Skip Navigation
Edvisors Star Logo
Edvisors Logo
  • Compare Lenders
    • PRIVATE STUDENT LOANS
    • REFINANCE STUDENT LOANS

    featured articles

    • Best Private Student Loans for May 2025
    • Student Loan Comparison: Federal Loans vs Private Loans
    • Parent PLUS Loans vs Private Student Loans
    • How Does Interest on Student Loans Work?
    • Private Student Loan Cosigner: Everything you Need to Know
    • View All Articles >
    Earnest Private Student Loan

    Variable Rates: 4.99% - 16.85% APR1

    Fixed Rates: 3.47% - 16.49% APR1

    Apply Now

    featured articles

    • Compare Lenders
    • Best Student Loan Refinance Companies for May 2025
    • Federal Student Loan Repayment Plans
    • Student Loan Forgiveness: How to Get Student Loans Forgiven
    • Repayment Plans for Private Student Loans
    • Parent PLUS Loan Forgiveness
    • View All Articles >
    Earnest Private Student Loan

    Variable rates as low as: 5.88% APR (with Autopay)*

    Fixed rates as low as: 4.25% APR (with Autopay)*

    Apply Now
  • Scholarships
    • COLLEGE GRANTS
    • COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS
    • EMPLOYER
    • MILITARY

    featured articles

    • What's the difference between scholarships and grants?
    • Graduate Fellowships
    • View All Articles >
    Enter to Win $2,500 to Help Pay for College

    This is an advertisement.

    featured articles

    • How to Find Scholarships
    • Top Tips for Winning Scholarships for College
    • Apply for Free Scholarships for College
    • Most Popular Scholarships for College Students in 2025
    • View All Articles >
    Enter to Win $2,500 to Help Pay for College

    This is an advertisement.

    featured articles

    • What is Federal Work Study Program?
    • Employer Tuition Assistance Programs: How Do They Work?
    • View All Articles >
    Enter to Win $2,500 to Help Pay for College

    This is an advertisement.

    featured articles

    • GI Bill
    • Military Service Academies
    • ROTC Scholarships
    • View All Articles >
    Enter to Win $2,500 to Help Pay for College

    This is an advertisement.

  • Plan for College
    • CAREERS
    • COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
    • FAFSA
    • SCHOLARSHIPS
    • PAYING FOR COLLEGE
    • STUDENT LIFE BLOG

    featured articles

    • Best Job Search Sites May 2025
    • Resumes That Get Noticed
    • High Paying Careers
    • STEM Careers
    • View All Articles >
    Enter to Win $2,500 to Help Pay for College

    This is an advertisement.

    featured articles

    • Measuring Academic Fit: Reach, Match and Safety Schools
    • Need-Blind Admissions
    • How Long is a College Essay
    • When are College Applications Due
    • How to Write a Good College Essay
    • View All Articles >
    Enter to Win $2,500 to Help Pay for College

    This is an advertisement.

    featured articles

    • Filing the FAFSA 2025-2026: A Simple Guide for Students
    • FAFSA Deadlines for 2025-2026
    • FAFSA FAQ - Your FAFSA Questions Answered
    • View All Articles >
    Enter to Win $2,500 to Help Pay for College

    This is an advertisement.

    featured articles

    • Most Popular Scholarships for College Students in 2025
    • Apply for Free Scholarships for College
    • College Scholarships for Kids
    • Most Prestigious Undergraduate Scholarships
    • Las mejores becas para estudiantes hispanos y latinos
    • View All Articles >
    Enter to Win $2,500 to Help Pay for College

    This is an advertisement.

    featured articles

    • How to Pay for College
    • Tuition Payment Plans
    • Pros and Cons: Borrowing From My 401K to Pay for College
    • Paying College Tuition with a Credit Card
    • Best Ways to Pay for College Without Financial Aid
    • View All Articles >
    Enter to Win $2,500 to Help Pay for College

    This is an advertisement.

    featured articles

    • Financial Aid Disbursement: When and How You Will Get It
    • Should I Pay Off My Student Loans Right Now
    • How to Minimize Student Loan Debt
    • View All Articles >
    Enter to Win $2,500 to Help Pay for College

    This is an advertisement.

