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Can You Refinance Student Loans More Than Once?

Refinancing your student debt can have many benefits, including saving money on interest, lowering your monthly payments, or changing your repayment terms. But can you do it more than once? And, if so, should you?

Yes. And maybe.

There is no limit on how many times you can refinance your student loans. If your finances and credit have improved since you last refinanced and/or market interest rates have gone down, it may be worthwhile to refinance your loans, even if you’ve refinanced before.

That said, refinancing multiple times isn’t always worthwhile. Here are key things to consider before you refinance your student loans more than once.

Key Points

•   There is no limit to how many times you can refinance student loans, as long as you qualify each time.

•   Refinancing again can be beneficial if your credit has improved, interest rates have dropped, or you need different repayment terms.

•   Lower interest rates can reduce overall costs, and some lenders offer better repayment options or promotional discounts.

•   Frequent refinancing can impact your credit score, extend repayment (increasing total interest paid), and require time and effort.

•   Before refinancing again, compare interest rates, loan terms, lender reputation, and fees to ensure it’s the right decision.

How Many Times Can You Refinance Student Loans?

Technically, there is no limit to the number of times you can refinance your student loans with a private lender. In fact, as long as you qualify, you can refinance your student loans as many times and as often as you’d like. And given that lenders often don’t charge prepayment penalties or origination fees, there may be no extra cost involved with refinancing your student loans again.

Refinancing student loans again generally makes the most sense when your finances or credit score improves or interest rates decline. In these cases, it may be possible to save thousands of dollars in interest by reducing your interest rate by a couple percentage points.

If you’re not able to get a lower rate, however, refinancing may not make sense, especially if it extends your repayment term, leading to higher costs.

Also keep in mind that if you only have federal student loans, refinancing with a private lender may not be your best option, since it means giving up government protections like income-driven repayment plans and Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

If you have federal loans, you may want to carefully explore your options, including whether to consolidate or refinance student loans.

When Should You Consider Refinancing Your Student Loans Again?

If you’ve already refinanced your loans with a private lender, here are some key reasons why you might consider refinancing again.

Your Financial Situation Has Changed

If you have experienced a significant improvement in your overall financial health since your last refinance, you may be eligible for a better loan rate and terms. In fact, some borrowers with limited or poor credit might refinance their loans multiple times as they build credit.

Interest Rates Have Come Down

Student loan rates are not only tied to your creditworthiness, but also current economic conditions. If market interest rates have dropped since your last refinance, you might be able to secure a lower rate student loan refinancing rate, reducing your overall interest payments. Even a small reduction in interest rates can lead to substantial savings over the life of the loan.

It’s a good idea to keep an eye on market trends and compare current rates to what you’re paying to determine if refinancing again makes financial sense.

You’re Looking for Different Loan Terms

Changing loan terms can also be a reason to refinance again. Perhaps your initial refinance resulted in a longer loan term to lower your monthly payments, but now you’re in a better financial position and can afford higher payments to pay off your loan faster.

Conversely, you might need to extend your loan term to lower monthly payments due to a change in financial circumstances. Just be aware that extending your repayment term can cost you more money in interest over time.

You Want to Remove or Add a Cosigner

If you originally refinanced with a cosigner and your financial situation has changed so that you no longer need them to qualify for favorable loan terms — or if the cosigner wants to be removed from the loan — refinancing allows you to take them off the loan. You’ll refinance in your own name only and the cosigner will not be included on the new loan.

On the other hand, if you want to add a cosigner with strong credit in order to qualify for a lower refinancing rate, you can do that as well. The new refinanced loan will be in both your names, and you will both be responsible for the loan. The cosigner legally agrees to repay your debt in the event that you can’t make the payments.

Recommended: Can You Refinance Student Loans With No Degree?

What Are Some Advantages of Refinancing Multiple Times?

Before you decide to refinance your student loan again, it’s important to know the advantages and disadvantages of this strategy. Here’s a look at some of the pros of refinancing student loans multiple times.

•   Save money: Refinancing multiple times can help you take advantage of lower interest rates as your financial situation improves or as market rates decrease. Each reduction in interest rates can save you money over the life of your loan. You can also shorten your loan term to pay off your debt faster, which can also reduce what you pay in interest

•   Better lender benefits: Refinancing with a different lender can potentially provide access to better benefits, such as more flexible repayment options and hardship programs if you are struggling to make your payments. Choosing a lender that offers these benefits can provide additional financial security.

•   Promotional offers: Some lenders will offer special promotions or discounts for refinancing with them.

What Are Some Disadvantages of Refinancing Multiple Times?

