If you’re facing student loan trouble — such as student loan default — you might consider several options, including legal recourse.
A qualified lawyer can help you if you’re being sued over your student loan, or if you have a tricky student loan issue you can’t resolve yourself.
But before you turn to a lawyer, bring questions to your federal student loan servicer, lender or a non-profit debt counseling organization first. There may be other solutions to your problem that are free and don’t require a consultation, such as income-driven repayment plans, deferment and forbearance, private loan refinancing or the temporary Fresh Start program for defaulted federal loans.
» MORE: How to get student loan help
Whether or not you hire a lawyer, pay attention to costs and look for no-cost options and services first. Here’s more information on when to seek legal advice and how to find a student loan lawyer.
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Student loans from our partners
on College Ave website
College Ave
Best for payment flexibility
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
2.59-17.99%
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 5/4/2026. 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
on Sallie Mae website
Sallie Mae
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
2.89-17.49%
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 5/07/2026. 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-600's
on SoFi® website
SoFi®
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
3.23-15.99%
Interest Rates: Eligibility and Important Details. Fixed rates range from 3.23% APR to 15.99% APR with 0.25% autopay discount. Variable rates range from 4.64% APR to 15.99% APR with a 0.25% autopay discount. Unless required to be lower to comply with applicable law, Variable Interest rates are capped at 17.95%. SoFi rate ranges are
current as of 4/23/2026 and are subject to change at any time. Your actual rate will be within the range of rates listed above and will depend on the term and type of repayment option you select, evaluation of your creditworthiness, income, presence of a co-signer (if applicable) and a variety of other factors. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. Check out our eligibility criteria at https://www.sofi.com/eligibility-criteria/. For the SoFi variable-rate product, the variable interest rate for a given month is derived by adding a margin to the 30-day average SOFR index, published two business days preceding such calendar month, rounded up to the nearest one hundredth of one percent (0.01% or 0.0001). APRs for variable-rate loans may increase after origination if the SOFR index increases. Autopay Discount: The SoFi 0.25% autopay interest rate reduction requires you to agree to make monthly payments as outlined in your loan agreement by an automatic monthly deduction from a savings or checking account. This benefit will discontinue and be lost for periods in which you do not pay by automatic deduction from a savings or checking account. When the autopay interest rate deduction is added or removed, the next time the loan is re-amortized (quarterly for fixed rate loans; monthly for variable rate loans),the principal balance of your loan will be spread over the remaining loan term, and your monthly payment amount will change. This benefit is suspended during periods of deferment, grace period, or forbearance. Autopay is not required to receive a loan from SoFi.
Min. credit score
Mid-600s
on Ascent website
Ascent
Best for customer support and wide availability
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
13.09-15.26%
*Ascent's undergraduate and graduate student loans are funded by Bank of Lake Mills or DR Bank, each Member FDIC. Loan products may not be available in certain jurisdictions. Certain restrictions, limitations, terms and conditions may apply for Ascent's Terms and Conditions please visit Ascent Services Terms of Use - Ascent Funding .Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) displayed are effective as of 05/01/2026 and reflect an Automatic Payment Discount (ACH). The ACH discount consists of 0.25% on credit-based college student loans submitted prior to 6/1/2025, a 0.5% discount for on credit-based college student loans submitted on or after 6/1/2025 and a 1.00% discount on outcomes-based loans when you enroll in automatic payments. Loans subject to individual approval, restrictions, and conditions apply. Loan features and information advertised are intended for college student loans and are subject to change at any time.
The final amount approved depends on the borrower's credit history, verifiable cost of attendance as certified by an eligible school and is subject to credit approval and verification of application information. Lowest interest rates require full principal and interest (Immediate) payments, the shortest loan term, a cosigner, and are only available for our most creditworthy applicants and cosigners with the highest average credit scores. Actual APR offered may be higher or lower than the examples above, based on the amount of time you spend in school and any grace period you have before repayment begins. Variable rates may increase after consummation. 1% Cash Back Graduation Reward subject to terms and conditions. For details on Ascent borrower benefits, visit Ascent Borrower Benefits – Terms & Conditions - Ascent Funding . Ascent applicants and borrowers that agree to the AscentUP Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, as well as students associated with an Ascent parent loan application, have access to the AscentUP platform.