  • Student Loans
    • FAFSA
    • PRIVATE STUDENT LOANS
    • FEDERAL STUDENT LOANS
    • REPAY STUDENT LOANS
    • LENDER REVIEWS

    featured articles

    • Filing the FAFSA 2025-2026: A Simple Guide for Students
    • FAFSA FAQ - Your FAFSA Questions Answered
    • FAFSA Deadlines for 2025-2026
    • FAFSA School Codes
    • FAFSA 2023-2024 Guide & Resources
    • View All Articles >
    Earnest Private Student Loan

    Variable Rates: 4.99% - 16.85% APR1

    Fixed Rates: 3.47% - 16.49% APR1

    Apply Now

    featured articles

    • Best Private Student Loans for May 2025
    • Student Loan Comparison: Federal Loans vs Private Loans
    • Parent PLUS Loans vs Private Student Loans
    • How Does Interest on Student Loans Work?
    • Private Student Loan Cosigner: Everything you Need to Know
    • View All Articles >
    Earnest Private Student Loan

    Variable Rates: 4.99% - 16.85% APR1

    Fixed Rates: 3.47% - 16.49% APR1

    Apply Now

    featured articles

    • Filing the FAFSA 2025-2026: A Simple Guide for Students
    • FAFSA FAQ - Your FAFSA Questions Answered
    • The complete guide to federal undergraduate student loans
    • What are Federal Parent PLUS Loans and How to Apply
    • Financial Aid for Graduate School
    • Compare Subsidized and Unsubsidized Student Loans
    • View All Articles >
    Earnest Private Student Loan

    Variable Rates: 4.99% - 16.85% APR1

    Fixed Rates: 3.47% - 16.49% APR1

    Apply Now

    featured articles

    • Best Student Loan Refinance Companies for May 2025
    • Federal Student Loan Repayment Plans
    • Student Loan Forgiveness: How to Get Student Loans Forgiven
    • Repayment Plans for Private Student Loans
    • Should You Refinance Federal Student Loans?
    • Parent PLUS Loan Forgiveness
    • View All Articles >
    Enter the Repayment Relief Sweepstakes

    This is an advertisement.

    featured articles

    • Sallie Mae Student Loan Review
    • College Ave Student Loan Review
    • SoFi Student Loan Review
    • Ascent Student Loan Review
    • View All Articles >
    Earnest Private Student Loan

    Variable Rates: 4.99% - 16.85% APR1

    Fixed Rates: 3.47% - 16.49% APR1

    Apply Now
  • Credit Cards
    • CARD REVIEWS
    • BEST CREDIT CARDS
    • CREDIT CARD FAQS

    featured articles

    • Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card Review
    Self Credit Builder: Build Credit. Build Savings. Build Dreams.

    This is an advertisement.

    featured articles

    • Best Credit Cards for 2025
    • Best Cash Back Credit Cards
    • Best 0% Introductory APR Credit Cards
    • Best Secured Credit Cards for 2025
    • Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards
    Self Credit Builder: Build Credit. Build Savings. Build Dreams.

    This is an advertisement.

    featured articles

    • How to Build Credit?
    • What Age Can You Get a Credit Card?
    • What is a Secured Credit Card?
    • What is an Unsecured Credit Card?
    Self Credit Builder: Build Credit. Build Savings. Build Dreams.

    This is an advertisement.

  • Money Management
    • BANKING
    • BUDGETING
    • SAVING
    • DEBT MANAGEMENT
    • CREDIT
    • INVESTING
    • RISK MANAGEMENT

    featured articles

    • What is Online Banking
    • Student Checking Accounts
    • Debit Cards with Rewards
    • View All Articles >
    Chase College Checking Visa Debit

    This is an advertisement.

    featured articles

    • Best Budgeting Apps May 2025
    • Budgeting Tips
    • Budgeting for Beginners
    • View All Articles >
    YNAB budgeting logo

    This is an advertisement.

    featured articles

    • Financial Goals
    • How to Save Money as a College Student
    • What is an Emergency Fund
    • View All Articles >
    YNAB budgeting logo

    This is an advertisement.

    featured articles

    • How to Pay Off Debt
    • Debt Relief
    • What is a Debt Management Plan
    • View All Articles >
    YNAB budgeting logo

    This is an advertisement.

    featured articles

    • How to Check Your Credit Score
    • Best Credit Building Apps May 2025
    • What is Credit?
    • View All Articles >
    Self Credit Builder: Build Credit. Build Savings. Build Dreams.

    This is an advertisement.

    featured articles

    • Investing for Beginners
    • Best Investment Apps May 2025
    • Understanding the Stock Market
    • View All Articles >
    YNAB budgeting logo

    This is an advertisement.

    featured articles

    • What is Risk Management
    • How to Prevent Identity Theft
    • What is Insurance
    • View All Articles >
    YNAB budgeting logo

    This is an advertisement.

