Jul
20
2023
What Are State Student Loan Programs?

What Are State Student Loan Programs?

By | Going to College, Student Loans, student_loan | Comments Off on What Are State Student Loan Programs?

Congrats! Your school is offering you a scholarship and grant. And, your parents are pitching in. You’ve even been awarded some federal grant aid. But it doesn’t cover the entire bill.

If this is you, loans are an option. Taking on debt is not your first choice — but a college education can be an investment in your future. You can earn potentially 55% more with a bachelor’s degree than with only a high school diploma, according to National Center for Educational Statistics data from 2021.

State student loan programs are an option to consider. They are loans provided and guaranteed by state government agencies. The loan programs are unique to each state and require specific eligibility requirements, such as state residency, to qualify. Though the institutions are non-profits or state-run, the loans are considered private.

State Student Loan Programs, Explained

State student loans are offered by state government agencies. They generally have similar requirements and benefits to federal loans: low, fixed interest rates and flexible repayment plans. Some even offer subsidized (interest-free) loans and a deferred repayment plan. Though some states may waive a credit check, other lenders do require it. Students without a solid credit history may need to consider applying with a cosigner.

State student loans agencies are also unique because they are run not-for-profit and benefit the local community. As a local entity, they tend to be more mission-minded and offer more personable customer service.

These programs may offer a strong alternative for students who have exhausted financial aid and federal student loans.

Recommended: Types of Federal Student Loans

What Are State Student Loan Programs?

State student loan programs vary in scope by state and not all states offer this option. Typically, a state’s department of postsecondary education is responsible for managing the loan program.

Also, terms and eligibility requirements differ from state to state. For instance, Georgia state offers the “Student Access Loan” through the Georgia Student Finance Authority. It’s a 1% fixed rate loan offered exclusively to Georgia residents.

Eligibility is strict, however. Prospective or current students must be enrolled in an institution from one of three university systems in Georgia (University System of Georgia, Technical College System of Georgia or Private postsecondary institutions). A maximum of $8,000 can be awarded per year: up to $36,000 in a college career.

Applying for State Student Loan Programs

Many state student loans’ first step is filling out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). According to the U.S. Department of Education, some programs are first-come, first-serve — so it may help to apply early.

To get started, find your state’s department of postsecondary education. The U.S. Department of Education maintains a list of each state’s agency . These departments will be your direct sources of information on loan programs, eligibility, and how to apply. They can direct you to state student loan programs, if any are available.

It’s best to contact your department first for the latest programs. But the Education Finance Council has a comprehensive list of all participating state agencies. It may also be helpful to connect with your financial aid office, as they may have insight into state and college-specific aid opportunities.

If your state does not offer student loans — consider out-of-state agencies that accept out-of-state students like the Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority (MEFA). Massachusetts’ state legislature created MEFA in 1982 to provide low-cost finance alternatives for families and students. They offer undergraduate loans with fixed rates from 5.35% to 7.95% APR, as of July 2023.

Recommended: FAFSA 101: How to Complete the FAFSA

What Can State Student Loan Programs Be Used For?

Borrowers use state student loans for college programs, whether professional, undergraduate, or graduate.

Your “cost of attendance” (COA) is a federal term that defines expenses from your higher ed programs. They can include tuition, room, food, books, and supplies.

State student loans should not be used for sorority and fraternity dues, vacation travel, or non-discretionary dining. Generally, it’s wise to use the minimum required to pay for educational needs in order to pay lower interest fees after graduation.

Tuition

Tuition is the price of the actual education. It covers the cost of your classes and varies by the amount of credits required in your major. Charges will also vary depending on whether the school is public or private, or if students are in-state.

Room & Board

Room and board refers to housing and meals provided on a college campus. Types of housing include dorms or university-owned apartments.

Some students cut substantial costs by living at home and commuting to school. If living at home is not an option, off-campus rentals can also be covered by state student loans. This option may be cheaper, especially if roommates split the rent.

