There are many ways to get the funds you need, but it's vital that before applying for private student loans. It's recommended to use a 3-step approach which includes looking at other sources of financial aid as well! You may be surprised to learn that there are scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities available for people that meet specific qualifications. The best time to apply for federal student loans (FAFSA) is while you're in school. Unsubsidized loan programs don't require a credit check or an additional person as a co-signer, and they offer low-interest rates that will help out if your payment history has been spotty up until this point! Consider asking a parent to look at federal student loans. The Parent PLUS loan is issued directly to parents or guardians of current students. The student loan is often the best option for families who have differences between their total cost of attendance and what's covered by Step 1-3. A private lender will review your financial portfolio to determine if you qualify, but be aware that they can charge high-interest rates. There are a lot of different ways to get student loan money. The U.S Department of Education has all the information about federal programs and how they work compared to private options! The key to getting the best private student loans is knowing your options and finding one that will work for you. For example, if most students with low-interest rates prefer more straightforward repayment plans, this becomes an essential factor in choosing which bank or lender offers what type of service! Many private lenders offer education loans, but before you look at them, make sure all your options with the federal government have been explored. After you've exhausted all these resources, you should look with private financial institutions, such as credit unions, banks, and online lenders.