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With average annual tuition and fees reaching $11,260 for in-state students at public four-year colleges and $41,540 for private universities, covering college expenses can feel overwhelming. Scholarships for high school juniors may be just what you need to make college more affordable.

Whether you’re aiming for a four-year university or a community college, there are plenty of scholarships designed specifically for high school juniors in the class of 2026. Unlike student loans, scholarships are free money for college and don’t need to be paid back.

Keep reading to learn about some of the best scholarships available for high school juniors and how they can help you take that next step toward your college career.

How Do I Qualify for High School Junior Scholarships?

To qualify for scholarships as a high school junior, start by maintaining strong academic performance, since many scholarships are merit-based and require a minimum GPA.

Research scholarships that match your interests, background, or intended college major. You should also try to participate in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and community service, which are often key factors for many scholarship applications.

Some scholarships may also consider financial need, requiring you to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Additionally, sign up and prepare for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, because scores can be a qualifying factor for many awards. Keep deadlines in mind and apply early.

Recommended: What Types of Scholarships Are There?

How to Find Scholarships for High School Juniors

While you’re completing your junior year, there are plenty of resources to help you find scholarships, including:

•   The financial aid office at the college or career school you’re considering

•   Organizations and professional groups connected to your interests

•   Federal agencies that offer financial aid

•   Free scholarship search tools, like the Scholarship Search Tool by SoFi

•   Local organizations, such as libraries, businesses, nonprofits, and other community groups

It’s important to understand that not all scholarship opportunities are legitimate. For example, it’s probably a red flag if someone asks you to pay to apply or find scholarships. Remember that you should never have to pay to enter a scholarship, so it’s best to avoid those kinds of offers.

What Is the Easiest Scholarship to Get in High School?

While some scholarships require a good amount of work, like writing essays or gathering recommendation letters, others are much easier to apply for. For example, no-essay scholarships are often the easiest to apply for because they typically have minimal requirements, such as being a certain age.

There are two main types of no-essay scholarships: sweepstakes and video scholarships. With sweepstakes scholarships, you don’t typically need to submit grades, test scores, or essays. Instead, you might just need to fill out a short form, provide some basic information about yourself, or answer a few questions.

Keep in mind that since these scholarships are easier to apply for, there’s often more competition, which can lower your chances of an award. Even though junior year is busy, it’s a good idea to apply to as many as you can to boost your chances of receiving a no-essay scholarship.

On the other hand, video scholarships require you to create something, like a five-minute video explaining why you deserve an award. For some, this may be easier than writing an essay and gives you a different way to showcase your strengths.

Recommended: Enter SoFi’s Scholarship Giveaway for $2,500

Best Scholarships for High School Juniors

Here are some of the best scholarships for high school juniors to apply for in 2025 and 2026:

1. United States Senate Youth Program

Award: $10,000

The United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) is open to high school juniors and seniors interested in a career in public service. Applicants must demonstrate leadership skills by serving in an elected or appointed role, such as student government, education, public affairs, or community service.

2. G2 Overachievers Student Grant

Award: $15,000

The G2 Overachievers Student Grant is for middle and high school honor roll students between the ages of 13 and 19. To apply, you must submit a 1,000 to 2,000 word handwritten essay about how you (or the person you’re nominating) are making a difference in your community and deserve to be recognized for it.

3. The Christophers High School Poster Contest

Award: $1,000

U.S. high school students, from freshmen to seniors, can enter the Christophers 35th Annual Poster Contest. To apply, simply create a poster featuring the phrase “You can make a difference” and illustrate how one person can positively impact the world.

4. Create a Greeting Card Scholarship Contest

Award: $10,000

The Create-a-Greeting Card Scholarship Contest is open to all U.S. high school and college students that are 14 years and older. To enter, simply create an original greeting card design. Your design can be a Christmas card, holiday card, birthday card, or an all-occasion greeting card.

5. Voice of Democracy Scholarship Competition

Award: $35,000

High school students can win the Voice of Democracy award by submitting a three- to five-minute audio essay on the topic “Is America Today What Our Forefathers Imagined?” The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) also offers other scholarships, with awards ranging from $1,000 to $21,000.

