Private Student Loans

Student loans with zero fees and maximum support

Flexible loan terms, low rates, and help whenever you need it


Let’s get started

Check your eligibility. No credit impact.

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I (my student) is earning this degree
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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.

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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 6:00 am - 5:00 pm PT, Monday - Friday, at (888) 601-2801.

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Benefits

Financial responsibility meets college funding

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Flexible terms

4 repayment options and loan terms ranging from 5-15 years*. So your loan works for your life, not the other way around.

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Longer grace period

Get

after graduation to start payments vs. most lenders’ 6 months— more breathing room after graduation.

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Save on interest

, plus an extra 0.25% for returning borrowers. Pay less over the life of your loan.

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

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Compare

The right partner matters

See why Earnest is the top choice.

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Eligibility Check
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Zero Fees
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9-month Grace Period
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Choice of Loan Terms
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Skip 1 Payment a Year
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Feature comparison current as of February 14, 2024

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).

Ready to apply? Here’s how it works.

step 1

Enter your information

Basic info from you takes under 15 minutes with instant decisions for most.

step 2

Choose your loan options

View rates and select your loan length and repayment plan before signing.

step 3

Get your funds

We'll send details to your school for certification, then you're all set.

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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.

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