  • Student LIFE Blog
  • Compare Lenders
    • Private Student Loans
    • Refinance Student Loans
  • Scholarships
  • Plan for College
  • Student Loans
  • Credit Cards
  • Money Management
  • Student LIFE Blog
Login
Register
  • Dashboard
  • My Profile
  • Logout
Search Box Form
Win a $2,500 Scholarship
Need money for college? Enter our monthly scholarship sweepstakes.
Enter Here
Advertiser Disclosure
×

Edvisors (“Edvisors Network, Inc.”) provides independent advertising-supported platforms for consumers to search compare and apply for private student loans. Loan offers from participating lenders that appear on our websites are not affiliated with any college and/or universities, and there are no colleges and/or universities which endorse Edvisors’ products or services. Lender search results do not constitute an official college preferred lender list. Edvisors receives compensation from lenders that appear on this site. This compensation may impact the placement of where lenders appear on this site, for example, the order in which the lenders appear when included in a list. Not all lenders participate in our sites and lenders that do participate may not offer loans to every school.

Edvisors is not a lender and makes no representations or warranties about your eligibility for a particular loan or financial aid. Lenders are solely responsible for any and all credit decisions, loan approval and rates, terms and other costs of the loan offered and may vary based upon the lender you select. Please check with your school or lender directly for information related to your personal eligibility.

Edvisors has endeavored to provide accurate information. However, the results provided by lenders are for illustrative purposes only and accuracy is not guaranteed, as such, Edvisors assumes no responsibility for errors or omission in the information provided.

×
Get Your Free Guide to Filing the FAFSA Today!

Thank you for your interest in Edvisors' 2020-2021 Guide to Filing the FAFSA.

Please complete the form below to access your free copy.

Thank you! Click here to download your free FAFSA Guide.

I am a:

×
College knowledge starts here!

Enter your email below to receive your Student Loan Handbook from Edvisors.

Please check your email for the Student Loan Handbook.

After Navigation
Home Student Loans Parent Student Loans Private Parent Loans
  • Contents
  • Compare Private Parent Student Loan Lenders
  • Complete the Application With Your Preferred Lender
  • How to Apply for a Private Parent Student Loan
  • Eligibility for a Private Parent Student Loan
  • Who Pays a Parent Student Loan?
  • Benefits of Private Parent Student Loans
  • Parent Student Loan Interest Rates
  • Private Parent Student Loan FAQs
  • Learn More About Private Student Loans

Private Parent Student Loans

Tré Norman
By Tré Norman
Updated on April 8, 2025
Email This Article
Fill out the form below to send a copy of this article to your email.
By clicking "Submit" I have read and agree to the Edvisors' Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. We strongly encourage you to read our Privacy Policy to understand how we use and share your information.
A copy of this article has been sent to your email.

Parent loans from private lenders allow parents to assist with covering their child’s college costs without increasing the student’s loan debt. Unlike certain private student loans that require parents to cosign or share borrowing responsibilities, these loans designate the parent as the primary borrower.

Compare Private Parent Student Loan Lenders

To identify the most appropriate parent student loan for your situation, it's crucial to meticulously assess various lenders. Take into account key aspects such as the length of the repayment period and the Annual Percentage Rate (APR). Some private lenders offer advantages, including short-term deferment options during periods of qualified financial hardship. Additionally, certain lenders provide loan forgiveness if the student for whom the loan was taken out dies or suffers from a permanent and total disability.

Keep in mind that the lowest interest rates typically apply to the most creditworthy applicants. At Edvisors, we simplify the process of comparing your options. Simply enter your child's school below, and we'll provide you with a list of lenders we collaborate with, who offer loans for that specific school.

 

Complete the Application With Your Preferred Lender

Once you have decided on a particular lender, simply complete an application with them to see if you qualify. Many lenders offer online and mobile friendly applications to streamline this process. Some lenders may offer the option to get pre-qualified after you provide them with some basic information.

When grants, scholarships, and federal aid are not enough, choose the Smart Option Student Loan® for Undergraduate Students. You can apply for the money you need for college, and the flexibility you want. Apply Now with Sallie Mae.

How to Apply for a Private Parent Student Loan

To apply for a private parent loan, you will need to gather some basic information to fill out the application. You should be prepared to enter the following:

  • Primary information - Your name and email address
  • Contact information - Your phone number and physical address
  • Personal information - Your date of birth, citizenship status, Social Security Number (SSN), and proof of income
  • School and student information - Your student’s SSN, your relationship to the student, the student’s estimated financial aid, the year in school the loan will cover, and so on.

If your application is approved by the lender, you will still need to sign for your loan and accept the full terms. After signing for your loan, the school’s Financial Aid Office will be asked to certify (i.e. confirm) the loan amount before it can be disbursed. Loan proceeds are usually sent directly to the school, unless otherwise specified in your agreement with the lender.