6. We the Future Contest

Award: $2,000 – $5,000

High school students starting in freshman year can win the We the Future Contest by creating a 500-700 word essay, song, STEM project, short film, social media video, or public service announcement (PSA) on a Constitution-related topic.

7. Carson Scholars Fund

Award: $1,000

The Carson Scholars Fund is for students in grades four through 11 who do well in school and are committed to making a difference in their communities. To apply, you need a GPA of at least 3.75 and must show a strong commitment to community service.

Carson Scholars Fund

8. International Public Policy Forum (IPPF)

Award: $10,000

The Brewer Foundation and New York University (NYU) offer the International Public Policy Forum award to teams of at least three students from the same school. As a team, you’ll write a 3,000-word essay on “Resolved: Equitable access to pharmaceuticals should be prioritized over protecting intellectual property rights.” The top 64 teams will move to a written round, and the top eight teams will compete in a final oral debate.

Recommended: How to Pay for College

The Takeaway

Kicking off your scholarship applications during junior year gives you a head start and helps you find more options to pay for college. The more scholarship money you earn, the less you’ll need to pay in tuition and other expenses.

In addition to scholarships, students can pay for college with cash savings, grants, federal student loans, and private student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

Should you start applying for scholarships as a junior?

Even though your junior year is a good time to apply for scholarships, you don’t need to wait until then. You can start anytime in high school, which gives you a jumpstart and can open up more scholarship opportunities.

What is the youngest age you can get a scholarship?

You might be able to find scholarship opportunities for kids as young as the age of four. While this may seem a tad early, starting as soon as possible gives you more time to plan for future college costs.

What are the most sought after college scholarships?

Some of the most sought-after scholarships include The Gates Scholarship and the Coca-Cola Scholars Program. However, these popular scholarships are usually available only to high school seniors and can be pretty competitive. So, to increase your chances of winning, it’s a good idea to apply for a mix of different scholarships.

About the author

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy is a seasoned personal finance writer with 15 years of experience simplifying complex concepts for individuals seeking financial security. Her expertise has shined through in well-known publications like Rolling Stone, Forbes, SmartAsset, and Money Talks News. Read full bio.

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Home siding replacement costs typically run around $11,400, though that’s just a ballpark figure. The amount you could pay will depend on factors such as home size, materials, location, and project timing.

While house siding replacement isn’t a cheap solution, it can be a transformative one. After all, as a homeowner, you know that the appearance of your home reflects your style, pride, and investment.

Before you dive headfirst into this exciting project, it’s important to understand house siding replacement costs so you can proceed with confidence.

What Impacts House Siding Replacement Costs?

Numerous factors influence the cost of replacing house siding, including the size and shape of your house. Here are some important ones to keep in mind.

Home Size

Your home size impacts the cost of your project because a larger house requires more siding. The following is an estimate of potential siding costs for different square footage. Remember, if you live in a two-story home, you’ll add 15% to 30% of the total cost. The additional floor means more hours and materials are needed to finish the job.

House Shape

A home with a traditional or simple shape tends to incur lower siding costs. For example, a conventional, square house will likely be less expensive than an H-shaped home when installing siding.

Type of Materials

The material you select for your siding is crucial, and each type has its pros and cons. For example, although bricks cost more than vinyl, they are more durable. So, the higher upfront cost means longevity, while vinyl siding means you could face another siding repair job in several years.

Home Design

Whether your home has multiple stories or gables, for example, the overall design could impact how much you pay to replace the siding. That’s because any differences from a conventional home build could require more time and modified cuts of siding.

Removal of Old Siding

Removing old siding is a possibility when installing new siding. For example, your contractor may want to eliminate pests or rotting material underneath the original siding. On the other hand, if the current siding is in decent condition and you want to cut costs, you may decide to install the new material over the old material.

Condition of Old Siding

Your old siding can increase the project cost if it requires more work to remove. On the other hand, uncomplicated siding removal will help streamline the project.

