Best Lenders to Refinance International Student Loans in 2025

Refinancing international student loans can lower your interest rate and reduce monthly payments—but as an international borrower, your options may be limited. Most lenders require U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, a strong credit history, or a creditworthy cosigner.

If you don’t meet these requirements, alternatives, like lenders specializing in international student loans or building U.S. credit first, may be necessary. Below, we’ll explain what you need to qualify, how to compare lenders, and which lenders best serve international students refinancing their loans.

5 options for refinancing international student loans

We’ve reviewed the eligibility requirements of more than 25 lenders to identify the top student loan refinance lenders. Here are five worth considering for international students looking to refinance student loans.

SoFi

Best Online Lender

5.0 _/5

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Why it’s one of the best

SoFi offers competitive refinancing rates for international students—but only if you meet strict eligibility criteria. You must have a creditworthy U.S. cosigner or hold a qualifying non-permanent resident visa (F-1, J-1, H-1B, E-2, O-1, or TN). If you don’t have a cosigner, you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

Despite these hurdles, SoFi offers low rates, no fees, and membership perks, such as career services, which could help with job placement in the U.S. after graduation.

• Competitive rates
• Visa holders may qualify without a cosigner
• Member perks include career services

• Requires a U.S. cosigner if you’re not on an approved visa
• No options for students without a U.S. credit history

Refinance terms

Fixed rate (APR)	5.24% – 9.99% w/ autopay
Variable rate (APR)	6.24% – 9.99% w/ autopay
Loan amounts	$1,000 – 100% of outstanding balance
Repayment terms	5, 7, 10, 15, or 20 years

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Credible

Best Marketplace

4.8 _/5

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Why it’s one of the best

Credible is a marketplace rather than a direct lender, so international students can compare offers from multiple lenders in one place. However, eligibility varies by lender, meaning some may require a U.S. cosigner, citizenship, or specific visa types.

Before applying, be sure to check each lender’s international student policies. While Credible makes comparison shopping easy, you may still need a cosigner or U.S. credit history to qualify for the best rates.

• Compare offers from multiple lenders
• Check rates without impacting your credit score
• Streamlined application process

• Lender requirements vary (some may require U.S. residency or a cosigner)
• Not all lenders on the platform offer international student refinancing

Refinance terms

Rates (APR)	4.75% – 14.52%
Loan amounts	Vary by lender
Repayment terms	Vary by lender

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Earnest

Best Skip-a-Payment Benefit

4.6 _/5

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Why it’s one of the best

Earnest is a great choice for borrowers who already have strong U.S. credit or a cosigner. Unlike some lenders, Earnest lets borrowers adjust their payment date, choose between monthly or biweekly payments, and even skip one payment per year.

However, international students must have a U.S. citizen or permanent resident cosigner. If you don’t meet that requirement, this lender won’t work for you.

• Flexible repayment options
• No fees, including prepayment penalties
• Allows borrowers to skip one payment per year

• Requires a U.S. citizen or permanent resident cosigner
• Not available to borrowers on visas

Refinance terms

Rates (APR)	5.19% to 9.74%
Loan amounts	$5,000 – $500,000
Repayment terms	5 – 20 years

Citizens Bank

4.1 _/5

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Why it’s one of the best

Citizens Bank is a strong option for international students who have a creditworthy U.S. citizen or permanent resident cosigner. Unlike lenders that require you to establish a U.S. credit history, Citizens focuses on your cosigner’s qualifications—making it a viable choice for borrowers who might not yet have a credit footprint in the U.S.

With competitive interest rates and flexible repayment options, Citizens Bank allows international students to refinance both private and federal student loans, helping them lower their monthly payments or reduce their interest rate. However, without a U.S. cosigner, you won’t qualify, so it’s not the best fit for borrowers who lack this support.

• Available to international students with a U.S. cosigner
• Refinance federal and private student loans
• Autopay discount available

• A U.S. cosigner is required
• No refinancing available without a permanent U.S. resident cosigner

Refinance terms

Rates (APR)	6.49% – 12.41%
Loan amounts	$10,000 – $500,000
Repayment terms	5 – 20 years

MPOWER

Best International Focus

3.8 _/5

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Why it’s one of the best

MPOWER is designed specifically for international students and does not require a cosigner, making it one of the few options available if you don’t have a U.S. credit history. Instead of relying on credit scores, MPOWER considers your employment history, future earning potential, and visa status.

However, MPOWER’s interest rates tend to be higher than those of lenders requiring cosigners. You must also live in the U.S. and be employed full-time to qualify.

• No cosigner required
• Helps build U.S. credit history
• Works with international students on valid visas, including DACA, refugee, and asylum seekers

• Higher interest rates than lenders requiring cosigners
• Must have full-time employment in the U.S.

Refinance terms

Rates (APR)	13.98% – 17.08%
Loan amounts	$2,001 – $100,000
Repayment terms	10 years

How to refinance as an international student 

Refinancing student loans is straightforward, but you might need to complete extra steps as an international student. Here’s how it works.