Refinancing multiple times also has potential drawbacks. Here are some to consider.

•   Credit impact: When you formally apply for a refinance, the lender runs a hard credit inquiry, which can negatively affect your credit score. While a single inquiry typically has a minimal impact, multiple inquiries in a short period can lower your credit score.

•   You could end up paying more: If you refinance to a longer repayment term, or even the same term every few years, you’re extending the amount of interest payments you make. This can keep you in debt longer and increase the total amount of interest you pay. If you refinance to a variable-rate student loan, the rate could also go up during the life of the loan.

•   Time and effort: The process of refinancing can be time-consuming, involving research and making comparisons between lenders, as well as paperwork and credit checks. Doing this multiple times may require a significant investment of time and effort. It might not always be worth it if you won’t save much money with your new loan.

Things to Look for When Refinancing

If you’re considering another refinance, it’s important to look at the following factors to ensure you’re making a smart financial decision.

•   Interest rates: Compare the offered interest rates with your current rate to ensure you’re getting a better deal. And make sure you have a credit score required to refinance to help you get those better rates.

•   Fixed vs. variable rates: Variable-rate loans have interest rates that can fluctuate based on market rates. The rate could climb if the rate or index it’s tied to goes up (and vice versa).

•   Loan terms: Evaluate the terms of the new loan, including the length of the loan and monthly payment amounts. Keep in mind that a longer term can lead to lower payments but increase the total cost of your loan in the end.

•   Fees and costs: Be aware of any fees associated with the refinance and calculate whether the savings outweigh these costs.

•   Lender reputation: Research the lender’s reputation and customer service to ensure you’re working with a reliable and supportive institution.

•   Borrower benefits: Consider the benefits offered by the lender, such as flexible repayment options and hardship programs.

Recommended: How Soon Can You Refinance Student Loans?

How to Decide If Refinancing Again is Right for You

To determine whether refinancing again is a wise option for your situation, consider whether it will save you money. If your financial situation has improved, and/or interest rates have dropped, refinancing may help you secure a lower rate and potentially save thousands of dollars in interest.

If you need to change the terms of your loan, refinancing could help you do that as well. Just be aware that if you’re extending your loan term to reduce your monthly payments, you’ll pay more overall over the life of the loan. And if you shorten the loan term, your monthly payments will be higher.

Finally, if adding a cosigner might help you get more favorable rates and terms for a loan, refinancing to add that person may be worthwhile.

Refinancing Your Student Loans With SoFi

Refinancing student loans multiple times can be a strategic move to save money and better manage your debt. While there’s no limit to how many times you can refinance, it’s important to carefully consider the costs, benefits, and your financial goals each time.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.


With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.

FAQ

Can I consolidate student loans more than once?

Typically, you can’t consolidate federal student loans into a Direct Consolidation Loan more than once. However, you may be able to do this if you have federal loans that were not included in a previous consolidation. Just keep in mind that federal consolidation does not lower your interest rate. With private student loans, refinancing is the way to consolidate your loans, and there is no limit on the number of times it can be done. Each refinance creates a new loan with new terms, so you’ll want to evaluate the benefits, interest rates, and any potential fees before deciding to refinance again.

How many times can you refinance a loan?

There is typically no set limit on how many times you can refinance a loan, including student loans. As long as you qualify, you can refinance your student loans as many times and as often as you’d like. Each refinance involves taking out a new loan to pay off the existing one, so it’s important to consider factors like interest rates, loan term, and any associated fees.

How many times can you take out student loans?

There’s no set limit on how many student loans you can take out, but the federal government and private lenders do impose lending limits based on dollar amount.

For federal student loans, there are annual and aggregate (lifetime) limits based on your degree level and dependency status. For private student loans, lenders set their own annual and aggregate student limits. Often, they will cover up to the annual cost of attendance minus other financial aid each year.

What happens if I refinance my student loans multiple times?

You can refinance your student loans as often as you like, as long as you qualify. There are pros and cons to refinancing multiple times. On the plus side, if your financial situation has improved, you may be able to get a lower interest rate through refinancing again and save money. You could also change the terms of your loan or remove or add a cosigner.

The main drawbacks of refinancing again include a negative impact to your credit, since multiple credit inquiries in a short period of time could temporarily lower your score, and paying more in interest if you refinance to a longer loan term.

Does refinancing student loans multiple times hurt my credit?

Refinancing student loans multiple times in a short period of time could temporarily lower your credit score by several points. This is because when you apply for refinancing, lenders typically do a hard credit check to see your credit report and debt repayment history. A hard credit check temporarily drops your score.


