If you’re looking for student loans as an immigrant or non-U.S. citizen, your options depend on your immigration status and financial profile.
While federal student loans are limited to U.S. citizens and eligible noncitizens, many private lenders offer options for international students, green card holders, and DACA recipients. Here’s how to find the right loan for your situation.
Heads up: In this guide, we use “immigrants” broadly to include international students, non-U.S. citizens, green card holders, and undocumented students. Your eligibility and loan options will vary based on your specific status.
Table of Contents
- Can non-U.S. citizens get student loans?
- Student loans for international students
- Student loans for green card holders
- Student loans for DACA and undocumented students
- Best private student loans for immigrants, international students, and non-U.S. citizens
- Grants and scholarships for immigrants
- How to apply for student loans as a non-U.S. citizen
- Final tips
- FAQ
Can non-U.S. citizens get student loans?
Yes, non-U.S. citizens can get student loans, but eligibility depends on their immigration status. Eligible noncitizens, such as green card holders, refugees, and asylees, may qualify for federal student loans by completing the FAFSA.
If you don’t qualify for federal aid, private student loans are still an option. Most lenders require a creditworthy U.S. citizen or permanent resident cosigner, though some lenders (such as MPOWER) offer loans without one.
In short:
- Eligible noncitizens → federal and private loans
- International students and visa holders → private loans (usually with a cosigner)
- Undocumented students and DACA recipients → private loans and state-based aid
Federal student loans for eligible noncitizens
Here’s a breakdown of federal student loan eligibility based on immigration status:
| If you are… | Eligible for federal loans? |
|---|---|
| A permanent resident or green card holder | ✅ |
| A refugee or asylee | ✅ |
| A person with T nonimmigrant status (human trafficking victim) | ✅ |
| A battered immigrant-qualified alien | ✅ |
| A citizen of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, or Palau | ✅ |
| An undocumented student | ❌ |
| A Dreamer (DACA recipient) | ❌ |
| A non-U.S. citizen with an F-1, J-1, or other temporary visa | ❌ |
Eligible non-citizens complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to apply for the same federal aid as U.S. citizens. Below are the types of federal loans available.
| Loan | What to know |
|---|---|
| Direct Subsidized Loans | Federal government pays the interest while you’re enrolled in school, during the grace period, and during deferment periods; no credit check required |
| Direct Unsubsidized Loans | Federal government does not pay interest; no credit check required |
| Direct PLUS Loans | For graduate study or parents paying for child’s undergraduate study; must be creditworthy |
Student loans for international students
International students, including those on F-1 or J-1 visas, are not eligible for federal student loans. However, you can apply for private student loans through lenders that work with non-U.S. citizens.
Most lenders require:
- A U.S. citizen or permanent resident cosigner
- Enrollment at an eligible U.S. school
- Proof of identity and visa status
Some lenders, like MPOWER Financing, specialize in student loans for international students and don’t require a cosigner or credit history. These loans often come with higher interest rates but provide access to funding when other options aren’t available.
Student loans for green card holders
Green card holders (permanent residents) have the most flexibility when it comes to student loans. You’re considered an eligible noncitizen, which means you can qualify for federal student aid.
You can also apply for private student loans, often with better rates than those available to non-citizen borrowers, since you may already have a U.S. credit history.
Your best strategy:
- Start with federal loans (lower rates, better protections)
- Use private loans to fill any funding gaps
Student loans for DACA and undocumented students
DACA recipients and undocumented students are not eligible for federal student loans, but you may still qualify for several forms of financial aid.
These may include:
- State financial aid programs (available in 19 states and Washington, D.C.)
- Scholarships and grants designed for undocumented students (such as TheDream.US)
- Private student loans (often with a cosigner)
Some lenders accept ITINs instead of Social Security numbers, and a few offer loans without a cosigner. Your school’s financial aid office can help you identify state-specific programs and funding opportunities.
For more details on how Dreamers can access financial aid and student loans, check out our guide to the best student loans for DACA recipients.
Best private student loans for immigrants, international students, and non-U.S. citizens
Whether you’re an international student, a green card holder, a DACA recipient, or an undocumented borrower, these lenders offer flexible options based on your eligibility.
Best student loans for immigrants with no cosigner: MPOWER Financing
Why it’s one of the best
MPOWER Financing promotes financial inclusiveness by extending education loans to international students and DACA recipients. Loans from MPOWER don’t require borrowers to have collateral, a cosigner, or a credit history to qualify.
Students from more than 190 countries can apply, and the lender does not restrict degree programs or fields of study. Loans range from $2,001 to $100,000 and feature fixed interest rates.