Time of Year

Generally, homeowners hire contractors during warmer weather. However, some contractors might have deals for homeowners who want work done outside the high season. So, timing your project wisely could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Location

As with other exterior home remodeling projects, location plays a role in how expensive it is to replace your house siding. For instance, this list demonstrates the differences across the country:

Siding Installation Cost: Labor

Labor is an unavoidable cost when replacing house siding. The materials, complexity of the job, and your region will affect labor costs. Typically, you’ll pay between $1 and $15 per square foot, with $4 per square foot being the most common rate. So, siding installation costs for labor for a 1,500-square-foot house will likely cost about $6,000.

Permit Costs

Your municipality may also require you to obtain a permit from your county and/or state before you begin work on replacing your house siding. Building permits cost between $150 and $3,000, depending on your location and project scope. However, in some regions, permits aren’t mandatory for minor projects, so ask your county or a contractor before applying for one.

Siding Costs by Type

The type of siding is another major influence on your total project cost. Here’s a breakdown of common materials and their average price:

Vinyl

Replacing house siding with vinyl costs $2 to $13 per square foot. Plus, it isn’t challenging to install, and provides dozens of color options. However, it may dent easily and is more susceptible to weather damage than other types. For example, storms and extreme temperatures can make vinyl deteriorate quickly. You can expect vinyl siding to last between 20 and 40 years.

Wood

Wood costs $1 to $15 per square foot, making it an affordable siding option. While it’s vulnerable to pests, water, and rot, its unique aesthetic can be desirable to homeowners. Plus, certain types of wood, such as cedar, can have a higher resistance to damage. Remember, wood siding requires paint jobs and chemical treatments every five years or so to prevent degradation. Wood siding that’s been well cared for can last 20 to 40 years.

Engineered Wood

Costing between $1 and $6 per square foot, engineered wood can be an attractive choice for those on a budget. As the name implies, the manufacturer pretreats the wood to enhance its durability. Mass production methods drive down the cost, and engineered wood needs paint less frequently than conventional wood.

In addition, DIYers often use this material because of its straightforward installation. However, faulty installation can result in moisture damage, so it may be best to hire a contractor. With the right installation technique and proper care, engineered wood lasts between 20 and 40 years.

Aluminum

Another low-cost option, aluminum siding costs $3 to $6 per square foot. This material helps with temperature control and is resistant to temperature changes, rust, and pests. However, it can produce loud sounds during storms and can develop scrapes and discoloration. As with the previous options, aluminum siding lasts 20 to 40 years.

Fiber Cement

Although you could mistake this material’s appearance for wood, fiber cement tends to stand up better to insects and the elements. It needs less care and painting than wood as well. However, because it is made of cement bound by cellulose fibers, its weight can be a drawback. The siding’s price ranges from $5 to $14 per square foot and will last about 50 years.

Brick

When you change the siding on a house to brick siding, it costs $10 to $20 per square foot and provides a solid, traditional look. While heavier than other materials, brick is touted for its resilience and longevity. Brick siding will last 100 years or more.

Stone

Usually the most expensive option, stone siding costs $7 to $30 per square foot. It provides a dignified, stately aesthetic and ultimate sturdiness. Unlike wood or vinyl, stone is extremely slow to deteriorate and is impervious to rot and pests. Stone siding lasts at least 100 years.

Stone Veneer

If you like stone but not its cost, stone veneer may offer you the happy medium. It costs $5 to $11 per square foot and looks like natural stone, although it’s a mix of cement, aggregates (like gravel or concrete), and iron molecules for coloring. Stone veneer is an excellent insulating material and lasts between 20 and 75 years.

DIY Home Siding Replacement Cost

Installing new siding by yourself may not be the most suitable DIY endeavor. For starters, there’s the safety of you and your home to consider. Plus, the weight and cumbersome nature of siding make it challenging to handle. And improper installation can result in substantial water damage, insulation problems, or pest infestations.

That said, if you have the expertise, installing siding is feasible, with vinyl being the most doable. Having the necessary tools and securing a construction permit without a contractor’s help can reduce labor costs by $1 to $3 per square foot.