About the author

Julia Califano

Julia Califano

Julia Califano is an award-winning journalist who covers banking, small business, personal loans, student loans, and other money issues for SoFi. She has over 20 years of experience writing about personal finance and lifestyle topics. 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 FORFEIT YOUR ELIGIBILITY 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).

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.


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 .

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.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

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How to Pay Off Student Loans Fast: 6 Proven Strategies

If you’re dealing with student loans and making payments every month, you’d probably like to get them repaid sooner than later. Not only will paying off student loans quickly reduce your debt, it can also help you save money.

Fortunately, there are a number of strategies you can use to speed up repayment. Read on for tips that could help you pay off your student loans early so you can free up your budget and focus on other financial goals.

Key Points

•   Making extra payments toward student loan principal can reduce the amount of interest paid over the life of the loan and total payoff time.

•   Strategies for making additional student loan payments include starting a side hustle for extra income and using “found money” like bonuses, gifts, and tax refunds.

•   Employers may provide student loan repayment help for employees; there are also loan repayment assistance programs offered by some states and organizations.

•   The snowball debt repayment method can be used to pay off loans with smaller balances first and work up to larger balances.

•   Refinancing or consolidating loans may simplify payments and potentially lower payment amounts.

6 Effective Solutions to Student Loan Debt

There are different methods of paying off student loans fast — what works for you depends on your specific situation. You may want to try combining some of the following six approaches, for instance, or focus on just one.

1. Putting Extra Toward the Principal

One way to get ahead of student loan debt is to pay more than the monthly minimum owed. There are no prepayment penalties for federal or private student loans, so it can be an efficient method to shrink your debt.

As a bonus, when you put extra money toward the principal loan balance, you’re also reducing the total amount of interest you pay over the life of the loan.

If possible, put some additional funds toward your student loan payments each month. If that’s more than you can afford, you might consider increasing your payments every other month or quarterly.

Just make sure that the extra payments are applied to the loan principal. Contact your loan server and tell them to allocate your payment that way.

2. Making a Lump Sum Payment to Pay Off Student Loans Faster

Another option to consider is making a lump sum payment with any “found money” you have. This could be a tax refund, a monetary gift you get for a birthday or other occasion, or a bonus at work. Use that windfall to double down on your debt.

It may also be a good time to review your spending habits and see where you might be able to find some extra cash. Even minor adjustments like eating out a little less frequently or giving up one of the streaming services you pay for but don’t often use could add up.

When you identify discretionary expenses to cut back, you can add the money you save to your student loan payments.

3. Finding a Side Hustle

Creating an additional source of income and putting those funds toward your debt could also help you pay off your student loans faster.

For example, if you’re crafty, you could try selling your creations on an online marketplace. If you’re a photographer, writer, or editor, you could look for a freelance gig. Or you could do tutoring or dogsitting on evenings and weekends. Once you get your side hustle going, the additional income can be regularly dedicated toward extra student loan payments.

Recommended: 15 Low-Cost Side Hustles

4. Getting Help Paying Off Your Loan

You may be able to speed up student loan repayment with a little help from your employer, your state, or by doing volunteer work.

Getting help from your employer. Some employers offer a benefit called loan repayment assistance, in which they help employees repay their student loans. The employer might contribute up to a certain amount, and the employee may have to work for the company for a specific period of time to be eligible.

Other employers have programs that incentivize student loan repayment. For example, when an employee makes their regular monthly student loan payment, an employer can send an additional contribution toward their loans. The employee’s student loan gets paid off faster, and they save money on interest.

Seeking out Loan Repayment Assistance Programs.. If you’re eligible, a Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP) can provide funds to help you lower your student loan payments. Some states, organizations, and companies may offer LRAPs, especially if you work in certain fields like health care or education. LRAPs often include a requirement that you work in your eligible job for a certain number of years, typically in public service.

Volunteering. Some volunteer opportunities might help ease your student loan debt. For example, skills-based volunteers and frontline workers for the Shared Harvest Fund, a mission-driven organization that’s dedicated to wellness and service, can get help paying for their student loans if they match up with a nonprofit organization that needs their talents.

5. Rolling Out the Debt Snowball Method

There are specific debt repayment methods you can consider as well, including the debt snowball method. Here’s how that works.

First, take a look at your loans and focus on the balances. While you should be making at least the minimum monthly payment on all your loans, the debt snowball method has you put any additional money toward the loan with the smallest balance first.

Once that loan is paid off, you use the money you were paying on the old loan payment amount and roll it over to the next smallest debt. The idea is to continue using this method until all of your loans are paid off. Each time you pay off a loan, it feels like a win that helps you see the progress you’re making.