The following examples for a $10,000 loan show a 48-month in-school period plus 9 months of grace prior to a full repayment term for 60-months (variable rate), with examples of (i) Interest Only payments, (ii) $25 Minimum payments, (iii) Deferred repayment, and (iv) Immediate Repayment options.
Interest Only Repayment: 5.90% APR, with 57 payments of $49.17 while in-school/grace, 60 payments of $192.88 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $14,376.53.
$25 Minimum Payment: 6.53% APR, with 57 payments of $25.00 while in-school/grace, 60 payments of $234.12 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $15,471.73.
Deferred Repayment: 6.71% APR, with no payment while in-school/grace, 60 payments of $270.31 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $16,181.14.
Immediate Repayment: 3.20% APR, with 60 payments of $180.58, and a total cost of $10,835.02.
The following examples for a $10,000 loan show a 48-month in-school period plus 9 months of grace prior to a full repayment term for 180-months (highest variable rate), with examples of (i) Interest Only payments, (ii) $25 Minimum payments, (iii) Deferred repayment, and (iv) Immediate Repayment options.
Interest Only Repayment: 16.06% APR, with 57 payments of $133.75 while in-school/grace, 180 payments of $147.26 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $34,130.81.
$25 Minimum Payment: 14.46% APR, with 57 payments of $25.00 while in-school/grace, 180 payments of $242.08 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $44,997.01.
Deferred Repayment: 14.89% APR, with no payment while in-school/grace, 180 payments of $281.22 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $49,857.65.
Immediate Repayment: 15.81% APR, with 180 payments of $145.54, and a total cost of $26,193.91.
Min. credit score
Low-Mid 600s
on MPOWER website
MPOWER
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
10.24-15.24%
Min. credit score
None
on Ascent website
Ascent
Best for customer support and wide availability
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
13.09-15.26%
*Ascent's undergraduate and graduate student loans are funded by Bank of Lake Mills or DR Bank, each Member FDIC. Loan products may not be available in certain jurisdictions. Certain restrictions, limitations, terms and conditions may apply for Ascent's Terms and Conditions please visit Ascent Services Terms of Use - Ascent Funding .Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) displayed are effective as of 05/01/2026 and reflect an Automatic Payment Discount (ACH). The ACH discount consists of 0.25% on credit-based college student loans submitted prior to 6/1/2025, a 0.5% discount for on credit-based college student loans submitted on or after 6/1/2025 and a 1.00% discount on outcomes-based loans when you enroll in automatic payments. Loans subject to individual approval, restrictions, and conditions apply. Loan features and information advertised are intended for college student loans and are subject to change at any time.
The final amount approved depends on the borrower's credit history, verifiable cost of attendance as certified by an eligible school and is subject to credit approval and verification of application information. Lowest interest rates require full principal and interest (Immediate) payments, the shortest loan term, a cosigner, and are only available for our most creditworthy applicants and cosigners with the highest average credit scores. Actual APR offered may be higher or lower than the examples above, based on the amount of time you spend in school and any grace period you have before repayment begins. Variable rates may increase after consummation. 1% Cash Back Graduation Reward subject to terms and conditions. For details on Ascent borrower benefits, visit Ascent Borrower Benefits – Terms & Conditions - Ascent Funding . Ascent applicants and borrowers that agree to the AscentUP Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, as well as students associated with an Ascent parent loan application, have access to the AscentUP platform.
The following examples for a $10,000 loan show a 48-month in-school period plus 9 months of grace prior to a full repayment term for 60-months (variable rate), with examples of (i) Interest Only payments, (ii) $25 Minimum payments, (iii) Deferred repayment, and (iv) Immediate Repayment options.
Interest Only Repayment: 5.90% APR, with 57 payments of $49.17 while in-school/grace, 60 payments of $192.88 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $14,376.53.
$25 Minimum Payment: 6.53% APR, with 57 payments of $25.00 while in-school/grace, 60 payments of $234.12 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $15,471.73.
