Flickr user Alister Babb
If you are applying to college, you are sure to be looking for advice about student loans. While there is plenty of really good advice out there, we’ve come across some bad advice that you would do best to avoid.
Filing the FAFSA is a waste of time if your family income is above average
Filing the FAFSA is necessary for most types of financial aid, including some types that are not based on financial need. It is advisable for every college applicant to file the FAFSA, irrespective of family income.
You should accept all the financial aid that is offered to you
Colleges put together a financial aid package for you based on the information you provide on the FAFSA. If, after filing the application, your financial circumstances change and you do not need to borrow the full amount, you can opt to take a smaller loan. In general, you should never borrow more than you need.
Your financial package is final
No, it isn’t. You can write to the college’s financial aid office and explain your circumstances, whether you are appealing for more funds, or less. If a college can accommodate your request, they will.
Use College Raptor’s free Student Loan Finder to compare lenders and interest rates side by side!
| Lender | Rates (APR) | Eligibility | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
5.50%-16.12%* Variable
3.99%-15.61%* Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CITIZENS |
 |
5.54% - 15.70% Variable
3.99% - 15.49% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT SALLIE MAE |
 |
4.63% - 17.99% Variable
3.49% - 17.99% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CREDIBLE |
 |
6.00% - 13.75% Variable
3.99% - 13.75% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT LENDKEY |
 |
5.66% - 14.72% Variable
3.69% - 14.56% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ASCENT |
 |
3.70% - 8.75% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ISL |
 |
5.62% - 16.85% Variable
3.69% - 16.49% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT EARNEST |
 |
5.00% - 14.22% Variable
3.69% - 14.22% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ELFI |