MPOWER offers interest rate reductions of up to 1.50% to borrowers who enroll in autopay, make six on-time payments through autopay, and provide proof of graduation and employment.
Eligibility requirements for immigrants
- Must be an undergraduate or graduate student within two years of graduating or about to begin a 1- or 2-year program
- Must attend an approved school in the U.S. or Canada
- Must provide proof of identity and have a valid visa
- Must provide pay stubs or proof of financial support
Loan details
| Rates (APR) | Starts at 12.74% |
| Loan amounts | Up to $100,000 |
| Repayment terms | 150 months; interest-only payments required during school and six months after graduating. Payment starts 45 days after the loan is disbursed. |
| States | All 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Canada |
| Credit score | MPOWER reviews credit scores and history but does not require students to have one |
| Annual income | None; approval-based future earnings |
Best student loan if you have a U.S. cosigner: College Ave
Why it’s one of the best
College Ave is our top-rated student loan lender. It offers loans to international students with a valid U.S. Social Security number. All international students must apply with a qualified cosigner who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
Borrowers can choose from fixed- or variable-rate loans with flexible repayment terms. Loans can be used to fund undergraduate or graduate study, including professional degree programs.
Payments can be deferred as long as the student is enrolled in school. A six-month grace period applies after graduation or if the student falls below half-time enrollment.
- Student loans for undergraduates, graduates, and parents
- You choose your repayment term
- No fees to apply
Eligibility requirements for immigrants
- International students must have a valid U.S. Social Security number
- A cosigner is required for all loans offered to international students
- Cosigners must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents
- Borrowers must be enrolled at an eligible school and be making satisfactory academic progress
Loan details
| Rates (APR) | 3.99% – 17.99% |
| Loan amounts | Up to 100% of your cost of attendance including tuition, fees, books, housing, and other costs. |
| Repayment terms | 5 – 15 years |
| States | All 50 states |
| Credit score | If you have a cosigner, they’ll need a credit score in the mid-600s or higher |
| Annual income | College Avenue doesn’t list an annual income on its website, just an “income review.” |
Best for immigrants seeking large loan amounts: Earnest
Why it’s one of the best
Earnest is an online lender offering various student loans for different borrowers. Most of its student loans can be applied for by international students with a U.S. citizen or permanent resident added as a cosigner.
An online form can be completed in two minutes to confirm whether you prequalify without impacting your credit score. Other benefits include no fees, choosing between four repayment plans, and a nine-month grace period.
- Accepts international students with a U.S. citizen or permanent resident as cosigner
- No origination, disbursement, or late fees
- Check your rate without affecting your credit
Eligibility requirements for immigrants
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident or have a cosigner who is
- Students must be attending or enrolled to attend full-time at an eligible four-year Title IV institution
- Live any state other than Nevada (Washington, D.C. residents are eligible)
- Be the age of majority in the state of residence
Loan details
| Rates (APR) | Starts at 4.17% |
| Loan amounts | Up to 100% cost of attendance |
| Repayment terms | 10 years |
| States | All U.S. states except Nevada and U.S. territories |
| Credit score | At least 650 |
| Annual income | Student or cosigner must make $35,000 minimum |
Best student loan for comparison shopping: Credible
Why it’s one of the best
Credible is an online marketplace that lets you compare prequalified offers from lenders in its network. You can see your estimated rates with one online form at no cost. This is an excellent option for immigrant students as it doesn’t affect your credit score.
It has no restrictions on who can fill out a form, though adding a cosigner will likely increase your chances of being prequalified with at least one lender.
Students can borrow up to 100% of the school’s certified cost of attendance, less any other financial aid received. Fixed-rate and variable-rate loan options are available.
- Compare prequalified offers
- Doesn’t affect your credit score
Eligibility requirements for immigrants
Credible doesn’t have any requirements to use its form
Loan details
| Rates (APR) | 3.79% – 17.99% |
| Loan amounts | Up to cost of attendance |
| Repayment terms | Varies by lender |
| States | All 50 states, Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico |
| Credit score | 640 and above optimal |
| Annual income | Varies by lender |
Best student loan for immigrants in Texas: Brazos
Why it’s one of the best
Everything’s bigger in Texas, except for the interest rates on Brazos student loans. If you’re looking for an affordable private student loan and you’re a Texas resident (or studying at a Texas school), it’s worth adding Brazos to your list of possible lenders.
In addition to low-interest student loans, Brazos offers a wider range of term length options than most other lenders, allowing you to align your monthly payment and overall loan cost with your post-graduation goals. It offers multiple loan types for undergrads, grads, and parents alike.
