Federal Loans Versus Private Loans

The best thing to do is to get a Federal student loan. Federal loans are readily available to students. Private loans are more expensive to pay back and are not recommended if they can be avoided.

The reason Federal student loans are so available is because graduates of college will usually make a lot more money than other people. This gives the lenders confidence that their money will be repaid.

Some of the most positive aspects of Federal student loans are: lower interest rates, options to postpone payments, longer repayment terms and easier credit requirements. Eligibility for some of these loans is need based, while others are not.

The most common Federal student loans are: Federal Perkins Loans are a low-interest loan available to students who have financial need based on information from their FAFSA. Federal Stafford Loans are available to undergraduate and graduate students.

The loan amounts depend on a student’s year in school and whether they are financially dependent or independent. These loans can be subsidized or unsubsidized. Financial need determines which type a student is eligible for.

Unsubsidized loans are available to all students, regardless of income. Next, the Federal PLUS loans (Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students) are a low-interest education loan for parents.

Each year, parents can borrow up to the cost of attendance, minus other financial aid received such as scholarships, grants, student loans, etc. The PLUS loan is not based on financial need. Applicants must pass a credit check.

Private loans are designed to supplement Federal loan programs and are available from schools, banks, credit unions, and education loan organizations. They are usually used to cover education costs that cannot be met by Federal aid.

Terms for private loans very according to the lender and your credit history. Private loans have credit requirements and you many need a co-signer. Private lenders have control of the money they are loaning to you and may not offer deferment options.

The lender determines the interest rates and fees according to your credit history. Private loan programs may offer the borrower benefits, such as interest rate discounts, rebates and other incentives.

One thing is for sure; all lenders want your business because they make money that way. No matter what type of loan you take out, be conservative and borrow wisely. All loans have to be repaid rather they are Federal or private loans.