Eligibility for a Private Parent Student Loan

In general, your eligibility for a private parent student loan will depend on your credit history and ability to repay it. The minimum credit score, income, etc., will vary from lender to lender.

Some of the factors affecting your eligibility may include the following:

  • Credit score
  • Debt-to-income ratio, or DTR
  • Income
  • Employment history
  • Citizenship
  • Loan limits (minimums and maximums)

Who Pays a Parent Student Loan?

With a parent student loan, the parent is legally responsible for paying back the loan. This is because the parent is the primary borrower. This differs from a traditional private student loan where the student is the primary borrower and a parent acts as the cosigner. With those loans, the child and the parent are co-borrowers which means that they are both equally responsible and obligated to repay the loan. If a parent has trouble repaying a parent student loan, it will impact their credit history but not that of their child, even though the loan was taken out for the child’s education.

This may seem like a big responsibility for the parent to bear, but parents may have additional options. For example, parents can choose to refinance the student loan into the child’s name. This will require that your child has the means to take over the loan, including demonstrating stable employment and a good credit history.

An additional option is to cosign on a student loan refinance that features cosigner release. With this option, you cosign on your child’s refinance loan. After a series of consecutive, on-time monthly payments (typically 12 to 24 months) your child may request that you (the cosigner) are released from the loan.

Benefits of Private Parent Student Loans

Private parent loans have a number of benefits. They do not generally have fees such as application or origination fees. The interest rates on private parent loans are based on current market trends and can be more competitive than the rate offered for parent PLUS loans, particularly for borrowers with strong credit. And most lenders offer an interest rate deduction when you enroll in automatic payments.

While private parent loans do not come with the same government benefits as a PLUS loan, you may find that the benefits they do offer can potentially provide you with a better deal.

In summary, here are some of the benefits you might receive with a private parent student loan:

  • Competitive interest rates
  • Little to no loan fees
  • No penalties for paying off the loan early
  • Interest rate deduction after enrolling in automatic payments
  • Help your child pay for school without adding to their total student loan debt

Parent Student Loan Interest Rates

  Private Parent Student Loan  Parent PLUS Loan
 Interest Rate Type  Variable or Fixed  Fixed
 Current Interest Rate  Variable as low as 5.09% and fixed as low as 4.24%  9.08% (for loans disbursed between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025)

Best Private Parent Loans for College

Earnest Private Student Loan

Fixed APR 3.47% - 16.49%1
Variable APR 4.99% - 16.85%1
Apply Now
Featured Lender
Earnest Private Student Loan
  • Check your eligibility in just 2 minutes
  • No fees for origination, disbursement, prepayment, or late payment3
  • Skip a payment once per year (once repayment period restarted)4

This information is for graduate and undergraduate students attending participating degree-granting schools. Borrowers must be U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents if the school is located outside of the United States. Non-U.S. citizen borrowers who reside in the U.S. are eligible with a creditworthy cosigner (who must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident) and are required to provide an unexpired government-issued photo ID to verify identity. Applications are subject to a requested minimum loan amount of $1,000. Current credit and other eligibility criteria apply.

Actual rate and available repayment terms will vary based on your income. Fixed rates range from 3.72% APR to 16.74% APR (excludes 0.25% Auto Pay discount). Variable rates range from 5.24% APR to 17.10% APR (excludes 0.25% Auto Pay discount). Earnest variable interest rate student loan origination 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 per month. Although the rate will vary after you are approved, it will never exceed 36% (the maximum allowable for this loan). Please note, Earnest Private Student Loans are not available in Nevada. Our lowest rates are only available for our most credit qualified borrowers and contain our .25% auto pay discount from a checking or savings account. It is important to note that the 0.25% Auto Pay discount is not available while loan payments are deferred.

1You can take advantage of the Auto Pay interest rate reduction by setting up and maintaining active and automatic ACH withdrawal of your loan payment. 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. For multi-party loans, only one party may enroll in Auto Pay.

2Nine-month grace period is not available for borrowers who choose our Principal and Interest Repayment plan while in school.

3Earnest does not charge fees for origination, late payments, or prepayments. Florida 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.

4Earnest clients may skip one payment every 12 months. Your first request to skip a payment can be made once you’ve made at least 6 months of consecutive on-time 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. 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.

The information provided on this page is updated as of 02/19/2025. Earnest reserves the right to change, pause, or terminate product offerings at any time without notice.

Earnest Private Student Loans are made by One American Bank, Member FDIC, or FinWise Bank, Member FDIC. One American Bank, 515 S. Minnesota Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104. Finwise Bank, 756 East Winchester, Suite 100, Murray, UT 84107.