- Competitive rates
- Many term-length options
- Excellent transparency and openness
Eligibility requirements for immigrants
- Available to United States citizens and Nationals, permanent residents residing in Texas or attending Texas schools.
- Non-citizens with work visas or student visas, and DACA recipients, may apply with an eligible cosigner.
- Cosigners must be United States Citizens, Nationals, or non-citizens with government-issued, non-expired documentation of permanent resident status residing in the United States.
- Cosigners must be residents of Texas, or, if the student is attending a Texas school, a resident of any other state (excluding CT, IA, ME, MD, NJ, NV, OR, PR, and SD).
- Can’t be used at for-profit schools or most community colleges
Loan details
| Fixed rates (APR) | 2.96% – 7.63% |
| Variable rates (APR) | Starting from 4.60% |
| Loan amounts | $1,000* – 100% of school-certified costs |
| Repayment terms | 5, 7, 10, 15, or 20 years |
Grants and scholarships for immigrants
In addition to student loans, immigrant students may qualify for other types of financial aid. Even if you’re not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, several funding options may be available.
Grants
Grants are a funding option every college student should explore because you don’t have to pay back the money you receive.
If you are a green card holder, as a lawful permanent resident, you may be eligible for federal Pell Grants and other types of free federal aid. This includes grants like the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) and federal work-study programs.
Undocumented students and Dreamers are not eligible for federal grants, but you may still qualify for state grants. Some states, like California and Texas, offer financial aid to undocumented students through state-specific applications.
Private scholarships
Regardless of status, immigrant students can explore private scholarships through resources like the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA), which lists grants, fellowships, and scholarships available in each state.
Private scholarships are another avenue to get “free money” for college—meaning you don’t need to pay it back.
Country-specific aid
Some countries provide financial assistance to their citizens studying abroad. Immigrant students may want to contact their country’s embassy, consulate, or government to see whether they offer grants, scholarships, or student loans to help fund a U.S. education.
How to apply for student loans as a non-U.S. citizen
Applying for student loans as an immigrant can feel daunting, especially since your eligibility and documentation requirements vary based on your status. Let’s break it down by loan type and immigration status to make it easier.
As a green card holder or permanent resident
As a green card holder or permanent resident, you’re treated almost the same as a U.S. citizen when it comes to applying for student loans.
To access federal loans
Start by completing the FAFSA to access federal loans. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Proof of permanent residency: Your green card (Form I-551), a passport with a USCIS endorsement, or other official proof.
- Social Security number (SSN): Required to complete the FAFSA.
- Tax information: Your latest federal income tax returns, W-2s, and any other records of money earned.
- Alien Registration number (ARN): You’ll find this on your green card or immigration paperwork.
When filling out the FAFSA, make sure to select “eligible noncitizen” when prompted. Your SSN and ARN will be verified to confirm your eligibility.
To apply for private loans
You can also apply for private loans from banks, credit unions, or online lenders. Requirements vary, but you generally need:
- Proof of residency: Typically your green card.
- Credit history: A credit score or a creditworthy cosigner (often a U.S. citizen or permanent resident).
- Proof of income: Pay stubs or tax documents may be needed.
As a Dreamer or undocumented student
Undocumented students and Dreamers face more challenges when applying for loans, but you can still qualify for some aid. Here is what to prepare:
To access state financial aid
Some states, like California, Texas, and New York, offer financial aid to undocumented students or Dreamers. To apply, you might need:
- Proof of residency: State ID, utility bills, or school records proving you live in the state.
- Tax information: Even if you or your family use an individual taxpayer identification Number (ITIN), include these documents.
- School records: High school transcripts or diplomas from a U.S. school.
To access state aid, you may need to complete a state-specific application (e.g., the California Dream Act Application) instead of the FAFSA.
To apply for private loans
To apply for private loans as an undocumented student, you’ll need:
- Cosigner: Most private lenders require a U.S. citizen or permanent resident cosigner with good credit.
- Proof of residency or status: Some lenders may require proof of your current status (e.g., DACA documents).
- SSN or ITIN: Depending on the lender, either number may be needed.
- Credit history (if available): Even limited credit history can help, but the cosigner’s credit usually plays a bigger role.
Final tips for immigrants seeking student loans
If you’re an immigrant or a Dreamer looking for student loans, you’ll want to consider several points.
- Know your state’s policies. Since financial aid policies for immigrants vary widely by state, start by researching local programs.
- Get help from your school. Your college’s financial aid office can guide you through state-specific options and private lending opportunities.