Deferred Repayment: 6.71% APR, with no payment while in-school/grace, 60 payments of $270.31 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $16,181.14.
Immediate Repayment: 3.20% APR, with 60 payments of $180.58, and a total cost of $10,835.02.
The following examples for a $10,000 loan show a 48-month in-school period plus 9 months of grace prior to a full repayment term for 180-months (highest variable rate), with examples of (i) Interest Only payments, (ii) $25 Minimum payments, (iii) Deferred repayment, and (iv) Immediate Repayment options.
Interest Only Repayment: 16.06% APR, with 57 payments of $133.75 while in-school/grace, 180 payments of $147.26 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $34,130.81.
$25 Minimum Payment: 14.46% APR, with 57 payments of $25.00 while in-school/grace, 180 payments of $242.08 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $44,997.01.
Deferred Repayment: 14.89% APR, with no payment while in-school/grace, 180 payments of $281.22 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $49,857.65.
Immediate Repayment: 15.81% APR, with 180 payments of $145.54, and a total cost of $26,193.91.
Min. credit score
Low-Mid 600s
on Funding U website
Funding U
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
7.95-12.49%
Rate includes Autopay discount.
Min. credit score
None
on MPOWER website
MPOWER
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
10.24-15.24%
Min. credit score
None
on SoFi® website
SoFi®
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
3.99-9.99%
With all discounts. Fixed rates range from 3.99% APR to 9.99% APR with 0.25% autopay discount and 0.125% SoFi Plus discount. Variable rates range from 5.74% APR to 9.99% APR with 0.25% autopay discount and 0.125% SoFi Plus discount. Unless required to be lower to comply with applicable law, Variable Interest rates will never exceed 13.95% (the maximum rate for these loans). SoFi rate ranges are current as of 5/6/26 and are subject to change at any time. Your actual rate will be within the range of rates listed above and will depend on the term you select, evaluation of your creditworthiness, income, presence of a co-signer and a variety of other factors. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. For the SoFi variable-rate product, the variable interest rate for a given month is derived by adding a margin to the 30-day average SOFR index, published two business days preceding such calendar month, rounded up to the nearest one hundredth of one percent (0.01% or 0.0001). APRs for variable-rate loans may increase after origination if the SOFR index increases. You may pay more interest over the life of the loan if you refinance with an extended term.
Min. credit score
650
on Earnest website
Earnest
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
3.95-9.99%
Actual rate will vary based on your financial profile. Fixed annual percentage rates (APR) range from 4.20% APR to 10.24% APR (3.95% – 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.
Min. credit score
650
on ELFI website
ELFI
Best for faster repayment options
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
4.29-8.44%
Subject to credit approval. Terms and conditions apply. https://www.elfi.com/terms/
Min. credit score
680
on College Ave website
College Ave
Best for payment flexibility
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
2.59-17.99%
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 5/4/2026. 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
on Sallie Mae website
Sallie Mae
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
2.89-17.49%
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 5/07/2026. 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-600's
on SoFi® website
SoFi®
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
3.23-15.99%
Interest Rates: Eligibility and Important Details. Fixed rates range from 3.23% APR to 15.99% APR with 0.25% autopay discount. Variable rates range from 4.64% APR to 15.99% APR with a 0.25% autopay discount. Unless required to be lower to comply with applicable law, Variable Interest rates are capped at 17.95%. SoFi rate ranges are
current as of 4/23/2026 and are subject to change at any time. Your actual rate will be within the range of rates listed above and will depend on the term and type of repayment option you select, evaluation of your creditworthiness, income, presence of a co-signer (if applicable) and a variety of other factors. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. Check out our eligibility criteria at https://www.sofi.com/eligibility-criteria/. For the SoFi variable-rate product, the variable interest rate for a given month is derived by adding a margin to the 30-day average SOFR index, published two business days preceding such calendar month, rounded up to the nearest one hundredth of one percent (0.01% or 0.0001). APRs for variable-rate loans may increase after origination if the SOFR index increases. Autopay Discount: The SoFi 0.25% autopay interest rate reduction requires you to agree to make monthly payments as outlined in your loan agreement by an automatic monthly deduction from a savings or checking account. This benefit will discontinue and be lost for periods in which you do not pay by automatic deduction from a savings or checking account. When the autopay interest rate deduction is added or removed, the next time the loan is re-amortized (quarterly for fixed rate loans; monthly for variable rate loans),the principal balance of your loan will be spread over the remaining loan term, and your monthly payment amount will change. This benefit is suspended during periods of deferment, grace period, or forbearance. Autopay is not required to receive a loan from SoFi.