Professional House Siding Replacement Cost

A professional house siding replacement job can cost $2 to $50 per square foot, depending on the materials and the other factors listed above. However, a skilled contractor can provide peace of mind through quality work, not to mention saving you hours sweating in the sun while you install material.

How to Reduce the Cost of Home Siding Replacement

Going with a professional for a house siding replacement project doesn’t have to mean burying yourself in debt. Here’s how to decrease the costs of your project without sacrificing quality:

Research and Compare Quotes from Multiple Contractors

A price comparison between contractors can help you get the best deal. When you’re searching for contractors for your project, referrals are an excellent place to begin. Ask neighbors, family, and friends who recently had siding repairs or replacements for their recommendations. There’s a good chance you’ll find plenty of siding installers in your area, and referrals will help you narrow down your choices.

As you research contractors, it’s wise to reach out to at least three different companies to gather price estimates. Then, request a detailed quote to gauge the pricing options available in your area. When comparing prices, remember that not all contractors solely focus on siding. Some general contractors and handypersons offer siding installation as part of their broader range of services.

To ensure a fair comparison, contact at least two companies specializing in siding and one general contractor. Keep in mind that while a general contractor may be versatile, they may not have the same level of expertise and experience as a dedicated siding professional.

Negotiate with Contractors

You can haggle with contractors to get a discount. For example, you might decide to delay your project until late autumn, when contractors have more gaps in their schedules. Likewise, you can ask for lower prices for tearing off the existing siding yourself or getting the required permit on your own. These tactics could help you shave hundreds off your final bill.

Consider Financing Options

If affordability is keeping you from replacing siding, financing the project can help you get started sooner instead of later. For example, a personal loan is a straightforward option that can get the necessary money in your account within a few days.

In addition, you could leverage your home equity to obtain a home equity loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC). These options turn your equity into cash, meaning they’re helpful for homeowners who have paid off a significant amount of their mortgage. Remember, financing means paying the loan plus interest every month, so it’s best to ensure your budget has the space before you borrow.

What to Consider Prior to Replacing House Siding

Because changing the siding on the house is an investment, you must consider a few things before starting your project. Here’s what to keep top of mind before shopping for siding materials or ripping off the old siding.

HOA Rules

Read your HOA covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) to ensure you’re correctly following guidelines on allowed siding materials, colors, and more. In addition, you may need to apply for preapproval from your HOA board before starting the project.

Likewise, your HOA may require you to hire a licensed and insured contractor to perform the work. Remember, not every contractor has the same licensure, insurance, and certifications, so it’s best to shop around. Plus, you’ll need to communicate your HOA’s rules and standards to the contractor so they understand the project’s parameters. It’s also crucial to obtain permits from your municipality. Your HOA might also require notification when the project is finished.

Siding Quality

Various siding materials have different durability and appearance, so it’s best to ask yourself what kind of siding you want. Siding quality will also affect pricing and maintenance.

Siding Colors

Next, it’s time for the fun part: choosing a color. While you may have an initial preference, it’s beneficial to follow these tips and steps:

•  Determine your siding type. Different types of siding may have limitations on color options. For example, brick and wood sidings offer fewer choices, whereas vinyl sidings offer endless possibilities.

•  Consider your home’s style. Your home’s architectural style can guide you in selecting the most suitable siding colors. For instance, white, gray, and subtle colors complement colonial homes, while bold colors and textures work well with Victorian-style homes.

•  Evaluate the front door, windows, and roof. Choose a siding color that harmonizes with other exterior elements. You can contrast a dark front door or roof with lighter-colored siding. And remember that you can always replace your front door affordably to match your new siding.

•  Explore neighboring homes. Walk around your neighborhood to gather inspiration and ideas from other homes. Look for houses that you admire and share a similar style and construction. Additionally, if homes are for sale nearby, check their values online to see if the siding color has contributed to a higher resale value.

Maintenance

To ensure the longevity of your new siding and prevent potential damage to your home, be sure to provide proper care and maintenance. Regular cleaning and inspections will help you identify any areas that require attention.

Remember, various siding types have specific maintenance and cleaning requirements. Therefore, becoming an expert in the siding type of your choice can add years to its life. Simple tasks like caulking and painting can make a significant difference in high-moisture climates. By addressing these maintenance tasks proactively, you can save hundreds of dollars in costly structural repairs.

