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The average interest rate on 10-year fixed-rate private student loans moved up last week. For many borrowers, that means rates continue to be low enough to make private student loans a decent option, especially if you have good credit.
From January 9 to January 14, the average fixed interest rate on a 10-year private student loan was 7.41% for borrowers with a credit score of 720 or higher who prequalified on Credible.com’s student loan marketplace. On a five-year variable-rate loan, the average interest rate was 8.90% among the same population, according to Credible.com.
Related: Best Private Student Loans
Fixed-rate Loans
The average fixed rate on 10-year loans last week climbed by 0.34% to 7.41%. The week prior, the average stood at 7.07%.
Borrowers in the market for a private student loan now can receive a higher rate than they would have at this time last year. At this time last year, the average fixed rate on a 10-year loan was 6.68%, 0.73% lower than today’s rate.
If you were to finance $20,000 in student loans at today’s average fixed rate, you’d pay around $236 per month and approximately $8,376 in total interest over 10 years, according to Forbes Advisor’s student loan calculator.
Variable-rate Loans
Last week, rates on variable five-year student loans moved up, reaching 8.90% from 8.46% the week prior.
In contrast to fixed rates, variable interest rates fluctuate over the course of a loan term. Variable rates may start lower than fixed rates, especially during periods when rates are low overall, but they can rise over time.
Private lenders often offer borrowers the option to choose between fixed and variable interest rates. Fixed rates may be the safer bet for the average student, but if your income is stable and you plan to pay off your loan quickly, it could be beneficial to choose a variable loan.
Let’s say you financed a $20,000 five-year loan with a variable interest rate of 8.90%. You’d pay about $414 on average per month. You’d pay approximately $4,852 in total interest over the life of the loan. Keep in mind that since the interest is variable, it could fluctuate up or down from month to month.
Related: How To Get A Private Student Loan
Shopping for Private Student Loans
When comparing private student loan options, take a close look at the overall cost of the loan. This includes the interest rate and fees. It’s also important to consider the type of help the lender offers if you can’t afford your payments.
Keep in mind that the best rates are only available to those with good or excellent credit.
Experts generally recommend that you borrow no more than what you’ll earn in your first year out of college. While some lenders cap the amount of money you can borrow each year, others don’t. When comparing loans, figure out how the loan will be disbursed and what costs it covers.
Getting a Private Student Loan
If you reach the annual borrowing limits for federal student loans or if you’re otherwise ineligible for them, private student loans may be a good choice. But consider a federal student loan as your first option since the interest rates are typically lower. You’ll also receive more liberal repayment and forgiveness options with federal student loans.
Getting a private student loan generally involves applying directly through a non-federal lender, such as a bank, credit union or online entity. You may also be able to get a private student loan through a nonprofit organization, state agency or college.
It’s important to note that you’ll need a qualified co-signer if you have limited credit history, as undergraduates often do.
When applying for a private student loan, take into consideration the following:
- Your qualifications. Private student loans are credit-based. Lenders typically require a credit score in the higher 600s. This is where having a co-signer can be particularly beneficial.
- Where to apply. You can apply directly on the lender’s website, via mail or over the phone.
- Your options. Look at what each lender offers and compare the interest rate, term, future monthly payment, origination fee and late fee. Also, check to see if the lender offers a co-signer release so that the co-borrower can eventually come off of the loan.
How Your Interest Rate Is Determined
The rate you receive depends on whether you’re getting a fixed or variable loan. Rates, in part, are based on your creditworthiness—those with higher credit scores often get the lowest rates. But your rate is based on other factors as well. Credit history, income and even the degree you’re working on and your career can play a part.
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