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Private Student Loans
Seriously Simple. Seriously Supportive.
You are not a number. Get the flexibility, low rates, and security you need, along with the personal guidance you deserve.
Fixed Interest Rates
A cosigner could lower your rate
Want a lower interest rate? Cosigned student loans tend to have lower interest rates because cosigners usually have a longer credit history. Plus, students are 5X more likely to be approved with a cosigner.
Cosigner
3.69%APR
Independent
5.39%APR
These are our lowest fixed interest starting rates and contain our 0.25% Auto Pay discount from a checking or savings account. Some borrowers may see higher rates based on their credit.
See what people say about us
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The Best Rates
100% Rate Match Guarantee
We’ll match any competitor rate and give you a
once your rate match is finalized.
Call us today to get a rate match (888) 601-2801.
Expert Help
Client Happiness is at the heart of Earnest
Questions or concerns? Our in-house Client Happiness team has the power to solve your problems and set you up for success. We can even assist you in submitting your application over the phone.
You can reach us via email and web chat; if you prefer to speak to a real person call between 5 am - 5 pm PST, Monday-Friday, at (888) 601-2801.
Find the best loan for you
Undergrad
Low-rate loans for undergraduates.
Grad School
Low-rate loans for grad school students.
MBA
Low-rate loans for business school students.
Medical School
Low-rate loans for healthcare professionals.
Law School
Low-rate loans for law school students.
Cosigned
Low-rate loans for cosigners and parents.
Low Rates
See the latest Variable and Fixed rates.
2-Min Eligibility Check
Check if Earnest is right for you.
Benefits
Financial responsibility meets college funding
Radically-Flexible Terms
Pick your payment from 4 options. Adjust your term down to the month for an ideal loan.
50% Longer Grace Period
For students who need time to start payments, we give
vs. the standard 6 months.
Save On Interest
With
and lower your chances of accidentally missing a payment.
Get Help
A helping hand for cosigners
Cosigning isn’t always easy, unless it’s with Earnest. Our cosigners have access to expert help, a convenient mobile application and secure end-to-end encryption to protect their financial information.
Easily start the application for a student and share with a single tap of a button
Mobile-friendly cosigner invitation if your student starts the application first
Email and SMS updates to keep you informed about where you are in the application process
Compare
The right partner matters
See why Earnest is the top choice.
Feature comparison current as of March 1, 2023
Questions?
Get the FAQs on Private Student Loans
Have more questions?
Visit the Help Center
Am I a good fit for an Earnest private student loan?
Before applying for private student loans with Earnest, use this checklist to see if you’re ready. View full eligibility details.
I’ve factored in contributions from my family, such as 529 plans (aka money already designated for your education).
I’ve applied for grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities (aka money you don’t have to pay back).
I’ve filled out the FAFSA® to maximize my Federal financial aid (aka money you borrow that comes with repayment protections).
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*Earnest’s Loan Cost Examples: These examples provide estimates based on principal and Interest payments beginning immediately upon loan disbursement. Variable APR: A $10,000 loan with a 15-year term (180 monthly payments of $118.28) and a 11.69% APR would result in a total estimated payment amount of $21,290.40. For a variable loan, after your starting rate is set, your rate will then vary with the market. Fixed APR: A $10,000 loan with a 15-year term (180 monthly payments of $126.82) and a 13.03% APR would result in a total estimated payment amount of $22,827.79.
These examples provide estimates based on interest only payments while in school. Variable APR: A $10,000 loan with a 15-year term (180 monthly payments of $118.28) and a 11.69% APR would result in a total estimated payment amount of $26,173.03. For a variable loan, after your starting rate is set, your rate will then vary with the market. Fixed APR: A $10,000 loan with a 15-year term (180 monthly payments of $126.82) and a 13.03% APR would result in a total estimated payment amount of $28,186.67. Your actual repayment terms may vary. Other repayment options are available.
These examples provide estimates based on fixed $25 payments while in school. Variable APR: A $10,000 loan with a 15-year term (180 monthly payments of $162.65) and a 11.69% APR would result in a total estimated payment amount of $30,584.74. For a variable loan, after your starting rate is set, your rate will then vary with the market. Fixed APR: A $10,000 loan with a 15-year term (180 monthly payments of $181.27) and a 13.03% APR would result in a total estimated payment amount of $33,915.55. Your actual repayment terms may vary. Other repayment options are available.
These examples provide estimates based on deferred payments. Variable APR: A $10,000 loan with a 15-year term (180 monthly payments of $174.79) and a 11.69% APR would result in a total estimated payment amount of $31,462.16. For a variable loan, after your starting rate is set, your rate will then vary with the market. Fixed APR: A $10,000 loan with a 15-year term (180 monthly payments of $193.75) and a 13.03% APR would result in a total estimated payment amount of $34,874.28. Your actual repayment terms may vary. Other repayment options are available. It is important to note that the 0.25% Auto Pay discount is not available while loan payments are deferred.
SLR making principal and Interest payments beginning immediately upon loan disbursement. Variable APR: A $10,000 loan with a 20-year term (240 monthly payments of $107.96) and a 11.69% APR would result in a total estimated payment amount of $25,909.23. For a variable loan, after your starting rate is set, your rate will then vary with the market. Fixed APR: A $10,000 loan with a 20-year term (240 monthly payments of $117.37) and a 13.03% APR would result in a total estimated payment amount of $28,169.13.