Private Educational Loans

U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents, and International Students

After exploring federal funding, some students and families may be interested in private loan options, either instead of, or as a supplement to, federal loans. Private loans may be available to students who have no adverse credit history and have a credit-worthy co-signer. Listed below is just a sample of private loan programs with competitive interest rates, varied repayment and deferment provisions, and proven records of service. We encourage parents and students who seek private long-term financing to do some "comparison shopping" in order find the best terms for their particular financial circumstances.

Wells Fargo Collegiate Loan
800-658-3567 or visit www.wellsfargo.com/student/loans/undergrad/collegiate.

Sallie Mae Smart Option Loan
800-695-3317 or visit www.salliemae.com.

U.S. Bank No Fee Loan
800-242-1200 or visit www.usbank.com/nofeeapp.

* International students: Most private loan lenders will require that you have a U.S. co-signer.

Other Financing Options
Other financing options include a home equity line of credit, which may have tax benefits for some families, or another type of collateralized loan. You may want to discuss these with your financial adviser.