6. Refinancing or Consolidating Loans

With a refinance student loans, you pay off your existing loans with a new loan from a private lender. Ideally, the new loan will have a lower interest rate, which could lower your monthly payments, or more favorable loan terms.

To see how much refinancing might save you, you can crunch the numbers with a student loan refinancing calculator.

It’s important to be aware that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal benefits like income-driven repayment plans and federal deferment.

If you have federal student loans, you could consolidate them into a Direct Consolidation Loan, with one monthly payment. The new, fixed interest rate will be the weighted average of your existing interest rates rounded up to the nearest one-eighth of a percentage point.

Consolidation can lower your monthly payment by giving you up to 30 years to repay your loans, but a longer term means more payments and more interest. That’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering student loan consolidation vs. refinancing.

The Takeaway

There are several methods you can use to pay off student loans quickly, including making extra payments toward the loan principal, earning extra income with a side hustle, and loan repayment assistance programs. One or more of these strategies could be the ticket to chipping away at your student debt faster.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.


With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.

See if you prequalify with SoFi in just two minutes.

FAQ

What’s the fastest way to pay off student loans?

One of the fastest ways to pay off student loans is to put extra money toward the principal balance on your student loans whenever you can. Not only will this help you reduce the total principal you owe, it will also save you money on the total amount of interest you pay over the life of the loan.

Is it smart to pay off student loans early?

Paying off student loans early can be smart. Paying down your debt faster can help you save money overall and reduce the total amount of interest you’ll pay over the life of the loans. Paying off your loans quickly can also allow you to put more money toward your other financial goals, such as a downpayment on a house or saving for retirement.

How can I find extra money to pay down student loans?

You can find extra money to pay down student loans by using your tax refund or a bonus you get at work and applying those funds to your student loan debt. You could also consider taking on a side hustle to earn extra income to put toward your loan payments.

What are some solutions to student loan debt besides refinancing?

Other solutions to reducing student loan debt include paying more than a minimum balance on your student loans whenever you can and directing that money to the loan principal; making a lump sum payment with any “found money” you get, such as a tax refund or a bonus at work; and checking to see if your employer or state offers student loan repayment assistance.

Should I refinance or pay off student loans faster?

Whether you choose to refinance or pay off your student loans faster is up to you — each borrower should make a decision based on their own financial situation. That said, it is possible to do both. Refinancing may help you pay off your student loans faster if you qualify for a lower interest rate, which can lower your monthly payments, or if you shorten your loan term. Just be aware that a shorter term will likely make your monthly loan payments bigger.


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 FORFEIT YOUR ELIGIBILITY 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).

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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.


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.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

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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What Kind of Emergency Funding Is Available for College Students?

What Kind of Emergency Funding Is Available for College Students?

Regardless of your age and life stage, unexpected bills can derail someone’s finances. Unforeseen events can be particularly challenging for college students who don’t have much wiggle room in their budgets.

If you’re a student who’s experiencing financial hardship — or you’re just worried about how to prepare for a rainy day — be assured that help is available to students in need. Emergency financial aid grants are designed to keep students in college through financial setbacks.

We’ll review your options, and the pros and cons of each, so you can feel ready to take on any situation.

Key Points

•   Emergency grants for college students provide financial relief for unexpected expenses like medical treatments, job loss, or technology replacement.

•   Multiple emergency grant programs remain available to support college students facing sudden financial challenges, even though the federal HEERF program has ended.

•   Resources like Achieve Atlanta, UNCF, Scholarship America, and various colleges provide targeted financial aid, with grants typically ranging from $500 to $1,000 to help students stay enrolled during times of hardship.

•   Colleges and universities may offer additional emergency support such as tuition assistance, food pantries, and temporary housing.

•   Private student loans are available if federal aid and emergency grants are insufficient to cover all educational expenses.

Why You Might Urgently Need More Money as a Student

Students are familiar with seeking financial aid to help pay for tuition, school supplies, and other educational costs. However, some expenses aren’t covered by scholarships and student loans.

Emergency financial aid for college students can help cover the cost of:

•   Medical treatments

•   Job loss

•   Rent increases

•   Financial hardship due to COVID-19

•   Replacement technology, such as a laptop or phone

•   Car repairs

•   Loss of athletic scholarship due to injury

•   Loss of child care services

Some of these costs are fairly common, while others affect only a small percentage of students. The common thread: They’re all unpredictable and financially challenging.