Earnest loans are serviced by Earnest Operations LLC, 300 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, Suite 340, Oakland 94612. NMLS #1204917, with support from Higher Education Loan Authority of the State of Missouri (MOHELA) (NMLS# 1442770) One American Bank, FinWise Bank, and Earnest LLC and its subsidiaries, including Earnest Operations LLC, are not sponsored by agencies of the United States of America.

© 2025 Earnest LLC. All rights reserved.

THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT. YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO MAKE ANY PAYMENT OR TAKE ANY OTHER ACTION IN RESPONSE TO THIS OFFER.

Citizens Bank Logo

Fixed APR 3.49% - 15.49%1
Variable APR 4.99% - 15.51%1
Cosigner Recommended
Apply Now
Featured Lender
Citizens Bank Logo
  • Get your rate in about 2 minutes4
  • 4x more likely to be approved by applying with a qualified cosigner5
  • No Application or Origination Fees

1Student Loan Rate Disclosure: Variable interest rates range from 4.99% - 15.60% (4.99% - 15.61% APR). Fixed interest rates range from 3.99% - 15.60% (3.99% - 15.61% APR).

2Automatic Payment Discount: Borrowers will be eligible to receive a 0.25 percentage point interest rate reduction on their student loans owned by Citizens Bank, N.A. during such time as payments are required to be made and our loan servicer is authorized to automatically deduct payments each month from any bank account the borrower designates. Discount is not available when payments are not due, such as during forbearance. If our loan servicer is unable to successfully withdraw the automatic deductions from the designated account three or more times within any 12-month period, the borrower will no longer be eligible for this discount.

3Loyalty Discount: The borrower will be eligible for a 0.25 percentage point interest rate reduction on their loan if the borrower or their co-signer (if applicable) has a qualifying account in existence with us at the time the borrower and their co-signer (if applicable) have submitted a completed application authorizing us to review their credit request for the loan. The following are qualifying accounts: personal checking, personal savings, personal credit card or previous student loans owned by Citizens Bank, N.A. Please note, our checking and savings account options are only available in the following states: CT, DC, DE, FL, MA, MD, MI, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, VA, and VT and some products may have an associated cost. This discount will be reflected in the interest rate disclosed in the Loan Approval Disclosure that will be provided to the borrower once the loan is approved. Limit of one Loyalty Discount per loan and discount will not be applied to prior loans. The Loyalty Discount will remain in effect for the life of the loan.

4Get My Rate: Selecting “Get My Rate” only requires a "soft credit pull" which does not affect your credit score. Submitting a full application will result in an inquiry on your credit report.

5Citizens Undergraduate Booked Loans from 10/1/2023 through 9/30/2024 were 4 times more likely to be approved with a qualified cosigner.

6Multi-Year Approval: Funds available for future use are subject to a soft credit inquiry at time of your next request to verify continued eligibility. After we make the initial Loan to you, you must continue to meet eligibility criteria to obtain additional funds under the Multi-Year Approval feature. Terms and conditions are outlined in the promissory note. Multi-Year Approval borrowers have a 99% approval rate on future requests for additional funds. The additional funds approval rate is based on the percentage of approved Multi-Year borrowers from Citizens between October 1, 2023 and October 1, 2024. The approval rate represents only borrowers who had previously accepted the Multi-Year Approval offer. Please Note: International students are not eligible for Multi-Year Approval.

Information advertised valid as of 05/01/25. Rates and offer subject to change. All accounts, loans and services subject to individual approval.

© 2025 Citizens Financial Group, Inc. All rights reserved. Citizens is a brand name of Citizens Bank, N.A. Member FDIC

Sallie Mae Logo

Fixed APR 3.49% - 15.99%1
Variable APR 4.54% - 14.71%1
Cosigner Recommended
Apply Now
Featured Lender
Sallie Mae Logo
  • Choose the #1 Private Student Loan Lender in the Nation. Sallie Mae is trusted by more families than any other private student loan lender.
  • Applying online is easy - you could receive a credit result in about 10 minutes.2

Borrow Responsibly

We encourage students and families to start with savings, grants, scholarships, and federal student loans to pay for college. Students and families should evaluate all anticipated monthly loan payments, and how much the student expects to earn in the future, before considering a private student loan.

Explore federal loans and compare to make sure you understand the terms and features. Private student loans that have variable rates can go up over the life of the loan. Federal student loans are required by law to provide a range of flexible repayment options, including, but not limited to, income -based repayment and income-contingent repayment plans, and loan forgiveness and deferment benefits, which other student loans are not required to provide. Federal loans generally have origination fees, but are available to students regardless of income.

