Law or MBA loan, or $500,000 per student applicant applying for a Medical or Dental loan. The requested loan amount cannot cause the aggregate education loan debt of a cosigner, applying jointly for an Abe loan, to exceed $999,999.99. Abe is a registered trademark of Monogram LLC. Monogram LLC is not an affiliate of DR Bank. Monogram LLC (NMLS #2542102) NMLS Consumer Access
Min. credit score
Mid-600
Check Rate
on Abe website
Check Rate
on Monogram website
Monogram
5.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
5.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
3.35% - 17.17%(?) Before applying for a private student loan, DR Bank and Monogram LLC recommend exhausting all financial aid alternatives including grants, scholarships, and federal student loans. The Custom Choice Loan® is made by DR Bank, Member FDIC (“Lender”). All loans are subject to individual approval and adherence to Lender’s underwriting guidelines. Program restrictions and other terms and conditions apply. LENDER AND MONOGRAM LLC EACH RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. TERMS, CONDITIONS AND RATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. Interest rates and APRs (Annual Percentage Rates) depend upon (1) the student’s and cosigner’s (if applicable) credit histories, (2) the rate type selected, (3) the repayment option and repayment term selected, (4) the expected number of years in deferment, and (5) the requested loan amount. Rates and terms are effective as of 07/01/2026. The variable interest rate for each calendar month is calculated by adding the 30-Day Average Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) index plus a fixed margin assigned to each loan. The current SOFR index, published on the website of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, is 3.750% as of 07/01/2026. The applicable index or margin for variable rate loans may change over time and result in a different APR than shown. The fixed rate assigned to a loan will never change except as required by law or if you request and qualify for an interest rate discount or receive In-School Default Protection (see https://www.customchoice.com for details). APRs assume a $10,000 loan with one disbursement. The high APRs assume a 7-year term with the Fully Deferred Repayment option and a six-month grace period before entering repayment. The low APRs assume a 7-year term, the Interest-Only Repayment option with interest payments beginning 30-60 days after the disbursement via auto pay and a six-month grace period before entering repayment. Auto pay yields a 0.25% interest rate reduction which is applied after the Servicer validates your bank account information. Automatic payments and the associated discount will be temporarily discontinued (1) if you elect to stop automatic deduction of payments and (2) during periods when you are not required to make payments. The discount will be permanently discontinued in the event three automatic deductions are returned by the financial institution for any reason. The 15- and 20- year terms are only available for loan amounts of $5,000 or more. Making interest only payments during deferment will not reduce the principal balance of the loan. Payment examples (all assume a 14-month deferment period, a six-month grace period before entering repayment, no auto pay discount, and the Interest Only Repayment option): 5-year term: $10,000 loan, one disbursement, with a 5-year repayment term (60 months) and a 11.80% APR would result in a monthly principal and interest payment of $221.44. 7-year term: $10,000 loan, one disbursement, with a 7-year repayment term (84 months) and a 9.00% APR would result in a monthly principal and interest payment of $160.89. 10-year term: $10,000 loan, one disbursement, with a 10-year repayment term (120 months) and an 8.85% APR would result in a monthly principal and interest payment of $125.87. 15-year term: $10,000 loan, one disbursement, with, a 15-year repayment term (180 months) and a 8.80% APR would result in a monthly principal and interest payment of $100.24. 20-year term: $10,000 loan, one disbursement, with, a 20-year repayment term (240 months) and an 10.88% APR would result in a monthly principal and interest payment of $102.40. The minimum loan amount is $1,000, except for (a) student applicants who are permanent residents of Iowa in which case the minimum loan amount is $1,001, and (b) student applicants or cosigners who are permanent residents of Massachusetts in which case the minimum loan amount is $6,001. The maximum loan amount to cover in-school expenses for each academic year is determined by the school’s cost of attendance, minus other financial aid, as certified by the school. The requested loan amount cannot cause an individual applicant’s aggregate student loan debt (which includes federal and private student loans) to exceed $300,000 per applicant applying for an undergraduate loan or $350,000 per applicant applying for a graduate or graduate certificate loan. Custom Choice Loan® is a registered trademark of Monogram LLC. Monogram LLC is not an affiliate of DR Bank. Monogram LLC (NMLS #2542102) NMLS Consumer Access
Min. credit score
Mid-600s
Check Rate
on Monogram website
Check Rate
on Funding U website
Funding U
4.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
4.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
7.99% - 13.49%Rate includes Autopay discount.
