How to Apply for a Private Student Loan

How to Apply for a Private Student Loan
If you’re planning to take out a private student loan, you’ll need to fill out a loan application and provide detailed information about your education costs and finances.

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Research

When considering a private student loan, you should start with research. You need to know how private student loans work, what the terms and conditions are, and what you can expect. This research will help you make an informed decision about whether or not a private student loan is right for you.

Compare rates and terms from multiple lenders

When you’re ready to compare rates and terms from multiple lenders, make sure to:
-Get at least three rate quotes. You can use Credible to get up to eight personalized loan quotes from our network of vetted lenders in just two minutes.
-Make sure you understand the difference between variable and fixed-rate loans.
-Look at the APR, not just the interest rate. The APR includes both the interest rate and any fees charged by the lender, so it’s a better way to compare offers.
– Consider both federal and private student loans. You might be able to get a lower interest rate with a federal loan, but private loans often have more flexible repayment options.

Once you’ve compared offers from multiple lenders, you can apply for the loan that’s right for you through Credible. We’ll help you complete the application and send it to your chosen lender – all in one place.

Consider a co-signer

If you have strong credit, you may not need a co-signer. But if you’re like most people, you’ll probably need a little help to get approved.

A co-signer is someone who agrees to sign the loan with you. This person is usually a parent or other family member who will be responsible for the loan if you can’t make the payments.

The good news is that a co-signer can help you get approved for a loan, and they’re not even legally responsible for the debt unless they cosign on the loan itself. So if you default on your loan, your co-signer won’t be on the hook.

Application

To apply for a private student loan, you’ll need to fill out a loan application and provide information about yourself, your schooling, your finances and your cosigner (if you have one). The application process can vary from lender to lender, but most private student loan applications can be completed online.

Gather required documents

To apply for a private student loan, you’ll need to provide some documentation to the lender. This includes your legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, proof of U.S. Citizenship or eligible non-citizen status, contact information, and information about the school you’re attending or plan to attend. You may also need to provide your most recent tax return if you’re applying as a dependent student.

Complete the application

To apply for a private student loan, you will need to complete an application with some basic information about yourself and your finances. Depending on the lender, you may be able to do this online or you may have to fill out a paper form. Some lenders will require that you meet with a loan officer in person to complete the application.

You will need to provide information about yourself, including your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number and driver’s license number. You will also need to provide information about your school, including the name of the school, the type of degree you are pursuing and your expected graduation date.

In addition, you will need to provide financial information, including your income, assets and liabilities. You may also need to provide information about a co-signer if you are applying for a private student loan with a co-signer.

Loan Disbursement

Your loan will be disbursed in two or more installments, depending on the type of loan you have and your school’s policy. The first disbursement will usually be for tuition and fees, and the second will be for living expenses. If you’re receiving a private loan for the first time, you may need to complete entrance counseling and sign a Master Promissory Note (MPN) before your loan can be disbursed.

Review and accept the loan terms

After you submit your loan application, we’ll review it and let you know if you’re approved. If you are, you’ll need to sign and return your promissory note before we can disburse your loan.

The promissory note is a legally binding document that outlines the terms of your loan, including the amount you’ve borrowed, the interest rate, repayment details, and your rights and responsibilities as a borrower. Be sure to read it carefully and ask any questions before you sign. Once you sign and return the promissory note, we can disburse your loan funds.

Receive the loan funds

The loan funds will be disbursed to your school either electronically or by check, depending on your school’s preference. If your school accepts electronic disbursements, the funds will be sent to your school within 2 business days after we receive your signed promissory note and Truth-in-Lending Disclosure. If your school does not accept electronic funds, a check will be mailed to your school within 5 business days after we receive your signed promissory note and Truth-in-Lending Disclosure.