Loans for Undergraduate & Career Training Students are not intended for graduate students and are subject to credit approval, identity verification, signed loan documents, and school certification. Student must attend a participating school. Student or cosigner must meet the age of majority in their state of residence. Students who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents must reside in the U.S., attend school in the U.S., apply with a creditworthy cosigner (who must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident), and provide an unexpired government-issued photo ID. Requested loan amount must be at least $1,000.

1Advertised 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.

2Although we do not charge a penalty or fee if you prepay your loan, any prepayment will be applied as outlined in your promissory note-first to Unpaid Fees and costs, then to Unpaid Interest, and then to Current Principal.

3Based on a comparison of the percentage of students who were approved with a cosigner to the percentage of students who were approved without a cosigner from October 1, 2022 to September 30, 2023.

4For 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.

Information advertised valid as of 04/17/2025.

Edvisors is not the creditor for these loans and is compensated by Sallie Mae for the referral of Sallie Mae loan customers.

SALLIE MAE RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS, SERVICES, AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE.

© 2025 Sallie Mae Bank. Sallie Mae loans are made by Sallie Mae Bank. Sallie Mae, the Sallie Mae logo, and other Sallie Mae names and logos are service marks or registered service marks of Sallie Mae Bank. All other names and logos used are the trademarks or service marks of their respective owners.

SLM Corporation and its subsidiaries, including Sallie Mae Bank, are not sponsored by or agencies of the United States of America. W646400 0325

College Ave Student Loans

Fixed APR 3.47% - 17.99%1
Variable APR 4.44% - 17.99%1
Apply Now
Featured Lender
College Ave Student Loans
  • Competitive APRs starting at 3.47%1
  • Coverage up to 100% of your school-certified cost of attendance ($1,000 minimum) 2
  • Apply online in 3 minutes and get an instant credit decision

College Ave's student loan products are made available through Firstrust Bank, member FDIC, First Citizens Community Bank, member FDIC, or M.Y. Safra Bank, FSB, member FDIC. All loans are subject to individual approval and adherence to underwriting guidelines. Program restrictions, other terms, and conditions apply.

1All 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.

2As certified by your school and less any other financial aid you might receive. Minimum $1,000.

3This 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 03/03/2025. 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.

Ascent offers loans that power bright futures

Fixed APR 3.44% - 15.00%*
Variable APR 4.95% - 14.85%*
Cosigner Recommended
Apply Now
Featured Lender
Ascent offers loans that power bright futures
  • AFFORDABLE fixed rates starting at 3.44% APR with Automatic Debit Discount*
  • 1% CASH BACK Graduation Reward*
  • COVER UP TO 100% of your tuition and eligible living expenses.

* 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: AscentFunding.com/Ts&Cs. Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) displayed above are effective as of 5/1/2025 and reflect an Automatic Payment Discount of 0.25% for credit-based college student loans and 1.00% discount on outcomes-based loans when you enroll in automatic payments. The Full P&I (Immediate) Repayment option is only available for college loans (except for outcomes-based loans) originated on or after June 3, 2024. For more information, see repayment examples or review the Ascent Student Loans Terms and Conditions. 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. 1% Cash Back Graduation Reward subject to terms and conditions. For details on Ascent borrower benefits, visit AscentFunding.com/BorrowerBenefits. The AscentUP platform is only available to eligible Ascent borrowers and subject to terms and conditions.

The minimum amount is $2,001 except for the state of Massachusetts. Minimum loan amount for borrowers with a Massachusetts permanent address is $6,001.

Refinance student loans with SoFi

Fixed APR 3.54% - 15.99%*
Variable APR 4.64% - 15.99%*
Apply Now
Featured Lender
Refinance student loans with SoFi
  • All online, all easy.
  • SoFi private student loans cover up to 100% of school-certified costs.
  • No fees required.
  • Repay your way with flexible repayment options (find the monthly student loan payment and rate that fits your budget).
  • Applying with a cosigner may increase your chances of approval and getting a better rate.*
  • Over 1 million students have chosen SoFi.

SoFi Private Student Loan

Undergraduate, Graduate, MBA, Law, Health Interest Rates: Eligibility and Important Details. Fixed rates range from 3.54% 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 1/7/25 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. The SoFi 0.25% autopay interest rate reduction requires you to agree to make monthly principal and interest payments 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. The benefit lowers your interest rate but does not change the amount of your monthly payment. This benefit is suspended during periods of deferment and forbearance. Autopay is not required to receive a loan from SoFi. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

Parent

Interest Rates: Eligibility and Important Details. Fixed rates range from 5.74% APR to 16.85% APR with a 0.25% autopay discount. Variable rates range from 6.07% APR – 16.85% 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 1/7/25 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. The SoFi 0.25% autopay interest rate reduction requires you to agree to make monthly principal and interest payments 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. The benefit lowers your interest rate but does not change the amount of your monthly payment. This benefit is suspended during periods of deferment and forbearance. Autopay is not required to receive a loan from SoFi.

Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and Conditions Apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 8/5/24 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

Elfi

Fixed APR 3.69% - 14.22%*
Variable APR 5.00% - 13.97%*
Apply Now
Featured Lender
Elfi
  • Prequalification: Prequalify to estimate your rate without affecting your credit score
  • Online Application Process: Submit online application in minutes
  • Flexible Repayment Options: ELFI offers immediate, interest only, partial payment, and fully deferred repayment options
  • No Fees: No application fees, origination fees, or prepayment penalties
  • Low Rates: Fixed rates from 3.69% to 14.22% and variable rates from 5.00% - 13.97%*
  • Award winning Customer Service: Individually paired Student Loan Advisor to guide you through the application process

*ELFI is a nationwide student loan provider offered by Tennessee based SouthEast Bank. ELFI is designed to assist students financially with receiving their education. Subject to credit approval. See Terms & Conditions. Interest rates current as of 01-01-2025. Variable interest rates may increase after closing but will never exceed 18.00%. Interest rates may also differ from the rates shown above. The term of your loan, financial history, and other factors, including your cosigner’s (if any) financial history can affect the interest rate. For example, a 10-year loan with a fixed rate of 7% would have 120 payments of $11.61 per $1,000 borrowed. Rates are subject to change.

 

But How Much?

Fill out your loan details and calculate what your monthly payment will be.

Private Parent Student Loan FAQs

Is There a Credit Check for a Private Student Loan?

Yes, private parent student loans require a credit check. Lenders check your credit to determine your creditworthiness which also impacts the interest rate you might qualify for. If you’re worried about your loan application impacting your credit score, some lenders allow potential borrowers to pre-qualify for a loan with a soft credit check that will not impact your credit score. If offered, this can be a great way of seeing what interest rates you can expect before applying officially.

What Expenses Can a Parent Student Loan Be Used for?

A parent student loan can be used to cover up to 100% of school-certified expenses including:

  • Tuition and fees
  • Room and board
  • Books and supplies
  • Transportation
  • Laptop

What Information Will I Need to Apply?

To apply for a private parent student loan, you will have to provide information regarding the student, your child’s school, and yourself. A private lender will also need the school to verify the cost of attendance and may need to confirm that the student meets satisfactory academic progress.

Also, be prepared to provide things like proof of income, date of birth and social security number.

How Much Can I Borrow In a Private Parent Student Loan?

You can borrow up to your child’s cost of attendance minus any other financial aid received. You also want to keep in mind that your private student loan lender may have minimum and maximum loan limits. And depending on your creditworthiness and debt-to-income ratio, you may be approved for an amount that is lower than you applied for.

Can I Refinance a Parent Student Loan?

Private parent student loans are eligible for refinancing. You may want to consider refinancing if you believe you would qualify for a better interest rate, or if you have several parent student loans that you would like to roll into one new loan. Another reason many parents refinance is to transfer the loan to their child.

Can I Transfer a Parent Loan to the Student?

A parent student loan can be transferred to the student through refinancing with a private lender. Your student will have to qualify for a refinance loan on their own, but this decision could relieve the parent of the burden of paying back the student loans. If the student does not qualify for a loan by themselves, you may want to look into lenders who offer cosigner release options. If you work with a lender who offers these options, you can then cosign the refinance loan with your student and be released after your student meets the criteria. Some lenders offer cosigner release after the borrower successfully makes 12, 24, 36, or 48 consecutive on-time monthly payments. The primary borrower on the refinance loan (the student) must be the one to initiate cosigner release.