Min. credit score
Credit scores not used
Check Rate
on Funding U website
Check Rate
on Edly website
Edly
4.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
4.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
N/A
Min. credit score
Varies
Check Rate
on Edly website
Check Rate
on MPOWER website
MPOWER
3.5
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
3.5
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
10.24% - 16.65%
Min. credit score
None
Check Rate
on MPOWER website
Check Rate
on Funding U website
Funding U
4.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
4.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
7.99% - 13.49%Rate includes Autopay discount.
Min. credit score
Credit scores not used
Check Rate
on Funding U website
Check Rate
on Edly website
Edly
4.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
4.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
N/A
Min. credit score
Varies
Check Rate
on Edly website
Check Rate
on MPOWER website
MPOWER
3.5
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
3.5
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
10.24% - 16.65%
Min. credit score
None
Check Rate
on MPOWER website
Check Rate
on Earnest website
Earnest
5.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
5.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
4.45% - 9.99%Actual rate will vary based on your financial profile. Fixed annual percentage rates (APR) range from 4.70% APR to 10.24% APR (4.45% – 9.99% with .25% auto pay discount). Variable annual percentage rates (APR) range from 6.13% APR to 10.24% APR (5.88% – 9.99% with .25% auto pay discount). Earnest variable interest rate student loan refinance loans are based on a publicly available index, the 30-day Average Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) published by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. The variable rate is based on the rate published on the 25th day, or the next business day, of the preceding calendar month, rounded to the nearest hundredth of a percent. The rate will not increase more than once a month, but there is no limit on the amount that the rate could increase at one time. Please note, we are not able to offer variable rate loans in AK, IL, MN, MS, NH, OH, TN, and TX. Our lowest rates are only available for our most credit qualified borrowers and requires selection of our shortest term offered and enrollment in our .25% auto pay discount from a checking or savings account. Enrolling in autopay is not required as a condition for approval.
Nine-month grace period is not available for borrowers who choose our Principal and Interest Repayment plan while in school.
Choosing to refinance to a longer term may lower your monthly payment, but increase the amount of interest you may pay. Choosing to refinance to a shorter term may increase your monthly payment, but lower the amount of interest you may pay. Review your loan documentation for the total cost of your refinanced loan.
Please note that you will lose benefits associated with your underlying federal loans, such as federal Income-driven Repayment Plans, Economic Hardship Deferment, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, or other deferment and forbearance options, if you refinance into a private loan. If you file for bankruptcy, you may still be required to pay back this loan.
Earnest clients may skip a payment through a one, one-month forbearance during a 12 month period. Your first request to skip a payment can be made once you’ve made at least 6 months of consecutive on-time full principal and interest payments, and your loan is in good standing. The interest accrued during the skipped month will result in an increase in your remaining minimum payment. The final payoff date on your loan will be extended by the length of the skipped payment periods. Any unpaid accrued interest may capitalize (added to the principal balance) at the end of the forbearance period by adding unpaid accrued interest to the outstanding principal as permitted by law and the terms of the loan agreement. Interest will not be capitalized on loans originated to Michigan residents under the Regulatory Loan Act of 1963. Please be aware that a skipped payment does count toward the forbearance limits. Please note that skipping a payment is not guaranteed and is at Earnest's discretion. Your monthly payment and total loan cost may increase as a result of postponing your payment and extending your term.
Nine-month grace period is not available for borrowers who choose our Principal and Interest Repayment plan while in school.
Choosing to refinance to a longer term may lower your monthly payment, but increase the amount of interest you may pay. Choosing to refinance to a shorter term may increase your monthly payment, but lower the amount of interest you may pay. Review your loan documentation for the total cost of your refinanced loan.