Recommended: Using Student Loans for Living Expenses and Housing

School Supplies & Equipment

Books, laptops, and other educational equipment are also part of COA. It can cover general school items such as pens and notebooks. And, equipment includes degree-specific equipment and gear, such as Adobe software for graphic design majors or cameras for photography students.

Consider buying second-hand books or renting e-books. E-books in general are cheaper than physical textbooks.

Transportation

If your classes are not walking distance — COA covers all local transportation costs such as car, taxi, and public transit. Examples are monthly train passes or gas for your car. Loans cannot be used to purchase a vehicle.

Personal Expenses

These expenses cover daily needs such as toiletries, groceries, laundry, haircuts, and other personal matters while a college student. They can also cover your phone and internet bill.

Dependent Care Expenses

Childcare is included in COA. This includes daycare or babysitters. Determine your aid amount by the number and age of dependents, as well as hours of care needed.

Other Costs Associated with Schooling

Miscellaneous expenses are covered too. Examples might include study abroad programs and special needs equipment. COA also covers general campus fees such as orientation fees, student social activity fees, health insurance fees, and more.

Recommended: I Didn’t Get Enough Financial Aid: Now What?

State Loan Programs vs Private Student Loans

State student loan programs have minor differences from private student loans.

Benefits to state student loans may include a more competitive interest rate or a deferred payment plan. Some programs offer one interest rate for everyone — regardless of credit score. This means everyone accepted into the program is charged the same interest rate regardless of credit history. Minnesota’s Office of Higher Education, for example, offers one 6.35% fixed rate or 2.2% variable rate for all borrowers. Furthermore, the Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education allows borrowers to defer paying off student loans six months after graduation. Private lenders typically have higher interest rates that are generally determined based on the applicant’s credit history and income, among other factors. Also, private loans may not have deferred repayment plans.

State loan programs usually have a maximum borrowing amount for students. For instance, Georgia’s program awards a maximum of $8,000 per year — while Minnesota’s program awards up to $20,000 per year. Private lenders generally have no cap.

State college loan programs have more strict eligibility requirements for borrowers. The above-mentioned state agencies in Georgia and Minnesota lend only to in-state residents. Georgia has even stricter policies: the schools must be in-state. Alaska’s program however, allows Alaskan residents to use funds for out of state tuition.

Lastly, state student loan programs are not available in every state — whereas there are several private lenders to choose from nationally.

Explore Private Student Loans with SoFi

If you’re short on college cash with financial aid and family contributions, a private student loan can cover the difference. Because they lack the borrower protections offer to federal loan borrowers, such as deferment options, they may be an alternative to consider when all other options have been exhausted.

SoFi’s private student loans are available for undergraduate and graduate students, or their parents. Plus the loans have no fees. Borrowers are also able to choose from four flexible repayment plans.

Students can choose to defer payments up to six months after graduating school, make interest-only repayments, or pay immediately. And, we offer a unique feature that releases co-signers from loan obligations after 24 on-time payments.

Interested in financing your education with a SoFi private student loan? Find out if you qualify within minutes.

FAQ

What are state student loans?

State student loans are non-federal funds offered via U.S. state higher education offices. They generally offer lower interest rates and various benefits to residents. Some state agencies lend nationally.

Are state student loans offered through the government?

State student loans are offered through state-level government agencies — not national (federal) agencies.

Photo credit: iStock/Nelson_A_Ishikawa

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. SoFi Bank, N.A. and its lending products are not endorsed by or directly affiliated with any college or university unless otherwise disclosed.

Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Jul
19
2023
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Can You Get A Student Loan With No Credit History?

By | Credit, invest, personal_loan, Student Loans, student_loan | No Comments

If you’re considering borrowing student loans, you may be wondering if it’s possible to get a student loan without a credit history.

It is. You can borrow a student loan with no credit history, and it’s possible to get student loans with no credit check. Federal student loans (except PLUS Loans) don’t require a credit check.

