Skip to Main Content

Student Loans

Get tips and advice on student loans and colleges and compare private student loan lenders.

Helpful links

College student studying.
Make sure to choose the right type of student loan for your needs.
Woman studying at a table with an illustrated light green background
Paying for college is a challenge for many students, but student loans can help.
High school students walk around campus
Here’s how to be prepared when it comes time to fill out your FAFSA form.

Reviews & tools

SoFi logo
4.7
Rating: 4.7 stars out of 5
Star Empty Icon
Star Icon
Star Empty Icon
Star Icon
Star Empty Icon
Star Icon
Star Empty Icon
Star Icon
Star Empty Icon
Star Icon
Bankrate Score
Read review
Sallie Mae logo
4.3
Rating: 4.3 stars out of 5
Star Empty Icon
Star Icon
Star Empty Icon
Star Icon
Star Empty Icon
Star Icon
Star Empty Icon
Star Icon
Star Empty Icon
Star Icon
Bankrate Score
Read review

Experts in all things finance

Our expert reporters and editors bring the news and analysis you need—backed by data and firsthand experience.

About Bankrate
Rebecca Betterton headshot

Rebecca Betterton Arrow Right Icon

Certified Financial Education Instructor℠

Denny Ceizyk headshot

Denny Ceizyk Arrow Right Icon

Senior Loans Writer

Lauren Nowacki headshot

Lauren Nowacki Arrow Right Icon

Senior Loans Writer

The latest

Multi-ethnic group of students in front of College University entrance.
Average student loan debt amounts hit Gen Z the hardest.
Mother walks a child to first day of school
A 529 plan doesn’t fit everyone. Here are some alternatives.
High school student fills out paperwork at a table
Previously known as the FAFSA4caster, this tool can be an effective research tool.
Close-up of woman's face at college graduation
Borrowers nearing graduation should be proactive about their student loan repayment.
Medical school students discuss schoolwork
Explore free options, loans and reduced-tuition programs.
High school student fills out form
Adding schools ensures that you receive financial aid for college.
Older woman smiles at high school student
You’ll be considered independent, which is usually good news for financial aid.
Mother and daughter look at a laptop
You can be eligible for financial aid regardless of your parents’ citizenship.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information
Wall Street Journal
Usa Today
New York Times
Cnn
Bloomberg
Abc