Please note that you will lose benefits associated with your underlying federal loans, such as federal Income-driven Repayment Plans, Economic Hardship Deferment, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, or other deferment and forbearance options, if you refinance into a private loan. If you file for bankruptcy, you may still be required to pay back this loan.
Earnest clients may skip a payment through a one, one-month forbearance during a 12 month period. Your first request to skip a payment can be made once you’ve made at least 6 months of consecutive on-time full principal and interest payments, and your loan is in good standing. The interest accrued during the skipped month will result in an increase in your remaining minimum payment. The final payoff date on your loan will be extended by the length of the skipped payment periods. Any unpaid accrued interest may capitalize (added to the principal balance) at the end of the forbearance period by adding unpaid accrued interest to the outstanding principal as permitted by law and the terms of the loan agreement. Interest will not be capitalized on loans originated to Michigan residents under the Regulatory Loan Act of 1963. Please be aware that a skipped payment does count toward the forbearance limits. Please note that skipping a payment is not guaranteed and is at Earnest's discretion. Your monthly payment and total loan cost may increase as a result of postponing your payment and extending your term.
Min. credit score
650
Check Rate
on Earnest website
Check Rate
on LendKey website
LendKey
4.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
4.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
4.39% - 9.24%See LendKey's full terms and conditions at https://www.lendkey.com/disclaimers
Min. credit score
680
Check Rate
on LendKey website
Check Rate
on RISLA website
RISLA
4.5
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
4.5
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
3.99% - 8.74%Rates with autopay.
Min. credit score
Upper 600s
Check Rate
on RISLA website
Check Rate
on Sallie Mae website
Sallie Mae
4.5
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
4.5
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
1.95% - 17.49%1. Lowest rates shown include the auto debit discount. Advertised APRs for undergraduate students assume a $10,000 loan to a student who attends school for 4 years and has no prior Sallie Mae-serviced loans. Interest rates for variable rate loans may increase or decrease over the life of the loan based on changes to the 30-day Average Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) rounded up to the nearest one-eighth of one percent. Advertised variable rates are the starting range of rates and may vary outside of that range over the life of the loan. Interest is charged starting when funds are sent to the school. With the Fixed and Deferred Repayment Options, the interest rate is higher than with the Interest Repayment Option and Unpaid Interest is added to the loan’s Current Principal at the end of the grace/separation period. To receive a 0.25 percentage point interest rate discount, the borrower or cosigner must enroll in auto debit through Sallie Mae. The discount applies only during active repayment for as long as the Current Amount Due or Designated Amount is successfully withdrawn from the authorized bank account each month. It may be suspended during forbearance or deferment. Advertised APRs are valid as of 8/24/2026. Loan amounts: For applications submitted directly to Sallie Mae, loan amount cannot exceed the cost of attendance less financial aid received, as certified by the school. Applications submitted to Sallie Mae through a partner website will be subject to a lower maximum loan request amount. Miscellaneous personal expenses (such as a laptop) may be included in the cost of attendance for students enrolled at least half-time. Examples of typical costs for a $10,000 Smart Option Student Loan with the most common fixed rate, fixed repayment option, 6-month separation period, and two disbursements: For a borrower with no prior loans and a 4-year in-school period, it works out to a 10.28% fixed APR, 51 payments of $25.00, 119 payments of $182.67 and one payment of $121.71, for a Total Loan Cost of $23,134.44. For a borrower with $20,000 in prior loans and a 2-year in-school period, it works out to a 10.78% fixed APR, 27 payments of $25.00, 179 payments of $132.53 and one payment of $40.35 for a total loan cost of $24,438.22. Loans that are subject to a $50 minimum principal and interest payment amount may receive a loan term that is less than 10 years. A variable APR may increase over the life of the loan. A fixed APR will not.