Private lenders do, however, review an applicant’s credit history during the application process. Potential borrowers who don’t have a strong credit history may be able to add a cosigner to strengthen their application, but there are no guarantees.

Federal vs Private Student Loans

Student loans fall into two general categories: federal (offered by the government) and private (offered by banks and other lenders). There are options under each category that range from different eligibility requirements to fixed vs. variable interest rates. You can learn more about private vs. federal student loans in this student loans guide.

Types of Federal Student Loans

If you’re searching for “student loans, no credit check,” federal student loans (aside from PLUS loans) fit that description. Federal student loans are funded by the U.S. Department of Education and are based on education costs and your current financial situation, not your credit history.

The most desirable type of federal loan, the Direct Subsidized Loan, has relatively low fixed interest rates that are set each year by the government.

Subsidization means that the government will pay for any interest that accrues on the loan while you’re in school at least half-time, as well as during your grace period and some deferral periods. Direct Subsidized Loans are awarded based on financial need and are only available to undergraduate students.

The other type of no-credit-required federal loan is the Direct Unsubsidized Loan. It also typically has low interest rates, but no subsidy means the interest starts to accrue as soon as the money is loaned, and borrowers are required to pay the interest that accrues. Unsubsidized loans are available to students at all levels of higher education and are therefore one of the most accessible types of student loans.

One advantage with both these types of federal student loans is repayment flexibility, including deferment, income-driven repayment plans, and forgiveness programs like Public Service Loan Forgiveness. If you’re trying to build or improve your credit score, repayment options that could help keep you out of default are key.

Private Student Loans

Students also have the option of applying for private student loans, including graduate loans, which are available through some banks, credit unions, or private lenders. The terms can be very different depending on the type of loan, whether you choose a fixed or variable interest rate, and your financial history — which includes things like your credit score.

If you have less-than-stellar credit, or not much of a credit history and income, you’ll likely need to apply with a cosigner, typically a family member or a close friend who guarantees to repay the loan in the event that you can’t. It’s important to choose a cosigner wisely. It should be someone with a solid financial history that you trust.

💡 Quick Tip: Fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee SoFi private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

Applying for Student Loans With FAFSA®

To start the federal student loan application process, fill out the FAFSA® (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Filling out the FAFSA is free, and it doesn’t commit you to any particular type of loan. The FAFSA is also the tool used by many schools to determine a student’s full financial aid award, including scholarships, grants, work-study, and federal student loans.

You can explore student loan and scholarship information for more ways to help cover the costs of college.

Applying for Private Student Loans

To get a private student loan, potential borrowers will apply directly with the private lender of their choosing. Each loan application may vary slightly by lender as will the terms and interest rates. Private student loans don’t have the same borrower protections that federal student loans offer, such as income-driven repayment plans or deferment or forbearance options. Therefore, they’re generally considered as a last resort, after all other sources of aid have been exhausted.

Parent PLUS Loans

Students aren’t the only ones who can apply for federal financial aid. Parents of undergrad students that are enrolled at least half-time can apply to receive aid on their behalf via the Parent PLUS Loan.

This is another type of unsubsidized federal loan, but it’s more restrictive in that both parents and children need to meet the minimum eligibility requirements. This type of federal student loan requires a credit check.

Like private loans, borrowers who don’t have optimal credit history may apply with a cosigner to guarantee a PLUS loan. And students are still typically able to seek additional unsubsidized loans for themselves to cover any gaps.

💡 Quick Tip: Parents and sponsors with strong credit and income may find much lower rates on no-fee private parent student loans than federal parent PLUS loans. Federal PLUS loans also come with an origination fee.

Tips for Building Credit

Entering college can be a smart time to start establishing credit. A borrower’s credit score could mean the difference between getting a good deal on a loan, or not getting a loan at all. Even a few points higher or lower might impact the interest rates a borrower may qualify for.

There are a number of sites that let you see your credit score for free and offer notifications if there are changes, so it’s easy to keep track of where you are.