Min. credit score
Mid-600s
on College Ave website
College Ave
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
2.59-15.99%
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 5/4/2026. 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
on Sallie Mae website
Sallie Mae
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
2.89-14.99%
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 5/07/2026.
Min. credit score
Mid-600's
on Ascent website
Ascent
Best for customer support and wide availability
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
2.69-16.61%
*Ascent's undergraduate and graduate student loans are funded by Bank of Lake Mills or DR Bank, each Member FDIC. Loan products may not be available in certain jurisdictions. Certain restrictions, limitations, terms and conditions may apply for Ascent's Terms and Conditions please visit Ascent Services Terms of Use - Ascent Funding .Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) displayed are effective as of 05/01/2026 and reflect an Automatic Payment Discount (ACH). The ACH discount consists of 0.25% on credit-based college student loans submitted prior to 6/1/2025, a 0.5% discount for on credit-based college student loans submitted on or after 6/1/2025 and a 1.00% discount on outcomes-based loans when you enroll in automatic payments. Loans subject to individual approval, restrictions, and conditions apply. Loan features and information advertised are intended for college student loans and are subject to change at any time.
The final amount approved depends on the borrower's credit history, verifiable cost of attendance as certified by an eligible school and is subject to credit approval and verification of application information. Lowest interest rates require full principal and interest (Immediate) payments, the shortest loan term, a cosigner, and are only available for our most creditworthy applicants and cosigners with the highest average credit scores. Actual APR offered may be higher or lower than the examples above, based on the amount of time you spend in school and any grace period you have before repayment begins. Variable rates may increase after consummation. 1% Cash Back Graduation Reward subject to terms and conditions. For details on Ascent borrower benefits, visit Ascent Borrower Benefits – Terms & Conditions - Ascent Funding . Ascent applicants and borrowers that agree to the AscentUP Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, as well as students associated with an Ascent parent loan application, have access to the AscentUP platform.
The following examples for a $10,000 loan show a 48-month in-school period plus 9 months of grace prior to a full repayment term for 60-months (variable rate), with examples of (i) Interest Only payments, (ii) $25 Minimum payments, (iii) Deferred repayment, and (iv) Immediate Repayment options.
Interest Only Repayment: 5.90% APR, with 57 payments of $49.17 while in-school/grace, 60 payments of $192.88 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $14,376.53.
$25 Minimum Payment: 6.53% APR, with 57 payments of $25.00 while in-school/grace, 60 payments of $234.12 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $15,471.73.
Deferred Repayment: 6.71% APR, with no payment while in-school/grace, 60 payments of $270.31 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $16,181.14.
Immediate Repayment: 3.20% APR, with 60 payments of $180.58, and a total cost of $10,835.02.
The following examples for a $10,000 loan show a 48-month in-school period plus 9 months of grace prior to a full repayment term for 180-months (highest variable rate), with examples of (i) Interest Only payments, (ii) $25 Minimum payments, (iii) Deferred repayment, and (iv) Immediate Repayment options.
Interest Only Repayment: 16.06% APR, with 57 payments of $133.75 while in-school/grace, 180 payments of $147.26 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $34,130.81.
$25 Minimum Payment: 14.46% APR, with 57 payments of $25.00 while in-school/grace, 180 payments of $242.08 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $44,997.01.
Deferred Repayment: 14.89% APR, with no payment while in-school/grace, 180 payments of $281.22 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $49,857.65.
Immediate Repayment: 15.81% APR, with 180 payments of $145.54, and a total cost of $26,193.91.