Min. credit score
Mid-600s
Check Rate
on Sallie Mae website
Check Rate
on MPOWER website
MPOWER
3.5
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
3.5
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
10.24% - 16.65%
Min. credit score
None
Check Rate
on MPOWER website
Check Rate
on College Ave website
College Ave
5.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
5.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
1.94% - 17.99%College Ave's student loan products are made available through Firstrust Bank, member FDIC, First Citizens Community Bank, member FDIC, or BTG Pactual Bank, N.A., member FDIC. All loans are subject to individual approval and adherence to underwriting guidelines. Program restrictions, other terms, and conditions apply. (1)All rates include the auto-pay discount. The 0.25% auto-pay interest rate reduction applies as long as a valid bank account is designated for required monthly payments. If a payment is returned, you will lose this benefit. Variable rates may increase after consummation. (2)As certified by your school and less any other financial aid you might receive. Minimum $1,000. (3)This informational repayment example uses typical loan terms for a freshman borrower who selects the Flat Repayment Option with an 8-year repayment term, has a $10,000 loan that is disbursed in one disbursement and a 7.78% fixed Annual Percentage Rate (“APR”): 54 monthly payments of $25 while in school, followed by 96 monthly payments of $176.21 while in the repayment period, for a total amount of payments of $18,266.38. Loans will never have a full principal and interest monthly payment of less than $50. Your actual rates and repayment terms may vary. Information advertised valid as of 8/18/2026. Variable interest rates may increase after consummation. Approved interest rate will depend on creditworthiness of the applicant(s), lowest advertised rates only available to the most creditworthy applicants and require selection of the Flat Repayment Option with the shortest available loan term.
Min. credit score
Mid-600s
Check Rate
on College Ave website
Check Rate
on Sallie Mae website
Sallie Mae
4.5
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
4.5
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
1.95% - 14.99%Lowest rates shown include the auto debit discount. Advertised APRs for Graduate School Loan, MBA Loans, and Graduate School Loan for Health Professions assume a $10,000 loan with a 2-year in-school period. Interest rates for variable rate loans may increase or decrease over the life of the loan based on changes to the 30-day Average Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) rounded up to the nearest one-eighthof one percent. Advertised variable rates are the starting range of rates and may vary outside of that range over the life of the loan. Interest is charged starting when funds are sent to the school. With the Fixed and Deferred Repayment Options, the interest rate is higher than with the Interest Repayment Option and Unpaid Interest is added to the loan’s Current Principal at the end of the grace/separation period. To receive a 0.25 percentage point interest rate discount, the borrower or cosigner must enroll in auto debit through Sallie Mae. The discount applies only during active repayment for as long as the Current Amount Due or Designated Amount is successfully withdrawn from the authorized bank account each month. It may be suspended during forbearance or deferment. Advertised APRs are valid as of 8/24/2026.
Min. credit score
Mid-600s
Check Rate
on Sallie Mae website
Check Rate
on College Ave website
College Ave
5.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
5.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
2.09% - 15.99%College Ave's student loan products are made available through Firstrust Bank, member FDIC, First Citizens Community Bank, member FDIC, or BTG Pactual Bank, N.A., member FDIC. All loans are subject to individual approval and adherence to underwriting guidelines. Program restrictions, other terms, and conditions apply. (1)All rates include the auto-pay discount. The 0.25% auto-pay interest rate reduction applies as long as a valid bank account is designated for required monthly payments. If a payment is returned, you will lose this benefit. Variable rates may increase after consummation. (2)As certified by your school and less any other financial aid you might receive. Minimum $1,000. (3)This informational repayment example uses typical loan terms for a freshman borrower who selects the Flat Repayment Option with an 8-year repayment term, has a $10,000 loan that is disbursed in one disbursement and a 7.78% fixed Annual Percentage Rate (“APR”): 54 monthly payments of $25 while in school, followed by 96 monthly payments of $176.21 while in the repayment period, for a total amount of payments of $18,266.38. Loans will never have a full principal and interest monthly payment of less than $50. Your actual rates and repayment terms may vary. Information advertised valid as of 8/03/2026. Variable interest rates may increase after consummation. Approved interest rate will depend on creditworthiness of the applicant(s), lowest advertised rates only available to the most creditworthy applicants and require selection of the Flat Repayment Option with the shortest available loan term.