- Secure a cosigner. You may be able to find a private lender that won’t require a cosigner, but it’s certainly easier to find private loans if you have one—and you’ll likely pay lower interest rates. For some individuals, it may be a challenge to find a family member to cosign for student loans, but it is something you’ll want to start thinking about.
- Comparison shop. As noted, you may be able to find a private lender that won’t require a cosigner, and some lenders specialize in working with immigrants and Dreamers. But finding the best private student loan deals requires time.
- Establish good financial habits. Down the road, you may be able to refinance any student loans you take on and get better terms. That will only happen if you’re living a life where you’re paying bills on time and not taking on more financial responsibilities than you can handle, like being buried in credit card debt.
“Make sure you budget well, make the minimum payment, and potentially make extra payments to help reduce the overall debt. I also suggest staying abreast of any benefits that could be awarded, such as loan forgiveness or employer programs that help pay a portion, if not all, of their student loans.
For example, a teacher working in a specific geographical area with a certain demographic for X amount of years could have their loans forgiven. In addition, some employer retirement plans may elect to contribute to the employee’s retirement plan an amount equal to the employee’s monthly student loan payment.”
—Erin Kinkade, CFP®, ChFC®
FAQ
Do student loans require U.S. citizenship?
No, student loans don’t always require U.S. citizenship. Federal student loans are limited to U.S. citizens and eligible noncitizens, but private lenders may offer loans to international students, DACA recipients, and other non-U.S. citizens.
Can international students get student loans in the U.S.?
Yes, international students can get student loans in the U.S., but only through private lenders. Most require a U.S. citizen or permanent resident cosigner, though some lenders offer no-cosigner options.
Can undocumented students get private student loans?
Yes, undocumented students can get private student loans, but options are limited. Most lenders require a cosigner with strong credit, and some may accept an ITIN instead of a Social Security number.
What happens to my student loan if my immigration status changes?
If your immigration status changes (for instance, you become a U.S. citizen), you’ll still owe student loans. It can’t hurt to update your lender in case you’re now able to get better terms, but in all likelihood, nothing will happen to your student loan.
That said, if you needed more loans for, for instance, graduate school, and you are now a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen, you would now be eligible for federal student loans.
Does immigration status affect my loan terms and repayment options?
A new immigration status won’t affect an undocumented student’s loan terms and repayment options. If you’ve taken out a loan as an undocumented immigrant, and you become an eligible citizen or U.S. citizen, you’ll still owe a private lender the money you borrowed for your higher education.
While anything is possible, it isn’t likely that, with a new immigration status, the interest rate will come down or that the years you have to pay off the loan will now change.
But it would be wise to update your lender and inform them of your new status. A lender can’t discriminate against somebody simply for being an undocumented immigrant. In fact, depending on the situation, that may be illegal. But (complicating matters), lenders can consider that an immigrant might have trouble paying because of where they live.
So with a new immigration status, it would seem feasible that your private lender might offer you additional student loans. You might also find that your new status may make it easier at some point to refinance any student loans to get a better interest rate or smaller monthly payment.
Can I apply for student loans if I am on a visa?
Yes, students on visas can apply for student loans, but their options are limited. International students typically do not qualify for federal student loans, but they can apply for private student loans. Most private lenders require international students to have a U.S. citizen or permanent resident cosigner.
Some institutions and lenders specialize in loans for international students and may have different requirements. It’s essential to research and understand the terms and eligibility criteria before applying.
Are there any loan forgiveness programs available for immigrant students?
Loan forgiveness programs specifically for immigrant students are limited. However, immigrant students who qualify for federal student loans through programs like DACA may be eligible for general loan forgiveness programs, such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or income-driven repayment plan forgiveness.
These programs have specific eligibility criteria and requirements, such as working in a qualifying public service job or making a certain number of payments under an income-driven repayment plan. It’s crucial to review the terms and conditions of each forgiveness program to determine eligibility.
How we selected the best student loans for immigrant students
LendEDU evaluates student loan lenders to help readers find the best student loans. Our latest analysis reviewed 725 data points from 25 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.
About our contributors
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Written by Geoff WilliamsGeoff Williams is a personal finance journalist specializing in all things personal finance, from cash flow to credit cards. An author of several books and a father of two daughters, Geoff especially enjoys exploring how good or bad money choices can affect your life.
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Edited by Kristen Barrett, MATKristen Barrett is a managing editor at LendEDU. She lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, with her wife and their pack of senior rescue dogs. She has edited and written personal finance content since 2015.
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Reviewed by Erin Kinkade, CFP®Erin Kinkade, CFP®, ChFC®, works as a financial planner at AAFMAA Wealth Management & Trust. Erin prepares comprehensive financial plans for military veterans and their families.