The number that signifies “good” credit is between 670-739 for FICO Scores®. These scores are determined by factors such as the number of credit accounts a person has and how they are managed. One way to start building credit is to open some kind of credit account, and then make regular payments.

Paying bills on time, the credit mix you have, and your credit utilization ratio may all play a role in determining a credit score. While everyone’s circumstances are unique, try to make bill payments on time. Another general rule of thumb to aim for is to keep the credit utilization ratio under 30%.

The Takeaway

Most federal student loans do not require a credit check and may be considered no credit check student loans. They are available to borrowers with no credit history. Parent PLUS loans are one exception as they are federal student loans that do require a credit check.

Private student loans also require a credit check. Students with a limited credit history may have the option to apply with a cosigner if they are interested in borrowing a private student loan. As noted earlier, however, adding a cosigner does not necessarily guarantee approval for a loan.

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.


Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

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Jul
19
2023
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Should You or Your Child Take Out a Loan for College?

By | Family Finances, Student Loans, student_loan | No Comments

The desire to help your kid pay for college so they can focus on their studies is a strong one, but it’s important to consider your options when it comes to borrowing money. Parents have a couple of options for borrowing to help pay for their child’s college education. They can borrow a Parent PLUS Loan — a type of federal loan — or a private student loan to help their child pay for college. Though, it may not always make sense for parents to take on debt on behalf of their child’s education.

Read on for a high-level overview of which types of student loans you could apply for, as well as some advantages and disadvantages of taking out those loans in your name.

Key Points

•   Parents can consider two primary options for financing their child’s college education: Parent PLUS loans, which are federal loans, and private student loans from individual lenders.

•   Parent PLUS loans offer fixed interest rates and flexible repayment options, but they require the child to complete the FAFSA before applying.

•   Private student loans may provide lower interest rates for parents with strong credit histories and allow for fixed or variable rates with customizable repayment terms.

•   Taking out loans in a parent’s name can reduce financial burden on the child, but repayment responsibility and the potential negative impact on credit scores must be considered.

•   Before resorting to loans, maximizing federal aid, scholarships, and grants is usually recommended to minimize future financial obligations.

What Are Parent Student Loan Options?

As mentioned, parents interested in borrowing a loan to help their students pay for college have two main options. The first is a Parent PLUS loan, a federal loan available through the Direct Loan program. The other is borrowing a parent loan from a private lender.

Parent PLUS Federal Student Loans

Parent plus loans are a type of federal student loan that can be borrowed by the parent of an undergraduate student to help their child pay for college education costs. The benefits of a Parent PLUS loan can include:

•   A fixed interest rate (for loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2023, and before July 1, 2024, the interest rate is 8.05%)

•   Deferment under certain conditions

•   Flexible repayment options

•   Possible eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness

To apply for a Parent PLUS loan, your child must first file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, also known as FAFSA®. Then, eligible parents of undergraduate students can fill out the Direct PLUS Loan Application online.

It’s not possible to transfer a Parent PLUS loan to your child. However, Parent PLUS refinancing with a private lender may allow your child to refinance a Parent PLUS loan in their name.

Keep in mind that your child may be eligible for federal student aid including federal loans, scholarships, and grants too. If your child is taking out federal student loans, they may be eligible for:

•   Direct Subsidized Loans. These loans are subsidized by the federal government and students are not responsible for paying accrued interest while they are enrolled, during the loan’s grace period, or during qualifying terms of deferment.

•   Direct Unsubsidized Loans. These loans are not subsidized by the federal government and student borrowers are responsible for accrued interest costs on the loan while they are enrolled in school.

•   Direct PLUS Loans (for graduate school). These loans are available for graduate students.

Depending on demonstrated financial need, your child may qualify for a combination of these loan types in addition to scholarships, grants, or work-study. However, if all other federal aid is exhausted, the Parent PLUS loan might be an option to supplement your child’s tuition payments after federal aid, scholarships, or grants.