Min. credit score
Mid-600s
Check Rate
on College Ave website
Check Rate
on Earnest website
Earnest
4.5
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
4.5
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
1.99% - 14.05%Actual rate and available repayment terms will vary based on your financial profile. Our lowest rates are only available for the most credit qualified existing cosigned loan borrowers who receive the 0.25% Loyalty discount and requires selection of our shortest term offered, full principal and interest payment while in school, and enrollment in our 0.25% Auto Pay discount. Enrolling in Auto Pay is not required as a condition for approval. Interest rates are subject to change.
To be eligible for the Loyalty Discount, applicants must have previously obtained an Earnest Private Student Loan and apply using the same email address associated with that loan. Only one Loyalty Discount may be applied per eligible Earnest Private Student Loan. Not all applicants may qualify. This offer cannot be combined with Earnest’s Rate Match program. Earnest may modify or discontinue this offer at any time and without notice, however, once a Loyalty Discount is earned, it will not be taken away.
Earnest Private Student Loans are subject to credit approval. Before applying for private student loans, it’s best to maximize your other sources of financial aid first. It’s recommended to use a 3 step approach to assembling the funds you need: 1) Look for funds you don’t have to pay back, like scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities. 2) Next, fill out a FAFSA® form to apply for federal student loans options. 3) Finally, consider a private student loan to cover any difference between your total cost of attendance and the amount not covered in steps 1 and 2. For more information, visit the Department of Education website at studentaid.gov.
1. To be eligible for the Loyalty Discount, applicants must have previously obtained an Earnest Private Student Loan and apply using the same email address associated with that loan. Only one Loyalty Discount may be applied per eligible Earnest Private Student Loan. Not all applicants may qualify. This offer cannot be combined with Earnest’s Rate Match program. Earnest may modify or discontinue this offer at any time and without notice, however, once a Loyalty Discount is earned, it will not be taken away.
2. You can take advantage of the Auto Pay interest rate reduction by setting up and maintaining active and automatic ACH withdrawal of your loan payment from a checking or savings account. The interest rate reduction for Auto Pay will be available only while your loan is enrolled in Auto Pay. Interest rate incentives for utilizing Auto Pay may not be combined with certain private student loan repayment programs that also offer an interest rate reduction. It is important to note that the 0.25% Auto Pay discount is not available when loan payments are deferred during the interim period as a result of selecting the deferred repayment option.
3. Earnest does not charge fees for origination, late payments, returned check, or prepayments. Florida 3. Stamp Tax: For Florida residents, Florida documentary stamp tax is required by law, calculated as $0.35 for each $100 (or portion thereof) of the principal loan amount, the amount of which is provided in the Final Disclosure. Lender will add the stamp tax to the principal loan amount. The full amount will be paid directly to the Florida Department of Revenue. Certificate of Registration No. 78-8016373916-1.
4. Earnest clients may skip a payment through a single, one-month forbearance during a 12 month period. Your first request to skip a pay can be made once you’ve made at least 6 months of consecutive on-time full principal and interest payments, and your loan is in good standing. The interest accrued during the skipped month will result in an increase in your remaining minimum payment. The final payoff date on your loan will be extended by the length of the skipped payment periods. Any unpaid accrued interest may capitalize (added to the principal balance) at the end of the forbearance period by adding unpaid accrued interest to the outstanding principal as permitted by law and the terms of the loan agreement. Please note that skipping a payment is not guaranteed and is at Earnest’s discretion. Your monthly payment and total loan cost may increase as a result of postponing your payment and extending your term.
5. Nine-month grace period is not available for borrowers who choose our Principal and Interest Repayment plan while in school.