Energy Efficiency

Siding guards your home against adverse weather, such as strong winds and extreme heat, can influence your home’s energy usage. In addition, energy-efficient siding offers superior insulation to traditional siding, reducing energy consumption for temperature control. It does so by including insulation (like spray foam or foam board) beneath your chosen siding material. In contrast, traditional siding often lacks this feature.

While uninsulated siding may be more affordable initially, the long-term savings on monthly utility bills through insulation can offset the project cost. Additionally, opting for energy-efficient siding increases your home’s value if you sell it.

To gauge the return on investment (ROI) for energy-efficient siding, consult a siding contractor and inquire about the typical energy bill savings experienced by homeowners in your area after installing insulated siding. Depending on your location, your savings could be 20% off your previous energy bill.

The Takeaway

Several factors influence the cost of house siding replacement, including the size and shape of the house, the type of siding materials chosen, the condition of the old siding, and the house’s location. Other factors, such as the time of year and the need for permits, may also affect the expenses. Researching and comparing quotes from multiple contractors, negotiating with contractors, considering financing options, and planning may help reduce the cost of a siding replacement project without compromising quality.

If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and get some home repairs or renovations done, see what a SoFi personal loan can offer. With a SoFi Home Improvement Loan, you can borrow between $5k to $100K as an unsecured personal loan, meaning you don’t use your home as collateral and no appraisal is required. Our rates are competitive, and the whole process is easy and speedy.

FAQ

How long does it take to replace the siding on a house?

The time it takes to replace siding on a house usually takes about 10 to 14 days. However, the exact time depends on various factors, such as the home’s size and the siding material.

What are the benefits of replacing siding on a house?

Replacing house siding can improve insulation and temperature control, protect against pests, and beautify the house’s appearance. As a result, replacing siding can often increase a home’s value.

Can I replace the siding on my house myself, or do I need a professional?

A DIY siding replacement project eliminates labor fees ranging from $40 to $90 per hour, which leaves materials as the sole expense. However, DIY can be challenging if you lack experience. Hiring a professional siding contractor ensures the job is done correctly, efficiently, and with access to better material prices, along with their expertise and knowledge of potential risks.

How do I choose the right type of siding for my home?

It’s best to choose siding for your home according to your priorities. For example, your budget, preferred materials, and insulation concerns will influence the type of siding for your project.

Are there any tax credits or incentives for replacing house siding?

Installing energy-efficient insulation with your siding can make you eligible for the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit. The credit is up to 30% of the project cost.

About the author

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy is a seasoned personal finance writer with 15 years of experience simplifying complex concepts for individuals seeking financial security. Her expertise has shined through in well-known publications like Rolling Stone, Forbes, SmartAsset, and Money Talks News. Read full bio.

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Refinancing your student loans can be an excellent way to save money on interest, lower your monthly payment, or consolidate student loan debt. However, refinancing with a private lender makes it so you lose access to federal perks, such as federal loan forgiveness programs. This is true whether you choose to refinance with or without a cosigner.

A cosigner is someone who takes on loan repayment responsibility if the primary borrower falls behind on payments. If you want to refinance without a cosigner, you must meet the loan criteria on your own. Without a cosigner, you will also be 100% responsible for the loan. If you default on payments, it could impact your credit.

If refinancing seems like a reasonable course of action to make your student loans more manageable, it’s best to understand what it looks like to refinance student loans without a cosigner. Here’s what you need to know.

What Does It Mean to Refinance Student Loans Without a Cosigner?

Refinancing your student loans means you take out another loan with a refinance lender to pay off your outstanding student debt balance. You then make monthly payments to the new refinance lender. The goal of refinancing is to save money by qualifying for a lower interest rate and more favorable terms. Be aware, though, that refinancing disqualifies you from federal student loan forgiveness programs.

Like other types of credit, you can apply for a student loan refinance with a cosigner. Borrowers who can’t qualify independently for credit typically apply with a cosigner who can boost their application odds and help them qualify for the most competitive rates. Additionally, the cosigner takes on the responsibility of the debt. If you default on your loan payments, the cosigner will inherit the responsibility of repayment.

