7 Best International Student Loans in USA in 2024

Your Dream of Studying in the USA: A Guide to Best International Student Loans

Coming to America for your studies can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but the financial hurdles can seem daunting. If you’re an international student wondering about loans and repayment options, this guide is for you.

Say Goodbye to Collateral and SSN Worries: You have more options than you might think! Gone are the days when collateral or a Social Security number were absolute must-haves. Here are some top international student loan options to consider:

1. Earnest:

  • Pros: 9-month grace period, skip a payment once a year, no fees for co-signers.
  • Cons: No loans for part-time undergraduates, no co-signer release program.
  • Repayment: Interest-only, fixed, deferred, or full payment options.
  • Eligibility: U.S. citizen/permanent resident co-signer required for most.

2. MPOWER:

  • Pros: No co-signer or credit check needed, autopay discount.
  • Cons: Only one repayment term, origination fee, interest-only in school.
  • Repayment: Interest-only, then full monthly payments after grace period.
  • Eligibility: Available at select U.S. and Canadian schools, open to certain visa holders.

3. Juno:

  • Pros: Lower interest rates, no commitment or fees, available for DACA and international students.
  • Cons: Lengthy approval process, limited to partner lenders, enrollment required to see rates.
  • Repayment: Deferred, fixed, interest-only, or full payment options.
  • Eligibility: Accredited U.S. university student, co-signer may be required for DACA and international students.

4. Credible:

  • Pros: Compare rates from multiple lenders, no application fee or hard credit check.
  • Cons: Not all major lenders are partners, borrower research needed.
  • Repayment: Full, fixed, interest-only, or deferred options.
  • Eligibility: U.S. citizen/legal resident with SSN, qualifying income/debt ratio.

5. Ascent:

  • Pros: Flexible repayment terms, graduation reward, referral bonuses.
  • Cons: International students require co-signer, limited part-time options.
  • Repayment: Deferred, interest-only, fixed, or immediate repayment options.
  • Eligibility: U.S. citizen/permanent resident co-signer required, proof of income needed.

Bonus Tip: Check out Citizens Bank and Prodigy Finance for additional options, including co-signer release programs and loans for specific programs or countries.

Remember:

  • Compare rates and terms before applying.
  • Understand repayment options and their impact on long-term costs.
  • Borrow responsibly and only what you need.

With careful planning and the right loan, your American study dream can become a reality. So, take a deep breath and get ready to embark on this exciting adventure!

Share via
Copy link