6. Repayment terms and repayment options available vary based on loan type.
7. Available interest rates are subject to change. Interest rates as of 03/19/2026. Earnest’s Loan Cost Examples: 1.) These examples provide estimates based on principal and interest payments beginning immediately upon loan disbursement. Variable annual percentage rate ("APR"): A $10,000 loan with a 15-year term (180 monthly payments of $152.84) and a 16.85% interest rate without Auto Pay (16.85% APR) would result in a total estimated payment amount of $27,511.20. For a variable loan, after your starting rate is set, your rate will then vary with the market. Fixed APR: A $10,000 loan with a 15-year term (180 monthly payments of $150.30) and a 16.49% interest rate without Auto Pay (16.49% APR) would result in a total estimated payment amount of $27,054.10. 2.) These examples provide estimates based on interest-only payments while in school. Variable interest rate: A $10,000 loan with a 15-year term (180 monthly payments of $152.84) and a 16.85% interest rate without Auto Pay (16.85% APR) would result in a total estimated payment amount of $35,515.14. For a variable loan, after your starting rate is set, your rate will then vary with the market. Your actual repayment terms may vary. Other repayment options are available. The calculation assumes that the “in-school” period is 4 years (48 months) and includes our 9 month grace period, during which the monthly payment will be $140.42 for 57 months. Fixed interest rate: A $10,000 loan with a 15-year term (180 monthly payments of $150.30) and a 16.49% interest rate without Auto Pay (16.49% APR) would result in a total estimated payment amount of $34,886.94. Your actual repayment terms may vary. Other repayment options are available. The calculation assumes that the “inschool” period is 4 years (48 months) and includes our 9 month grace period, during which the monthly payment will be $137.42 for 57 months. 3.) These examples provide estimates based on fixed $25 payments while in school. Variable interest rate: A $10,000 loan with a 15-year term (180 monthly payments of $253.39) and a 16.85% interest rate without Auto Pay (14.92% APR) would result in a total estimated payment amount of $47,035.20. For a variable loan, after your starting rate is set, your rate will then vary with the market. Fixed interest rate: A $10,000 loan with a 15-year term (180 monthly payments of $246.61) and a 16.49% interest rate without Auto Pay (14.65% APR) would result in a total estimated payment amount of $45,814.80. Your actual repayment terms may vary. Other repayment options are available. The calculation assumes that the “in-school” period is 4 years (48 months) and includes our 9 month grace period, during which the monthly payment will be $25.00. 4.) These examples provide estimates based on deferred payments. Variable interest rate: A $10,000 loan with a 15-year term (180 monthly payments of $275.17) and a 16.85% interest rate without Auto Pay (14.67% APR) would result in a total estimated payment amount of $49,530.60. For a variable loan, after your starting rate is set, your rate will then vary with the market. Fixed interest rate: A $10,000 loan with a 15-year term (180 monthly payments of $268.03) and a 16.49% interest rate without Auto Pay (14.39% APR) would result in a total estimated payment amount of $48,245.40. Your actual repayment terms may vary. Other repayment options are available. It is important to note that the 0.25% Auto Pay discount is not available when the deferred repayment option has been selected and the loan is in the interim period. The calculation assumes that the “in-school” period is 4 years (48 months) and includes our 9 month grace period, during which the monthly payment will be $0.
8. Deferment options are not available for borrowers who choose our Principal and Interest Repayment plan.
Earnest Private Student Loans are made by FinWise Bank, Member FDIC. FinWise Bank, 756 East Winchester, Suite 100, Murray, UT 84107. Earnest student loans are serviced by Earnest Operations LLC, 300 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, Suite 340, Oakland, CA 94612. NMLS #1204917, with support from Higher Education Loan Authority of the State of Missouri (MOHELA) (NMLS# 1442770). FinWise Bank and Earnest LLC and its subsidiaries, including Earnest Operations LLC, are not sponsored by agencies of the United States of America.