Private Student Loans for Parents

When federal student loan options are exhausted, some students and parents may turn to private loans to help fund their education. Parents can take out a private loan in their own name to pay for college for their student. If you have a strong credit history, you might consider a private loan over the PLUS loan — there’s a chance you could potentially qualify for a lower interest rate.

With a private student loan, you may have the option of a fixed- or variable-rate loan, potentially giving you more flexibility on repayment. With a private student loan, you might have the chance to choose the term length of a loan as well.

Your child can also apply for private loans, but in many cases, they’ll require a cosigner.

Private Student Loans for Parents vs Parent PLUS Loans

This table provides a high-level overview of the differences between private student loans for parents and Parent PLUS loans.

Private Student Loans for Parents

 Parent PLUS Loans
To apply, interested parents will need to fill out an application with an individual private lender. To apply, students first need to fill out the FAFSA®. Then parent’s can fill out the Direct PLUS Loan Application on the Student Aid website.
The application process will usually involve a credit check. This will be used to help determine the loan terms an applicant qualifies for, in addition to other factors. There is a credit check, however it will not be used to determine terms like the interest rate. Interest rates on Direct PLUS loans are set annually by congress.
Interest rates may be fixed or variable. Interest rates are fixed.
Repayment plans will be determined by the individual lender. PLUS loans qualify for some federal repayment plans.

Pros and Cons of Taking the Loan Out in Your Name

Taking out a student loan for your child in your name — federal or private — could mean less of a financial burden on your child as they enter college. Since the loans are in your name, it’s not up to your child to pay them, even after a degree is earned.

The Pros

Borrowing can be a tool to help you pay for your child’s education. If you can afford to make the loan payments without sacrificing your own financial security, this could be a helpful move for your child.

Another pro is that the loan payments will be made in your name — that means they’ll count toward your credit history. If you’re able to make all of the loan payments on-time, it could prove to have a beneficial impact on your credit score.

If you have a strong credit history, you could potentially qualify for a more competitive interest rate than your child could.

The Cons

The most obvious con is that while you’ll be able to help your child pay for college, you’ll need to repay the money with interest. Other types of aid like scholarships, grants, and Direct Subsidized or Subsidized loans borrowed by your child are generally prioritized over a parent loan.

Again, because the loan is in your name, any late payments or issues will be attributed to your personal credit history. Things like late payments have the potential to impact your credit score.

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to borrow for your child’s future, just consider all your options and think about what you, or they, can afford to pay back. It’s almost always a good idea to maximize federal aid and scholarships before resorting to loans of any kind.

The following table provides an overview of some of the pros and cons for borrowing as a parent to help your student pay for college.

Pros

 Cons
Parent student loans can allow parents to help pay for their child’s college education. Loans will need to be repaid with interest. Students and their families generally will prioritize other types of aid that don’t require repayment or that have a lower interest rate.
Parent student loans are in the name of the parent borrower. Therefore the parent may benefit from any boost in credit score from making on-time payments. A parent’s credit score could be negatively impacted if they are unable to make their monthly payments.

The Takeaway

Parent PLUS Loans are federal loans that allow parents of undergraduate students to help pay for their child’s education. These loans have a fixed interest rate and are eligible for most federal repayment plans.

Parents with a strong credit history may be able to qualify for more competitive interest rates through a private student loan. SoFi offers student loans for parent borrowers. There are no fees, competitive rates for qualifying borrowers, and applications are entirely online.

Learn more and find out if you qualify for a SoFi parent student loan in just a few minutes.

FAQ

Which type of student loans can parents take out on behalf of the student?

Parents with undergraduate students have two options for borrowing to help their child pay for college. They can borrow a Direct PLUS loan through the federal government or a private loan from a private lender.

Who is responsible for paying back Parent PLUS loans?

Parent PLUS loans are in the parent’s name. The parent is solely responsible for repaying the loan.

What to do if you aren’t able to take out a Parent PLUS loan?