Recommended: TEACH Grant: Defined, Explained, and Pros and Cons

Emergency Grants Available for College Students

Several emergency grant programs are available to assist college students facing unexpected financial hardships. While the federal Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) has concluded, numerous institutions and organizations continue to offer support, including:

•   Achieve Atlanta Emergency Grants: Provides financial assistance to students experiencing unforeseen emergencies that could impact their ability to remain enrolled in school.

•   UNCF Emergency Student Aid: Offers “just-in-time” grants up to $1,000 for students at risk of dropping out due to financial hardships like medical bills or car repairs.

•   Scholarship America Emergency Aid: Administers emergency financial assistance programs in partnership with various organizations to support students facing financial barriers.

•   College Success Foundation Emergency Fund: Provides emergency grants up to $500 per academic year to help students overcome unexpected financial challenges.

•   Institution-Specific Programs: Many colleges and universities, such as Chattahoochee Technical College and Kennesaw State University, offer emergency assistance funds to support students dealing with unforeseen financial difficulties.

In addition to the above opportunities, students are encouraged to contact their school’s financial aid office or student affairs department to inquire about available emergency grant programs and application procedures.

Recommended: Grants for College — Find Free Money for Students

Financial Support From Your College

Other emergency college grants and support programs can be discovered through your school. These include:

Emergency Tuition Assistance

Emergency tuition assistance is designed to help students stay enrolled in school when they’re suddenly unable to cover the cost of attendance. Assistance might be in the form of a grant, scholarship, voucher, or other relief.

If you’re at risk of dropping out of school because an emergency is making it hard to pay your school bills, ask your financial aid office about emergency tuition assistance.

Emergency Food Options

Inflation is making it harder for everyone to pay for groceries. If you’re experiencing food insecurity, ask your student affairs office about campus food pantries.
This resource can offer non-perishable goods, like dry pasta, legumes, and canned foods, as well as fresh produce and even basic toiletries.

Emergency Housing

Although not many schools have dedicated emergency housing options for their students, it doesn’t hurt to ask. Reach out to your school’s student affairs department to inquire about short-term emergency housing programs that might be available.

If your school doesn’t offer emergency housing, they might point you to external resources, such as local nonprofits and community groups.

Recommended: What Is the Cost of Attendance in College?

Private Student Loans

If you’ve already maximized the federal undergraduate loans or graduate loans you’re eligible for, a private student loan is an alternative financing option. Private student loans are offered by private lenders, like banks, credit unions, and online financial institutions.

This type of student loan can cover an amount up to the certified cost of attendance, minus the financial aid you’ve already received. Private loans can have fixed or variable interest rates, with rates and terms varying by lender. Keep in mind, though, that private student loans don’t have the same borrower benefits as federal student loans, like loan forgiveness and income-driven repayment, so tread carefully.

Recommended: A Complete Guide to Private Student Loans

The Takeaway

If you’re a student who’s struggling financially due to an unexpected expense or event, help is available. Reach out to your school affairs or financial aid office, explain your situation, and learn about emergency financial aid grants.

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.

FAQ

What are emergency grants for college students

Emergency grants are short-term financial assistance provided to college students facing unexpected expenses that may disrupt their education, such as medical bills, housing insecurity, food shortages, or transportation issues. These grants typically do not need to be repaid.

Who is eligible for emergency grants?

Eligibility varies by program, but most emergency grants are available to currently enrolled students who demonstrate financial hardship due to unforeseen circumstances. Some may require proof of need or enrollment status.

Where can students apply for emergency grants?

Students can apply through their college’s financial aid office or student support services. National organizations like the UNCF, Achieve Atlanta, and Scholarship America also offer emergency grants that students can apply for online.


Photo credit: iStock/photo

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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.


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.

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.

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What Is the Average Amount of Student Debt for College Graduates in 2025?

The average student loan debt for a graduate with a bachelor’s degree is $35,530, according to the latest data from the Education Data Initiative (EDI).

The specific amount of student loan debt a borrower has depends on factors like the type of school they attended, whether or not they pursued an advanced degree, and any scholarships they may have received.

Read on for more details about the average student loan debt after graduation and information about repaying student loans.

Key Points

•   The average student loan debt for a bachelor’s degree graduate is $35,530.

•   Graduates of public four-year colleges owe $31,960; those who attend private nonprofit colleges owe $39,510; and grads of private for-profit schools owe $47,730.

•   Graduate students borrow more, averaging $17,240 a year in federal loans, compared to undergraduates, who averaged $3,900.

•   Average monthly student loan payments range from $200 to $299, but can vary by loan amount, interest rate, and repayment plan.

