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Student Loans

Learn more about how student loans work & best practices for managing them, see our top picks for new student loans & student loan refinancing, and find reviews of the top lenders in the industry.

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Types of student loans

The federal government, state agencies, and private lenders offer student loans to cover education costs. These loans can be made for specific borrowers to accommodate unique financing needs. With so many types of student loans available, it’s essential to focus on lenders that offer the loan you need.

Student loan uses

Most student loans are disbursed to your school, which then send leftover funds to you. Use this extra money to pay for other education expenses.

Student loan reviews

If you’re considering several companies for your student loan needs, giving each a proper review before deciding which to apply with is essential. Check out our reviews to see which company offers what you need.

All-in-one guides

The following resources are excellent choices for comprehensive guides to specific topics.

Student loan data, statistics, and calculators

Because the student loan industry has changed in recent years, it’s critical to stay informed about general trends and statistics. This information can help you make informed decisions and better manage your student loans.

Latest on student loans:

How to Pay Off $200K Student Loans: 7 Strategies for High-Balance Borrowers

Pursuing a professional degree can be a rewarding path—but it often comes with a staggering...

Are Student Loans Installment or Revolving Credit?

Understanding whether a student loan is an installment or revolving loan will give you insights...

Is Parent Loan Forgiveness Possible? Your Guide to PSLF and More

Yes, parent student loans can be forgiven, but only under specific circumstances. Federal Parent PLUS...

Fresh Start Program for Student Loans [Ended — What to Do Now]

Editor’s note: The Fresh Start Program for federal student loans ended on October 2, 2024....

How to Calculate Your Minimum Student Loan Payment

When repaying your student loans, the minimum payment is the lowest amount you can pay...

Do Deferred Student Loans Affect Your Credit Score?

Deferment gives you a temporary reprieve from student loan payments. Your loans are usually automatically...

Student Loan Interest Rates by Year

If you’re a student or parent researching how student loan interest rates have changed, you’re likely preparing to take out a loan or...

9 Reasons Your Student Loan Payment Increased (and What to Do About It)

Noticed your student loan payment went up and not sure why? You’re not alone. A...

Can You Make Principal-Only Payments on Student Loans?

When you make minimum monthly payments on your student loans, a portion goes toward the...

How Student Loans Affect Your Retirement

Retirement may be years away, but it’s never too soon to start planning for it. If you borrowed money to pay for college...