When you refinance your student loans without a cosigner, it means that you’re fully responsible for the loan. It also means that you must meet the approval requirements, such as having a good credit score and being in good financial standing.

Benefits of Refinancing Student Loans Without a Cosigner

Refinancing your student loans without a cosigner comes with a few benefits.

Financial Independence

Refinancing student loans without a cosigner is a good way to build financial confidence. Applying for and making payments on your refinance loan may give you a sense of accomplishment. The confidence you build from paying off your refinance loan can trickle into other aspects of your life and set you up for a financially secure future.

Not only that, but repaying student loans can help you build credit as long as you make your payments on time each month.

Recommended: How Do Student Loans Affect Your Credit Score?

You’re Solely Responsible for the Debt

If you choose to refinance your student loans without a cosigner, you’re allowing yourself to build your credit and take full responsibility for your debt.

When you refinance with a cosigner, you’re both equally responsible for the debt. If you make your payments on time, this can be a good thing. However, you both may experience financial consequences if you default on your student loan payment. Since the cosigner is also responsible for the debt, default could hurt both of your credit scores and chances of getting new credit.

Damaging your cosigner’s credit could cause a rift in your relationship, and no one wants that. If you refinance without a cosigner, any financial distress will only impact your finances.

Downsides of Refinancing Student Loans Without a Cosigner

While refinancing your student loans without a cosigner can improve your financial confidence, there are also some drawbacks to not applying with a cosigner.

Potentially Higher Interest Rates

Your credit score helps lenders determine your interest rate. Usually, those with the highest credit scores get the most favorable rates. Because of that, including a cosigner with excellent credit on your loan application can be advantageous, even if you meet the eligibility criteria yourself. A cosigner can enhance your creditworthiness and reduce the perceived risk, making you a more attractive borrower. This could result in a lower interest rate being offered to you.

Remember, the lower the interest rate, the more money you can save on your loan.

Can Be Harder to Get Approved

Finding a loan can be challenging if you don’t meet a lender’s refinance eligibility requirements. Adding a cosigner helps improve your odds because they take on the risk of the debt, too.

You’ll Lose Access to Federal Benefits

When you refinance your student loans with a private lender, whether you use a cosigner or not, you lose access to federal protections. For example, if you’re struggling to pay your federal student loans, you can enroll in an income-driven repayment plan. With this plan, your payment is based on your income and your family size, possibly bringing it down to zero. Make sure you don’t foresee yourself ever needing this or other federal benefits before deciding to refinance your student loans.

How to Refinance If You Can’t Find a Cosigner

When you refinance your student loans without a cosigner, you must provide essential information to prove your eligibility. Most lenders require borrowers to be 18 years or older, be employed or have income from another source, and have a decent credit score. Here are some other requirements it’s important to be aware of.

Qualifying With Your Own Credit Score

Lenders use various factors to determine what credit score makes you eligible for a refinance loan. The FICO® credit score scale ranges from 300 to 850, and those with the highest scores will qualify for the most competitive rates and terms.

Typically, lenders require primary borrowers to have at least a 670 credit score to qualify. If your credit score isn’t quite there yet, it may serve you best to refinance your student loans with a cosigner.

Debt-to-Income Ratio Requirements

Another factor lenders consider is your debt-to-income ratio, or DTI. This ratio informs lenders about the proportion of your monthly income utilized to repay debts compared to the amount of income that flows into your household.

To calculate your DTI, add up your monthly debt and then divide by your income before taxes (gross income). The lower your DTI, the lower the risk you’ll be to lenders. Ideally, you’ll want a DTI below 40%. If your DTI exceeds this amount, focus on paying down debt before you refinance student loans without a cosigner.

Employment Status and Income

To qualify for a student loan refinance without a cosigner, you must either:

•   be presently employed,

•   generate revenue from alternative sources,

•   or have an employment offer scheduled to commence within the next 90 days.

But remember, all lenders use different employment criteria to determine eligibility. Make sure you check with your lender to find out what they require.