•   Student loan repayment plans include Standard, Graduated, Extended, and Income-Driven Plans, each with different terms and payment structures.

Average Student Loan Debt After College

As noted, the latest data from the Education Data Initiative found that the average student debt after four years of college was $35,530 per borrower. Forty-four percent of borrowers with undergraduate and graduate degrees have student loan debt, according to the EDI.

As of May 2025, the total amount of student loan debt in the U.S. was approximately $1.77 trillion. According to EDI, 42.7 million borrowers have student loan debt.

How Student Loan Debt Has Changed Over the Last Decade

It’s no secret that college is expensive and has only gotten more costly in the last decade or so. According to data compiled by U.S. News & World Report, the cost of attending in-state public universities increased by nearly 133% from 2005 to 2025.

Student loan debt statistics are just as eye-opening. From 2014 to 2024, total outstanding student loan debt grew from $1.24 trillion to $1.77 trillion in order to cover those costs. This student loan debt is taking a financial toll on graduating students, potentially affecting their credit and home-buying prospects, among other things.

Student Loan Debt at Public vs. Private Colleges

According to the latest information from the Education Data Initiative, graduates of public four-year institutions had an average college debt of $35,530, compared to private, nonprofit school borrowers, who graduated with an average debt of $39,510.

Those who attended four-year private for-profit colleges had an average debt of $47,730. Students at for-profit schools tend to take out more in student loans.

Undergraduate vs. Graduate Student Loan Debt

There are also some significant differences in the student loan debt of undergraduate and graduate students. The College Board’s annual survey of student aid trends found that, on average, undergraduates took out $3,900 in federal student loans in the 2023-2024 school year. That same year, graduate students took out $17,240 in federal loans.

There are about 6.8 million people under the age of 24 with student loan debt. As a group, they owe just over $96.3 billion, according to Federal Student Aid, an office of the U.S. Department of Education.

Student Loan Debt by State: How Does It Compare?

Federal student loan debt totals average approximately $29.9 billion per state (including the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico), according to the Education Data Initiative.

The latest data from EDI show that the District of Columbia has the highest student loan debt, and North Dakota has the lowest — as well as the distinction of being the only state in which the average student debt ($29,647 per borrower) is less than $30,000.

These are the 10 states with the highest average student loan debt per borrower:

•   District of Columbia: $54,795

•   Maryland: $43,692

•   Georgia: $42,026

•   Virginia: $40,137

•   Florida: $39,262

•   Illinois: $39,055

•   South Carolina: $38,770

•   North Carolina: $38,695

•   New York: $38,690

•   Delaware: $38,683

The states with the lowest average student loan debt per borrower are:

•   Kansas: $33,119

•   Wisconsin: $32,628

•   Nebraska: $32,377

•   West Virginia: $32,358

•   Oklahoma: $32,103

•   Wyoming: $31,503

•   Puerto Rico: $32,022

•   South Dakota: $30,928

•   Iowa: $30,925

•   North Dakota: $29,647

What’s the Average Monthly Student Loan Payment?

Borrowers’ monthly student loan payment can vary depending on the amount of debt they carry — the typical borrower with a bachelor’s degree owes $35,530 after four years of college — and the type of repayment plan they choose. According to the latest data from the Federal Reserve, typical monthly payments for student loans can range from $200 to $299.

How Long It Takes to Pay Off Student Loans

The standard amount of time it takes to pay off federal student loans is 10 years, but repayment terms can range as long as 20 or 25 years, depending on the repayment plan a borrower opts for.

Options for student loan repayment plans include:

•   Standard Repayment Plan: This gives you 10 years to pay off your loans, and you pay a fixed amount each month. You may pay less overall under this plan because of the relatively short repayment term.

•   Graduated Repayment Plan: Borrowers who choose this plan pay lower monthly payments at the beginning, and the payments gradually increase at two-year intervals. The repayment term is 10 years (30 years for those with a Direct Consolidation Loan).

•   Extended Repayment Plan: Borrowers who owe more than $30,000 in federal student loans may be eligible for this plan. If you qualify, you can extend your loan term up to 25 years, which could make your monthly payments smaller. However, you may pay more in interest overall.

•   Income-driven Repayment (IDR) Plans: These plans base borrowers’ monthly loan payments on their discretionary income and family size. For many borrowers, this means their payments will be lower. The repayment terms for those on income-driven plans is 20 to 25 years. At the end of that time, any remaining balance you owe on your loans may be forgiven.

In general, the sooner a borrower pays off their student loans, the more they may save in the long run because they won’t be accruing interest for as long.