If you aren’t able to borrow a Parent PLUS loan you can consider adding a cosigner to your PLUS loan application. This may help your chances of getting approved. Additionally, if you are applying for a private loan, you may have the option of adding a cosigner which could potentially improve your chances of gaining approval or securing a more competitive interest rate.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Jul
19
2023
How to Start Saving for Your Child's College Tuition

How to Start Saving for Your Child’s College Tuition

By | Budgeting & Goals, Life & Career, student_loan | No Comments

Saving for kids’ college expenses can be a massive undertaking, but a critically important one. If you’re a parent, you’ve probably heard the mantra that education is the key to a successful future for your child. You’re also likely aware that college isn’t cheap, and it isn’t getting cheaper.

The escalating costs of college may have you worried about how to pay for higher education. You’re smart to think about how to start saving for college, even if your kids are still young. If you truly want to give your child the gift of a college education and free them from overwhelming student debt, the time to plan is now.

When to Start Saving for Your Kids’ College Tuition

Generally speaking, the sooner you can start saving for your kids’ college fund or overall education, the better. Tuition, even at in-state public schools (which tend to be the least-expensive options for many people) are already in the four and five-figures territory, depending on where you live. And, as noted, it’s unlikely that costs are going to decrease in any meaningful way in the near future.

For parents who paid for college using student loans, emphasizing saving for their children’s college expenses may be a no-brainer. Those parents may benefit from looking through a student loan refinancing guide, too, to see if they can free up space in their budget to increase their capacity for saving – more on that in a minute.

Yes, there are schools that offer free tuition, but it’s probably best to plan on paying for attendance – you never know what could happen going forward.

With that in mind, it’s never too early to start socking away money for your children’s education. Getting a head start gives your money more time to grow over the long term and to rebound after any dips.

It also means you can recalibrate if your child seems to be on track for scholarships related to sports or academic achievements, or if your child decides to forgo college. Keep in mind that the money you save will generally affect the financial aid package your child qualifies for.

Before you launch a college savings plan for your kids, it’s best to have your other financial ducks in a row. You might first focus on paying off any credit card balances or other high-interest debt. Then you might want to make sure you’ve paid off your own student loans (or looked at student loan refinancing, at least) and saved an emergency fund (generally three to six months’ worth of living expenses), and are on track in terms of saving for retirement.

After all, your child always has the option to take out student loans, but you can’t rely on that to pay for a crisis or retirement. You wouldn’t want to have saved for your kids’ college only to burden them with your living expenses after you retire because you haven’t built a nest egg.

Again, if you’re still grappling with your own student loan debts, you can experiment with a student loan refinance calculator to see if refinancing can make it easier to pay it off, and put you in a better position to start saving for your child’s education.

The Best Ways to Save for Child’s College

If you’re ready to start saving for higher education, you may be tempted to keep that cash reserve in a savings account. While it might seem like that would protect your funds from market ups and downs, you might actually be losing money.

That’s because even accounts with the best interest rates aren’t keeping up with the pace of inflation. Especially if your child won’t be going to college for a while, investing your savings is a way you might see your money grow. Keep in mind that investments can lose money.

It’s also worth mentioning, again, that many parents may still be struggling with their own student loan debts. As such, it’s worth asking: should you refinance your student loans? It’s worth considering, at the very least, or speaking with a financial professional about if you think it may help you save for your child’s college expenses.

Here are some of the best ways to save for a child’s college:

529 Plans

A 529 plan, also known as a “qualified tuition plan,” allows you to save for education costs while taking advantage of tax benefits (the plan is named after the section of the Internal Revenue Code that governs it). 529 plans break down into two categories: educational savings plans and prepaid tuition plans.

Educational savings plans, which are sponsored by states, allow you to open an investment account for your child, who can use the money for tuition, fees, room and board, and other qualifying expenses at any college or university. You can also use up to $10,000 a year to pay for schooling costs before college.