Min. credit score
Low-Mid 600s
on College Ave website
College Ave
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
2.59-17.99%
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 5/4/2026. 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
on Ascent website
Ascent
Best for customer support
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
5.25-15.51%
*Ascent's undergraduate and graduate student loans are funded by Bank of Lake Mills or DR Bank, each Member FDIC. Loan products may not be available in certain jurisdictions. Certain restrictions, limitations, terms and conditions may apply for Ascent's Terms and Conditions please visit Ascent Services Terms of Use - Ascent Funding .Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) displayed are effective as of 05/01/2026 and reflect an Automatic Payment Discount (ACH). The ACH discount consists of 0.25% on credit-based college student loans submitted prior to 6/1/2025, a 0.5% discount for on credit-based college student loans submitted on or after 6/1/2025 and a 1.00% discount on outcomes-based loans when you enroll in automatic payments. Loans subject to individual approval, restrictions, and conditions apply. Loan features and information advertised are intended for college student loans and are subject to change at any time.
The final amount approved depends on the borrower's credit history, verifiable cost of attendance as certified by an eligible school and is subject to credit approval and verification of application information. Lowest interest rates require full principal and interest (Immediate) payments, the shortest loan term, a cosigner, and are only available for our most creditworthy applicants and cosigners with the highest average credit scores. Actual APR offered may be higher or lower than the examples above, based on the amount of time you spend in school and any grace period you have before repayment begins. Variable rates may increase after consummation. 1% Cash Back Graduation Reward subject to terms and conditions. For details on Ascent borrower benefits, visit Ascent Borrower Benefits – Terms & Conditions - Ascent Funding . Ascent applicants and borrowers that agree to the AscentUP Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, as well as students associated with an Ascent parent loan application, have access to the AscentUP platform.
The following examples for a $10,000 loan show a 48-month in-school period plus 9 months of grace prior to a full repayment term for 60-months (variable rate), with examples of (i) Interest Only payments, (ii) $25 Minimum payments, (iii) Deferred repayment, and (iv) Immediate Repayment options.
Interest Only Repayment: 5.90% APR, with 57 payments of $49.17 while in-school/grace, 60 payments of $192.88 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $14,376.53.
$25 Minimum Payment: 6.53% APR, with 57 payments of $25.00 while in-school/grace, 60 payments of $234.12 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $15,471.73.
Deferred Repayment: 6.71% APR, with no payment while in-school/grace, 60 payments of $270.31 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $16,181.14.
Immediate Repayment: 3.20% APR, with 60 payments of $180.58, and a total cost of $10,835.02.
The following examples for a $10,000 loan show a 48-month in-school period plus 9 months of grace prior to a full repayment term for 180-months (highest variable rate), with examples of (i) Interest Only payments, (ii) $25 Minimum payments, (iii) Deferred repayment, and (iv) Immediate Repayment options.
Interest Only Repayment: 16.06% APR, with 57 payments of $133.75 while in-school/grace, 180 payments of $147.26 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $34,130.81.
$25 Minimum Payment: 14.46% APR, with 57 payments of $25.00 while in-school/grace, 180 payments of $242.08 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $44,997.01.
Deferred Repayment: 14.89% APR, with no payment while in-school/grace, 180 payments of $281.22 during the repayment term, and a total cost of $49,857.65.
Immediate Repayment: 15.81% APR, with 180 payments of $145.54, and a total cost of $26,193.91.