The interest rate on student loans also affects a borrower’s payments. If your student loan interest rate is higher than you’d like, you might want to consider student loan refinancing to see if you can qualify for a lower interest rate or more favorable terms.

Another option is loan consolidation. If you have federal student loans, a Direct Consolidation Loan allows you to combine them into one single loan. Although this may not save you money, it could simplify your payments since you’ll have just one bill to pay.

You can consider the pros and cons of student loan consolidation vs refinancing to determine if either option is right for you.

Refinancing Student Loans With SoFi

Those in search of options to manage student loan payments might consider student loan refinancing. This process involves replacing your current student loans with a new loan from a private lender. Ideally, you may qualify for a lower interest rate.

Borrowers who refinance may also be able to adjust their repayment term. Extending the term could lower your monthly payments, but you might also end up paying more over the life of the loan.

It’s possible to refinance both private and federal student loans. Just be aware that refinancing federal loans with a private lender means losing access to federal benefits like income-based repayment.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.


With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.

FAQ

What is the average student debt after college in 2025?

The average student loan debt after college for a borrower with a bachelor’s degree is $35,530. On average, 20% of all U.S.adults with undergraduate degrees have student loan debt.

Is $50,000 more than the average student debt after college?

Yes, $50,000 is a significant amount of student loan debt. According to data from the Education Data Initiative, the average student loan debt in the U.S. for an undergraduate is $35,530.

How many U.S. borrowers have student loan debt in 2025?

In the U.S., 42.7 million borrowers have student loan debt, according to the Education Data Initiative.

What is the average someone pays a month for student loans?

The average monthly student loan payment is approximately $200 to $299, according to the latest date from the Federal Reserve. However, the amount a borrower pays per month will vary based on factors like their total loan amount, their interest rate, and the repayment plan they selected.

What is the total student loan debt in the U.S. in 2025?

The total amount of student loan debt in the U.S. is approximately $1.77 trillion, as of May 2025, according to the Education Data Initiative.

How long does it take most borrowers to pay off student loans in 2025?

The time it takes borrowers to pay off their federal student loans typically ranges from 10 to 25 years, depending on their financial situation and the repayment plan they’re on. The repayment terms for private student loans vary.

What is the average amount of student debt for college graduates today?

The average amount of student debt for college graduates with a bachelor’s degree today is $35,530, according to the Education Date Initiative. Borrowers who graduated from public four-year colleges have $31,960 in student debt; those who attend private nonprofit colleges owe $39,510; and graduates of private for-profit schools owe $47,730 in debt.


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 FORFEIT YOUR ELIGIBILITY 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).

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.


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.

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.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

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A Guide to Unclaimed Scholarships and Grants

It’s estimated that close to $100 million in scholarships go unclaimed each year and $2 billion in student grants go unclaimed. Typically, the money is not awarded due to lack of applicants. This is good news for students — as those that are willing to put in the time to search for scholarships and grants should be able to find at least a few to help pay their way through college.

The beauty of scholarships and grants is that you almost never need to pay them back. Who doesn’t love gifts? But acquiring them will take at least a little effort.

Keep reading to learn more on unclaimed scholarships and grants, including where to find them, types of aid you may qualify for, and why so many scholarships go unclaimed each year.

Key Points

•   Nearly $100 million in scholarships and $2 billion in student grants go unclaimed annually, often due to a lack of applicants.

•   Scholarships and grants do not typically require repayment, acting as financial gifts for education.

•   Various methods exist to find unclaimed scholarships, including using scholarship search engines, consulting with educational institutions, and checking with local businesses and organizations.

•   Financial aid can be either need-based, determined by the Student Aid Index, or merit-based, which considers academic or other achievements.

•   Unusual scholarships with specific criteria may go unclaimed due to a lack of eligible applicants.

Where to Find Unclaimed Scholarships

You don’t have to be a 4.0 student or a star athlete to receive scholarships. In fact, the average high school student is eligible for 50-100 different types of scholarships each year. But, scholarships aren’t just going to come to you. You have to be the one to put in the work to find scholarships you qualify for and apply for them.

One of the best ways to find scholarships you are eligible for is through a scholarship search. Scholarship searches are offered by a variety of companies and allow you to filter the scholarships based on your specific qualifications, including your state, area of study, background, ethnicity, and more. Scholarship searches are one of the quickest ways to find quality scholarships throughout the country.

Other ways to find unclaimed scholarships include asking your specific college or university what they offer, using the library’s recommendation section, reaching out to businesses in your field of study, speaking to your high school counselor, and asking religious organizations if they offer scholarships.