1. Find the right lender: Many lenders require that borrowers are U.S. citizens or legal residents, which makes it challenging for international students to refinance loans. As you refinance international student loans, consider lenders from the list above that work with international students. 
2. Check your credit score: Lenders check your credit score to determine loan eligibility. As an international student, you might not have a U.S. credit score. Check whether you have a credit report at AnnualCreditReport. If you don’t have one, consider taking steps to build credit, such as applying for a secured credit card, before applying.
3. Gather your documentation: You typically need proof of your visa status and proof of identification to apply for a loan as an international student. Ensure you have a copy of those official documents before completing the application. 
4. Find a cosigner: Some lenders require that international applicants have a cosigner who is a U.S. citizen or resident. If you’re applying with a lender with that requirement, talk with your cosigner before applying. 
5. Complete the application: Fill out the loan application to refinance your student loans. Complete the questions and provide the required documentation. 
6. Compare rates and terms: If you apply with multiple lenders, compare rates and terms to find the best deal. Lower interest rates and minimal fees can help you save money as you repay your loan. 
7. Finalize the loan: Once you select the loan, finalize the application by signing the paperwork. You can sign electronically with most lenders. 
8. Continue making payments: While you wait for your loan to finalize, continue making payments to your current lender to avoid late fees and other penalties. 

How to qualify for international student loan refinancing

Qualifying for student loan refinancing as an international student comes with extra challenges, but meeting these crucial requirements can improve your chances:

• Find a lender: Not all lenders refinance international student loans. Choose one that works with non-U.S. citizens and meets your needs.
• Verify your visa status: Most lenders require proof of a valid visa (e.g., J-1, H-1B, E-2) and a U.S. bank account. Have these documents ready.
• Get a cosigner (if required): Some lenders require a U.S. citizen or permanent resident as a cosigner. Consider asking a trusted friend or family member.
• Build your credit: If you don’t have a U.S. credit history, improve your chances by getting a secured credit card, paying rent through credit-reporting services, or becoming an authorized user on someone else’s credit card.

Meeting these requirements can help you secure better rates and terms when refinancing your international student loan.

If the option is available, I recommend applying for a credit card with a small limit—for example, $500—and using the card for basic, necessary expenses. Then pay off the balance in full each month.

If you’re renting a home or apartment, take advantage of opportunities to have rent payments reflected on your credit report.

I also recommend being responsible with purchases and understanding the U.S. financial system regarding credit and borrowing, especially if it’s much different from what you’re accustomed to.

What to do if you’re denied an international student loan refinance

If your application is denied, don’t panic. The reason for denial determines your next steps. Here’s how to address common issues and improve your chances of approval:

1. If your credit history is too limited or weak

• Build your U.S. credit score: Get a secured credit card, pay bills on time, or become an authorized user on a trusted person’s credit card.
• Wait before reapplying: If your credit is improving, hold off and reapply once you have a stronger score.

2. If you don’t have a cosigner (and the lender requires one)

• Find a willing cosigner: A U.S. citizen or permanent resident with good credit can improve your approval odds. Consider asking a relative, close friend, or employer.
• Choose a lender that doesn’t require a cosigner: Some lenders, including MPOWER, cater to international students without a cosigner.

3. If your income is too low

• Increase your income: Consider part-time work (if permitted by your visa) or negotiate a raise at your current job.
• Reduce your debt-to-income ratio (DTI): Pay down other debts to improve your financial profile.

4. If your visa status is uncertain

• Ensure you meet lender requirements: Some lenders require a specific visa type or work authorization period. Verify your eligibility before applying.
• Apply with a lender that accepts your visa type: If your current lender doesn’t work with your visa status, explore other options.

5. If you were denied for another reason

• Ask the lender why: Many lenders provide reasons for denial. Use this information to improve your application.
• Compare other lenders: Different lenders have different requirements. If one rejects you, another may approve you.

If refinancing isn’t an option right now, focus on strengthening your financial profile and try again later. Meanwhile, look for other ways to lower payments, such as negotiating a hardship plan with your current lender.

FAQ 

How can refinancing my international student loan affect my interest rate?

Refinancing your international student loan could lower your interest rate, especially if your financial situation has improved since you first took out a loan.

If you’ve built a solid credit history in the U.S., secured stable employment, or improved your income, you may qualify for a lower rate through refinancing. Lower interest rates can reduce the overall cost of the loan and decrease monthly payments. However, comparing offers from various lenders is essential to ensure you’re getting the best rate possible for your circumstances.

What happens to your refinanced student loan if you move out of the United States?

If you move out of the U.S. after refinancing your student loan, you must still repay the loan according to the agreed terms. The terms don’t change based on your geographic location.

However, depending on the lender’s policies and international money transfer fees, making payments from abroad may become more challenging. Make sure you communicate with your lender about any relocation plans and discuss potential implications or arrangements for managing your loan payments from abroad.

Who can cosign a refinance international student loan?

A cosigner for a refinance international student loan is a creditworthy individual who agrees to share the responsibility of the loan. In most cases, the cosigner is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a strong credit history. This could be a family member, friend, or acquaintance.

The cosigner’s creditworthiness can be critical in helping the borrower qualify for refinancing, especially if the borrower has a limited credit history in the U.S.

Can I release a cosigner after refinancing?

Yes, in many cases, you can release a cosigner when refinancing an international student loan, but it depends on the lender’s policies.

Generally, cosigner release becomes an option after the primary borrower demonstrates financial reliability over a specific period. This often involves making a series of on-time payments and meeting certain credit and income criteria.

Review the lender’s terms regarding cosigner release and understand the requirements you must meet before applying if this is an important factor in your decision.

How we selected the best options to refinance international student loans

LendEDU evaluates student loan companies to help readers find the best options for refinancing student loans. Our latest analysis reviewed 696 data points from 24 lenders and financial institutions, with 29 data points collected from each.

This information is gathered from company websites, online applications, public disclosures, customer reviews, and direct communication with company representatives. These star ratings help us determine which companies are best for different situations. We don’t believe two companies can be the best for the same purpose, so we only show each best-for designation once.

Recap of lenders to refinance international student loans