Min. credit score
650
Check Rate
on Earnest website
Check Rate
on Sallie Mae website
Sallie Mae
4.5
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
4.5
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
1.95% - 17.49%1. Lowest rates shown include the auto debit discount. Advertised APRs for undergraduate students assume a $10,000 loan to a student who attends school for 4 years and has no prior Sallie Mae-serviced loans. Interest rates for variable rate loans may increase or decrease over the life of the loan based on changes to the 30-day Average Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) rounded up to the nearest one-eighth of one percent. Advertised variable rates are the starting range of rates and may vary outside of that range over the life of the loan. Interest is charged starting when funds are sent to the school. With the Fixed and Deferred Repayment Options, the interest rate is higher than with the Interest Repayment Option and Unpaid Interest is added to the loan’s Current Principal at the end of the grace/separation period. To receive a 0.25 percentage point interest rate discount, the borrower or cosigner must enroll in auto debit through Sallie Mae. The discount applies only during active repayment for as long as the Current Amount Due or Designated Amount is successfully withdrawn from the authorized bank account each month. It may be suspended during forbearance or deferment. Advertised APRs are valid as of 8/24/2026. Loan amounts: For applications submitted directly to Sallie Mae, loan amount cannot exceed the cost of attendance less financial aid received, as certified by the school. Applications submitted to Sallie Mae through a partner website will be subject to a lower maximum loan request amount. Miscellaneous personal expenses (such as a laptop) may be included in the cost of attendance for students enrolled at least half-time. Examples of typical costs for a $10,000 Smart Option Student Loan with the most common fixed rate, fixed repayment option, 6-month separation period, and two disbursements: For a borrower with no prior loans and a 4-year in-school period, it works out to a 10.28% fixed APR, 51 payments of $25.00, 119 payments of $182.67 and one payment of $121.71, for a Total Loan Cost of $23,134.44. For a borrower with $20,000 in prior loans and a 2-year in-school period, it works out to a 10.78% fixed APR, 27 payments of $25.00, 179 payments of $132.53 and one payment of $40.35 for a total loan cost of $24,438.22. Loans that are subject to a $50 minimum principal and interest payment amount may receive a loan term that is less than 10 years. A variable APR may increase over the life of the loan. A fixed APR will not.
Min. credit score
Mid-600s
Check Rate
on Sallie Mae website
Check Rate
on College Ave website
College Ave
5.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
5.0
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
2.09% - 17.99%College Ave's student loan products are made available through Firstrust Bank, member FDIC, First Citizens Community Bank, member FDIC, or BTG Pactual Bank, N.A., member FDIC. All loans are subject to individual approval and adherence to underwriting guidelines. Program restrictions, other terms, and conditions apply. (1)All rates include the auto-pay discount. The 0.25% auto-pay interest rate reduction applies as long as a valid bank account is designated for required monthly payments. If a payment is returned, you will lose this benefit. Variable rates may increase after consummation. (2)As certified by your school and less any other financial aid you might receive. Minimum $1,000. (3)This informational repayment example uses typical loan terms for a freshman borrower who selects the Flat Repayment Option with an 8-year repayment term, has a $10,000 loan that is disbursed in one disbursement and a 7.78% fixed Annual Percentage Rate (“APR”): 54 monthly payments of $25 while in school, followed by 96 monthly payments of $176.21 while in the repayment period, for a total amount of payments of $18,266.38. Loans will never have a full principal and interest monthly payment of less than $50. Your actual rates and repayment terms may vary. Information advertised valid as of 8/03/2026. Variable interest rates may increase after consummation. Approved interest rate will depend on creditworthiness of the applicant(s), lowest advertised rates only available to the most creditworthy applicants and require selection of the Flat Repayment Option with the shortest available loan term.
Min. credit score
Mid-600s
Check Rate
on College Ave website
Check Rate
on Earnest website
Earnest
4.5
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
4.5
NerdWallet ratingNerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
Fixed APR
2.79% - 16.49%Actual rate and available repayment terms will vary based on your financial profile. Fixed annual percentage rates (APR) range from 3.04% to 16.74% (2.79% – 16.49% with Auto Pay discount). Variable annual percentage rates (APR) range from 5.24% to 17.10% (4.99% – 16.85% with Auto Pay discount). Earnest variable interest rate student loans are based on a publicly available index, the 30-day Average Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) published by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. The variable rate is based on the rate published on the 25th day, or the next business day, of the preceding calendar month, rounded to the nearest hundredth of a percent plus a margin and will change on the 1st of each month. The rate will not increase more than once a month, but there is no limit on the amount that the rate could increase at one time. Our lowest rates are only available for our most credit qualified borrowers and requires selection of our shortest term offered, full principal and interest payment while in school, and enrollment in our 0.25% Auto Pay discount from a checking or savings account. Enrolling in Auto Pay is not required as a condition for approval. Interest rates are subject to change.
Min. credit score
Mid-600s
Check Rate
on Earnest website
The latest
by Brian Villanueva