Regardless of which methods you use to find scholarships nobody applies for, the reality is they are out there waiting for students to apply for and claim them.

Recommended: Search Grants and Scholarships by State

Two Types of Aid of Financial Aid

Financial aid can be need-based or merit-based.

Need-Based Aid

Federal need-based aid is determined by the Student Aid Index, or SAI (formerly called the Expected Family Contribution, or EFC) as calculated by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®).

The Pell Grant, the Department of Education’s biggest grant program, is geared toward students who demonstrate significant financial need, but the total cost of attendance at a particular college also plays a role. The maximum Pell Grant amount for the 2025-26 academic year is $7,395.

Any student who could use college financial aid has nothing to lose by filling out the FAFSA. And even if you are not eligible for federal aid, realize that most states and schools use FAFSA information to award nonfederal aid, too.

One way to find nonfederal financial aid is to fill out the CSS Profile, which determines eligibility for institutional awards and grants. The CSS Profile awards billions in nonfederal aid to college students each year and can be a great way to find unclaimed scholarships.

While scholarships and grants are ideal because they do not need to be repaid, many students may still need to explore federal loan options, such as an unsubsidized loan, to cover remaining college expenses. Unlike scholarships, loans must be repaid with interest, so it’s important to understand all your options before borrowing.

Recommended: How to Complete the FAFSA

Merit Aid

Merit scholarships are not based on financial need. They are awarded by colleges, employers, individuals, businesses, nonprofits, states, religious groups, and professional or social organizations to students who demonstrate academic or athletic achievement. While many people are aware of this, merit aid can also be based on other factors. These may include community involvement, dedication to a particular field of study, race, gender, teacher recommendations, and more.

So who is the biggest source of “free money?” Colleges, according to a recent College Board Trends in Student Aid Report. The U.S. Department of Education awards $46 billion annually in scholarships, and thanks to competition to attract students, nearly every college and university in the country offers merit-based aid in some form.

To find unclaimed scholarships, you could start by thinking about all the ways you have, well, merit — making lists of opportunities and eligibility criteria, and pursuing only the scholarships you’re best qualified for.

Why Would Any Scholarships Go Unclaimed?

So is it true there are obscure scholarships left unclaimed? There is no database that can give precise answers, but it makes sense that when specific parameters exist around a particular scholarship, fewer students will qualify.

For example, scholarships exist for North Korean refugees who are permanently living in the United States. Applicants must have been born in North Korea or the child of someone born in North Korea.

Let’s say you don’t fit those parameters. Other unusual opportunities include the following:

•   If you dazzle your friends with your ability to make prom outfits using only duct tape, then you could win a $15,000 Stuck at Prom scholarship. Seriously.

•   Or maybe you have the best plan ever to survive the zombie apocalypse. If so, you could apply for the Zombie Apocalypse Scholarship offered by Unigo ($2,000).

•   If you live in the Phoenix area and you’re a tall graduating senior, you could be interviewed and measured for the chance to gain all of $250 through the CATS Tall Club program.

While you may not qualify for any of the above-mentioned scholarships, these are just examples of how many are actually out there. You may be surprised at what you find (and what you do actually qualify for!) when conducting your search.

Recommended: Scholarship Opportunities for High School Seniors

Keeping an Eye Out for Scholarship Scams

Plenty of scholarship and grant money for college is out there waiting to be claimed. Unfortunately, though, there are also financial aid scams, including scholarships that aren’t legitimate. The Department of Education offers tips to protect yourself, including:

•   Know that you don’t need to pay to find scholarships or any other form of financial aid.

•   Check information about scholarship offers at a public library and/or online.

•   Talk to the financial aid department at your college of choice to verify legitimacy.

Also, before students begin a search, they may want to be aware of “scholarships” that are actually sweepstakes because their information may be sold to third parties.

The Takeaway

Finding unclaimed scholarships and grants is the ideal way to fund college because this money does not need to be repaid. To cover all the expenses of college, however, many students will then need to take out federal and/or 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.


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

FAQ

Where can students find unclaimed scholarships?

Students can discover unclaimed scholarships by using scholarship search engines, consulting with their college’s financial aid office, checking with local businesses and organizations, and reaching out to religious or community groups.

Why do some scholarships go unclaimed?

Some scholarships go unclaimed due to highly specific eligibility criteria, lack of awareness among potential applicants, or misconceptions about the application process.

How much scholarship and grant money goes unclaimed each year?

Approximately $100 million in scholarships and $2 billion in student grants go unclaimed annually, often due to a lack of applicants.


SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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.


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.

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.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

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