Learn More About Private Student Loans

Best Private Student Loans for May 2025

Parent PLUS Loans vs Private Student Loans

How Does Student Loan Interest Work

How to Find a Good Cosigner

Private Student Loan Myths

Related Content

Private Consolidation of Federal Loans
Edvisors Network
September 16, 2014
When does private consolidation of federal education loans save the borrower money? Learn about the potential benefits and drawbacks for student and parent borrowers.
Read Article
Best Private Student Loans for May 2025
Elaine Rubin
May 01, 2025
Once you’ve exhausted federal aid, private student loans can help fill in gaps in college funding. Learn how to find the best private student loan option for you.
Read Article
What are Federal Parent PLUS Loans and How to Apply?
Elaine Rubin
April 08, 2025
Learn how who is eligible to borrow a Parent PLUS Loan, what to consider, and how to apply.
Read Article
How Does Interest on Student Loans Work?
Elaine Rubin
April 09, 2025
Interest on a student loan is the cost you pay for borrowing money. Federal and private student loans have different interest rates and formulas for calculating interest.
Read Article
The Complete Guide to Federal Undergraduate Student Loans
Elaine Rubin
April 03, 2025
Get your federal undergraduate student loan questions answered with our complete guide!
Read Article
Compare Private Student Loans to PLUS Loans
Edvisors Network
April 16, 2025
Comparing student loan options for can be difficult. This chart will help you understand the differences between private student loans and PLUS Loans, including options for parents.
Read Article
Student Loans Without a Cosigner
Penny Redlin
December 10, 2024
Students who do not have a cosigner are still eligible for student loans. Options include federal student loans, as well as some private lenders if you qualify. Learn more.
Read Article
Student Loan APR: Calculating the Real Costs
Elaine Rubin
August 07, 2024
Federal student loan interest rates are as low as 6.53%, and private loans start around 5.09%. But what does it really cost to borrow? Origination fees and other factors make a big difference on federal and private student loans.
Read Article
Could You Be Saving More?
Subscribe to Edvisors' Student LIFE Newsletter to receive up-to-date financial aid information and advice, explore scholarship opportunities, loan repayment options, and learn expert strategies on how to plan and pay for college.
Newsletter Form
By clicking "Subscribe" I have read and agree to the Edvisors' Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. We strongly encourage you to read our Privacy Policy to understand how we use and share your information.
Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter.
We care about your privacy

This website uses cookies to offer you the most relevant marketing and targeted advertisements which in some states may be considered a sale of your personal information. You may exercise your right to opt out by clicking on deny cookies. Please accept cookies for the optimal experience. You can withdraw or modify your consent for non-essential cookies at any time by visiting Cookie Settings page

This website uses cookies for targeted advertising which in some states may be considered a sale of your personal information. You may opt out by clicking on deny cookies. Please accept cookies for the optimal experience. You can change your consent for such cookies via the Cookie Settings page

Edvisors
  • About Us
  • Official Rules
  • Careers
  • Team
  • Testimonials
Resources
  • Blog
  • Newsletter
  • Tools and Calculators
  • Video Resources
  • Financial Terms Glossary
  • Site Map
Media
  • Edvisors In the News
  • Press
Contact Us
  • Help
  • Ask the Edvisor
  • Student Aid FAQ
  • Directions
Partners
  • Advertise
  • Become an Affiliate
  • Link to Us
Legal
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy
  • Consumer Health Privacy Notice
  • General Website Disclaimer
  • Accessibility Statement
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • Notice at Collection
  • Cookie Settings
  • Your Privacy Choices Your Privacy Choices Icon

Better Business Bureau logo

Edvisors provides expert advice on planning and paying for college. On Edvisors.com easily compare student loan lenders, learn how to apply for financial aid, and discover scholarships. Learn about federal and private student loans for students and parents, how and when to apply to college, and more!

Edvisors (“Edvisors Network, Inc.”) provides independent advertising-supported platforms for consumers to search compare and apply for private student loans. Loan offers from participating lenders that appear on our websites are not affiliated with any college and/or universities, and there are no colleges and/or universities which endorse Edvisors’ products or services. Lender search results do not constitute an official college preferred lender list. Edvisors receives compensation from lenders that appear on this site. This compensation may impact the placement of where lenders appear on this site, for example, the order in which the lenders appear when included in a list. Not all lenders participate in our sites and lenders that do participate may not offer loans to every school.

Edvisors is not a lender and makes no representations or warranties about your eligibility for a particular loan or financial aid. Lenders are solely responsible for any and all credit decisions, loan approval and rates, terms and other costs of the loan offered and may vary based upon the lender you select. Please check with your school or lender directly for information related to your personal eligibility.

Edvisors has endeavored to provide accurate information. However, the results provided by lenders are for illustrative purposes only and accuracy is not guaranteed, as such, Edvisors assumes no responsibility for errors or omission in the information provided.

Copyright © 1998-2025 by Edvisors Network, Inc. All rights reserved.

All other trademarks and service marks displayed on Edvisors Network, Inc. websites are the property of their respective owners.

Edvisors Network, Inc. 350 S. Rampart Blvd, Suite 200, Las Vegas, NV 89145

Copyright © 2025 by Edvisors.com. All rights reserved.

×

Edvisors $2,500 Scholarship


Have you entered the monthly $2,500 scholarship?

 Hammer about to break a piggy bank

Don't break the bank just yet! You could win $2,500.


Enter Now