Min. credit score
660
on SoFi® website
SoFi®
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula for student loan products takes into account more than 50 data points across multiple categories, including repayment options, customer service, lender transparency, loan eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Fixed APR
4.12-16.73%
Interest Rates: Eligibility and Important Details. Fixed rates range from 4.12% APR to 16.73% APR with 0.25% autopay discount. Variable rates range from 5.95% APR to 16.73% APR with a 0.25% autopay discount. Unless required to be lower to comply with applicable law, Variable Interest rates are capped at 17.95%. SoFi rate ranges are current as of 4/23/2026 and are subject to change at any time. Your actual rate will be within the range of rates listed above and will depend on the term and type of repayment option you select, evaluation of your creditworthiness, income, presence of a co-signer (if applicable) and a variety of other factors. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. Check out our eligibility criteria at https://www.sofi.com/eligibility-criteria/. For the SoFi variable-rate product, the variable interest rate for a given month is derived by adding a margin to the 30-day average SOFR index, published two business days preceding such calendar month, rounded up to the nearest one hundredth of one percent (0.01% or 0.0001). APRs for variable-rate loans may increase after origination if the SOFR index increases. Autopay Discount: The SoFi 0.25% autopay interest rate reduction requires you to agree to make monthly payments as outlined in your loan agreement by an automatic monthly deduction from a savings or checking account. This benefit will discontinue and be lost for periods in which you do not pay by automatic deduction from a savings or checking account. When the autopay interest rate deduction is added or removed, the next time the loan is re-amortized (quarterly for fixed rate loans; monthly for variable rate loans),the principal balance of your loan will be spread over the remaining loan term, and your monthly payment amount will change. This benefit is suspended during periods of deferment, grace period, or forbearance. Autopay is not required to receive a loan from SoFi.
Min. credit score
Mid-600s
When should I seek legal advice for student loans?
It’s a good idea to consult a student loan lawyer if you’re in default or collections, or if a private lender has sued you over your student loans. Even if you don’t hire a lawyer to represent you in court, a one-time legal consultation could help you learn your rights and what to expect in the litigation process.
A student loan lawyer may also assist with:
- Loan repayment challenges you can’t navigate on your own.
- Disputes with your servicer or lender.
- Discharging student loans in bankruptcy.
- Student loan fraud.
- Predatory lending practices.
If you’re dealing with misleading schools or errors made by your servicer or lender, calling a lawyer isn’t the best route. Instead, file a student loan complaint with the Federal Student Aid office, your state ombudsman group or the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
How can I find a student loan lawyer?
Attorneys are overseen by state licensing boards (called bar associations) and held to strict rules and standards. Your local bar association can connect you with a lawyer referral service.
You may also consider looking for a lawyer through the National Association of Consumer Advocates. This is a national association of 1,500 consumer rights attorneys, some of whom may handle student loan issues.
Keep in mind: there are not many lawyers focused squarely on student loans. Two prominent U.S. student loan attorneys are Adam Minsky and Stanley Tate.
Before hiring a lawyer, check that they are in good standing with their bar association. You can do this by searching their name on the relevant bar website.
How much does a student loan lawyer cost?
In general, student loan lawyers are pricey. Fee structures vary, but the cost of hiring a student loan lawyer can range from $500 to several thousand dollars.
If you need legal help but can’t afford a lawyer, you may qualify for free (or reduced) services from a legal aid group. You can search for your local legal aid organization on LawHelp.org.
Other ways to get student loan help
A lawyer may be able to help if you are in default, but before it comes to that, consider ways to take back control of your student loan payments.
If you’re struggling with your student loan debt, first speak with your student loan servicer or lender to:
- Discuss repayment options, such as an income-driven repayment plan.
- Take a temporary payment pause.
- Temporarily reduce your monthly payments.
If your problem is with your lender or servicer or you’re not getting the help you need, consider filing a student loan complaint. Next, look for a legitimate student loan help organization that offers counseling. Consider these vetted resources for student loan help; they are established organizations with verified histories:
| Student loan help resource | Best for |
|---|---|
| Advice on repayment plans, forgiveness programs and dispute resolution. | |
| Comprehensive information on options for student loan borrowers. | |
| Advocacy on behalf of all borrowers to influence policy. | |
| Complete financial review for struggling borrowers, which can include advice on student loan options and plans for dealing with other debt. | |
| Advice on repayment plans, help with paperwork and budget counseling. | |
| Free virtual workshops and one-on-one appointments for struggling borrowers. | |
| Information for student loan borrowers and an attorney directory. |
Many of these organizations offer advice for free. In some cases, you may need to pay a fee, as with a certified nonprofit credit counseling agency.
None of the organizations above call, text or email borrowers with offers of debt resolution.
Offers of help that you have not sought out are likely to be student loan scams. While it’s not illegal for companies to charge for services such as consolidation or enrollment in a payment plan, those are steps you can do yourself for free.
Avoid any debt relief companies that demand money upfront.