You can invest the money in a variety of assets, including mutual funds or target-date funds based on when you expect your child to go to college. The specific tax benefit depends on your state and plan. Generally, you contribute after-tax money, your earnings grow tax-free, and you can withdraw the money for qualified expenses without paying taxes or penalties. If you withdraw money for anything else, you’ll pay a 10% tax penalty on earnings.

Not all states offer tax benefits, so be sure to look into this when choosing your plan.

💡 Quick Tip: All investments come with some degree of risk — and some are riskier than others. Before investing online, decide on your investment goals and how much risk you want to take.


Prepaid tuition plans, as you may expect, allow you to prepay tuition and fees at a college at current prices. These plans are only available at certain universities, usually public institutions, and often require you to live in the same state. A prepaid tuition plan can save you a lot of money, given how much college costs are increasing each year.

Depending on the state and the 529 plan, you may be able to deduct contributions from state income tax. However, if your prepaid tuition plan isn’t guaranteed by the state, you might lose money if the institution runs into financial trouble. You also run the risk that your child will choose to go to a school that’s outside the area covered by the plan.

Coverdell Education Savings Account

Like a 529 educational savings plan, a Coverdell ESA allows you to set up a savings account for someone under age 18 to pay for qualified education expenses. The money can be invested in a variety of stocks, bonds, or other assets, and grows tax-free.

Your contributions are not tax-deductible, and the plan is only available to people who earn under a certain income threshold.

When your child withdraws the funds for qualified educational expenses, they won’t pay taxes on it. The money can also pay for elementary or secondary education. But note that you can only contribute $2,000 per year to a Coverdell ESA per beneficiary.

UGMA and UTMA Accounts

You can open a Uniform Gifts to Minors Act or Uniform Transfers to Minors Act account on behalf of a beneficiary under 18, and all the assets in it will transfer to the minor when he or she becomes an adult (at age 18 to 25, depending on the state).

Young adults are able to use the funds for anything they want. That means they won’t be limited to qualified education expenses. Another plus is that you can contribute as much as you want. The downside is that there are no tax benefits when contributions are made. Earnings are taxable.

A custodial account is an irrevocable gift to the minor named as the beneficiary, who receives legal control of the account at the age of majority.

The Takeaway

Given the increasing costs of higher education, parents are smart to save for a child’s college early and often. But rather than keep the money in a savings account, they’d likely benefit by choosing an option that lets their money grow.

The more popular routes for doing so often involve 529 Plans, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts, and UGMA and UTMA accounts. But you’ll need to do some thinking and research before deciding on the right strategy and accounts for you and your child. Just remember: The sooner you start saving, the better — generally speaking.

Ready to invest in your goals? It’s easy to get started when you open an investment account with SoFi Invest. You can invest in stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), mutual funds, alternative funds, and more. SoFi doesn’t charge commissions, but other fees apply (full fee disclosure here).

For a limited time, opening and funding an Active Invest account gives you the opportunity to get up to $1,000 in the stock of your choice.

SoFi Invest®

INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE

SoFi Invest encompasses two distinct companies, with various products and services offered to investors as described below: Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of these platforms.
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2) Active Investing and brokerage services are provided by SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA (www.finra.org)/SIPC(www.sipc.org). Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.
For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above please visit SoFi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Claw Promotion: Customer must fund their Active Invest account with at least $25 within 30 days of opening the account. Probability of customer receiving $1,000 is 0.028%. See full terms and conditions.

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Jul
19
2023
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How Long Does It Take to Get a Student Loan?

By | Student Loans, student_loan | No Comments

If you’re planning to take out student loans to help pay for college, you’re probably wondering: How long does it take to get student loans? and when should I submit my application?

Understanding the time involved can be critical, especially if your tuition will soon be due.

Key Points

•   The time it takes to secure student loans varies based on whether the loans are federal or private, with processes typically taking weeks or longer.

•   Federal student loans are usually disbursed once per term after completing the FAFSA, which can take from five days to over two weeks to process.

•   Submitting the FAFSA is essential for determining eligibility for various types of federal aid, and colleges may have their own deadlines for submission.

