What is a student loan? A student loan is borrowed money for post-secondary education, divided into federal and private loans.
Federal Loans vs Private Loans
- Lower Interest Rates / Higher Interest Rates
- More Flexible / Less Flexible
- Direct Subsidized Loans, Direct Unsubsidized Loans, Direct Plus Loans / Loans from Banks, Credit Unions, and Schools
Loan Repayment
Federal Loans have three options for repayment:
- Standard Repayment
- Graduated Repayment
- Income Driven Repayment
Private loan repayment terms vary by lender, so understand them before signing.
Loan Forgiveness
Loan forgiveness or discharge may apply in certain cases, such as public service work or during emergencies like COVID-19 under the CARES Act.
By understanding how student loans work and making smart choices, you can use student loans to invest in your education and build a bright future.