Length of Credit History

Lastly, your credit history plays a role in your refinance loan approval. Your credit history includes your total debt, credit accounts (past and present), and your payment history. In addition, your credit history helps lenders determine how responsible you are with credit.

Tips on Refinancing Student Loans Without a Cosigner

Fortunately, it’s possible to refinance student loans without a cosigner. Here are a few tips to get you started.

Find a Lender With an Alternative Credit Check

Suppose you’re struggling to obtain approval for a loan without a cosigner. In that case, you may consider searching for a lender that employs an alternative credit screening process. Some lenders, for example, might provide a different pathway to approval that involves assessing your academic achievements, area of study, likelihood of graduation, and projected income to ascertain whether you qualify for a loan or refinancing.

Note that if you choose to use a lender with an alternative credit check, it could result in a higher interest rate for your loan refinancing.

Build Your Credit Score

Your credit score is one of the most important driving factors of loan approval. Usually, lenders want to see a credit score that hovers around 670 to qualify for a student refinance loan. If your credit score is less than 670, you may not qualify for the loan or you could receive a higher interest rate, which would defeat the purpose of refinancing.

It’s a good idea to take the time to build your credit before refinancing. Making on-time payments and paying down debt are two ways to do so.

Then, once you build your credit score, you can apply for a refinance loan and receive a more favorable rate.

Ensure You Have a Stable Income

Another critical factor lenders look at to determine your refinance loan approval is your income. The minimum income threshold varies across lenders, but typically lenders want you to make at least $20,000 annually.

If you just graduated college or are looking for a new job, you may need to hold off applying for refinancing until you have a stable income and can afford the new monthly payment.

Recommended: Student Loan Refinancing Calculator

Compare Lenders Before Applying

Student refinance loan criteria vary by lender, so comparing your options can increase your chances of approval and help you secure the most favorable rates and terms.

Most lenders will first prequalify you for the loan, which allows you to review the projected interest rates and conditions without committing to the loan. Prequalification only requires the lender to complete a soft inquiry of your credit, meaning it won’t impact your credit score.

Recommended: What’s the Difference Between a Hard and Soft Credit Check?

Get a Cosigner Release on Your Student Loans

Another option is to proceed with a cosigner and, after that, seek a cosigner release for your student loan. This release implies that the cosigner is discharged from the loan obligation if you meet specific criteria, such as fulfilling a minimum payment requirement.

After the release is approved, the cosigner is no longer held responsible for your debt if you default on your loan.

Refinancing Student Loans With SoFi

You can refinance your student loans without a cosigner, but you must meet the lender’s requirements. Most lenders require a credit score of at least 670 and a debt-to-income ratio below 40% to qualify for the best rates. If you have both of those, refinancing without a cosigner is worth considering.

SoFi offers a fast, easy online application, live customer support, no application or origination fees, and no prepayment penalties.

FAQ

Does refinancing a student loan release the cosigner?

Yes. When you refinance, you can remove the existing cosigner from the previous loan.

Can you refinance student loans without a cosigner?

Yes. As long as you meet the approval requirements, such as being employed, having decent credit, and having an income source, you can refinance your student loans without a cosigner.

Is it more difficult to refinance student loans without a cosigner?

The difficulty of approval depends on your financial situation. You may be fine qualifying without a cosigner if you have excellent credit and steady income. On the other hand, if your credit needs work or you’re unemployed, you may not qualify without a cosigner.

About the author

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy is a seasoned personal finance writer with 15 years of experience simplifying complex concepts for individuals seeking financial security. Her expertise has shined through in well-known publications like Rolling Stone, Forbes, SmartAsset, and Money Talks News. Read full bio.

SoFi Student Loan Refinance
Terms and conditions apply. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are private loans. When you refinance federal loans with a SoFi loan, YOU FOREFEIT YOUR EILIGIBILITY FOR ALL FEDERAL LOAN BENEFITS, including all flexible federal repayment and forgiveness options that are or may become available to federal student loan borrowers including, but not limited to: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, extended repayment plans, PAYE or SAVE. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. Learn more at SoFi.com/eligibility. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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