•   Private student loans have varying timelines depending on the lender, with funds often disbursed between two to ten weeks after loan approval.

•   Understanding the differences in repayment terms and interest rates between federal and private loans is crucial for managing future financial obligations.

Getting a Student Loan: How Long Does it Take?

The timing for student loans can vary, depending on whether you’re taking out private or federal student loans. Also, the process itself takes time because you need to apply for the loan, get approved, and then wait for your loan funds to be disbursed. In total, it can take weeks or sometimes even longer.

Federal student loans are generally disbursed once per term. The process for private student loans may depend on the lender.

💡 Quick Tip: When shopping for a private student loan lender, look for benefits that help lower your monthly payment.

Does the Length of Time Vary Between Loan Types?

The wait time on receiving student loans depends on the type of loans and the loan source. The federal government is the most common source for student loans since it usually offers the lowest fixed interest rates and the most flexible repayment plans.

Additionally, there are also private lenders that offer private student loans. This student loans guide can be helpful for understanding how private student loans work and how they differ from federal loans.

You can also look into student loan and scholarship information to help cover the costs of college.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Federal Student Loan?

Applying for federal student loans is generally a straightforward process. You start by filling out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®).

Even if you think you won’t qualify because of your household income or high school GPA, it doesn’t hurt to submit the FAFSA because it’s free. You may even discover that you’re eligible for federal aid like grants and work-study, and therefore you might not need as many loans as you thought. Along with your eligibility for federal aid, the FAFSA application will also let you know your federal student loan options.

But how long does it take to get a student loan? Depending on how the FAFSA is submitted, the wait time can range from about five days to over two weeks. Applications submitted online may be processed as soon as three to five days. Those submitted by mail may take up to 10 days.

Once the FAFSA is processed, students will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR), the expected family contribution and student eligibility for Pell Grants. Colleges listed on the FAFSA will receive a copy of the SAR and they’ll use this information to determine the exact type and amount of federal aid a student is eligible for.

Generally, the student’s college will disburse federal student loan funds at least once per term. Some colleges may be subject to a 30-day delay (past the first day of the payment period) when it comes time to disburse funds among first-time borrowers.

The FAFSA is available on October 1 for the next school year, and the deadline for submitting it is June 30th of the following year. However, colleges may have earlier deadlines for submission, so be sure to check.

💡 Quick Tip: Need a private student loan to cover your school bills? Because approval for a private student loan is based on creditworthiness, a cosigner may help a student get loan approval and a lower rate.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Private Student Loan?

Private loans, which can include graduate loans, come from private (aka non-government) lenders who don’t have the same set standards as federal loans. No private lender functions exactly the same as the next when it comes to interest rates and payment plans, which includes when you’re required to begin student loan repayment.

When applying for a private loan, it’s very important that you clearly read the contract and know when loan repayment is expected. Private loans may not have the six-month grace period that federal loans offer.

And they won’t necessarily offer fixed interest rates, which means your interest rates could increase over time if you opt for a variable-rate loan.

How long do student loans take to process? Because each lender will have different application requirements and payment processes, there is no specific timeline for receiving your funds. However, you can generally expect that your private lender will send your loan funds to your college or university anywhere from two to 10 weeks from the date your loan application is approved.

Private lenders may offer school-certified loans or direct-to-consumer loans. When borrowing a school-certified loan, the loan amount is disbursed directly to the school. Direct-to-consumer loans are disbursed directly to the borrower.

Serious savings. Save thousands of dollars
thanks to flexible terms and low fixed or variable rates.

The Takeaway

When applying for a federal loan using the FAFSA, it may take anywhere from a few days to two weeks to find out what types of loans you’re eligible for. The loans will then be disbursed directly to your school, at least once per term. If you have questions, contact the financial aid office at the school.

The application process for private student loans varies from lender to lender. It can take anywhere from two to 10 weeks for the loan to be disbursed once the loan application has been processed.

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.


Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

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