Pursuing higher education abroad is an exciting journey, but financing it can be challenging for international students.

With limited access to scholarships and grants, college loans provide a crucial financial solution.

This article explores the 9 best college loan for international students, highlighting their unique features, interest rates, and eligibility requirements.

Best College Loan for International Students

Loan ProviderLoan AmountCo-signer RequirementInterest RatesLoan TermsEligibility Requirements
1. Sallie Mae Student LoansUp to 100% of COAYes5.99% – 16.45% (variable)5 to 20 yearsU.S.-based co-signer required
2. MPOWER FinancingUp to $100,000No11.99% (fixed)10 yearsEnrolled in an eligible U.S. or Canadian school
3. Prodigy FinanceUp to 80% of COANo8.20% – 12.20% (variable)7 to 20 yearsEnrollment in supported graduate programs
4. Ascent Student LoansUp to $200,000Optional4.62% – 16.75%5 to 15 yearsEnrolled full-time in a U.S. institution
5. Discover Student LoansUp to 100% of COAYes5.49% – 14.99%15 yearsU.S.-based co-signer required
6. College Ave Student LoansUp to $200,000Yes5.99% – 13.74%5 to 15 yearsRequires U.S.-based co-signer
7. Earnest Private Student LoansUp to $250,000Yes4.42% – 14.90%5 to 15 yearsU.S.-based co-signer recommended
8. Wells Fargo Private LoansVariesYes5.94% – 13.74%5 to 20 yearsRequires U.S.-based co-signer
9. Lendwise LoanUp to £100,000No8.95% (fixed)10 yearsStudents at selected institutions globally
Best College Loan for International Students

1. Sallie Mae Student Loans

Sallie Mae is one of the most well-known private lenders, offering a range of student loans for undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees.

  • Loan Amount: Up to 100% of the cost of attendance (COA).
  • Interest Rates: Variable rates range from 5.99% to 16.45%.
  • Loan Terms: Flexible terms from 5 to 20 years.
  • Eligibility Requirements: Requires a U.S.-based co-signer for international students.
  • Unique Benefits: Includes deferment options during school and a 6-month grace period after graduation.

2. MPOWER Financing

MPOWER specializes in providing loans without requiring a co-signer, making it an excellent option for international students.

  • Loan Amount: Up to $100,000 over multiple terms.
  • Interest Rates: Fixed rate of 11.99%.
  • Loan Terms: Repayment term of 10 years.
  • Eligibility Requirements: Must be enrolled in an eligible school in the U.S. or Canada.
  • Unique Benefits: Offers interest rate discounts for automatic payments and career support services.

3. Prodigy Finance

Prodigy Finance focuses on international graduate students, offering loans without collateral or a co-signer.

  • Loan Amount: Covers up to 80% of the cost of attendance.
  • Interest Rates: Variable rates between 8.20% and 12.20%.
  • Loan Terms: Repayment terms range from 7 to 20 years.
  • Eligibility Requirements: Limited to students enrolled in graduate programs at partner institutions.
  • Unique Benefits: Flexible repayment plans and global access for borrowers.

4. Ascent Student Loans

Ascent provides loans with and without co-signer options, catering to a variety of student needs.

  • Loan Amount: Up to $200,000.
  • Interest Rates: Variable rates from 4.62% to 16.75%.
  • Loan Terms: Flexible repayment terms from 5 to 15 years.
  • Eligibility Requirements: Requires full-time enrollment in a U.S. institution.
  • Unique Benefits: Includes a 1% cashback graduation reward and financial literacy resources.

5. Discover Student Loans

Discover offers loans for undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees with competitive rates.

  • Loan Amount: Up to 100% of COA.
  • Interest Rates: Ranges from 5.49% to 14.99%.
  • Loan Terms: Fixed repayment period of 15 years.
  • Eligibility Requirements: Requires a U.S.-based co-signer.
  • Unique Benefits: No fees for application, origination, or prepayment.

6. College Ave Student Loans

College Ave Student Loan
Best College Loan for International Students

College Ave provides customized loan options for students seeking flexibility in repayment.

  • Loan Amount: Up to $200,000.
  • Interest Rates: Fixed rates from 5.99% to 13.74%.
  • Loan Terms: Choose between 5 to 15 years.
  • Eligibility Requirements: Requires a U.S.-based co-signer for international students.
  • Unique Benefits: Personalized repayment options and instant prequalification.

7. Earnest Private Student Loans

Earnest offers competitive loans tailored to meet the needs of students.

  • Loan Amount: Up to $250,000.
  • Interest Rates: Variable rates from 4.42% to 14.90%.
  • Loan Terms: Terms range from 5 to 15 years.
  • Eligibility Requirements: A U.S.-based co-signer is strongly recommended.
  • Unique Benefits: Allows borrowers to skip a payment once per year without penalty.

8. Wells Fargo Private Loans

Wells Fargo provides loans for international students with a co-signer.

  • Loan Amount: Varies based on the cost of attendance.
  • Interest Rates: Ranges from 5.94% to 13.74%.
  • Loan Terms: Repayment periods from 5 to 20 years.
  • Eligibility Requirements: Requires a U.S.-based co-signer.
  • Unique Benefits: Includes interest rate reductions for existing Wells Fargo customers.

9. Lendwise Loan

Lendwise caters to students at select global institutions, focusing on postgraduate education.

  • Loan Amount: Up to £100,000.
  • Interest Rates: Fixed rate at 8.95%.
  • Loan Terms: Repayment period of 10 years.
  • Eligibility Requirements: Enrollment in partner institutions.
  • Unique Benefits: Career support services and deferred repayment options.

Quick One: We have other useful loan articles here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a co-signer to get a college loan as an international student?

Not always. Some lenders like MPOWER Financing and Prodigy Finance do not require co-signers, while others such as Sallie Mae and Discover typically do.

What are the interest rates for international student loans?

Interest rates vary by lender and loan type, ranging from 4.42% to 16.75%. Rates can be fixed or variable.

Can I apply for multiple loans simultaneously?

Yes, but it’s essential to consider the repayment obligations and avoid over-borrowing. Compare rates and terms to choose the most suitable option.

Conclusion

Securing a college loan as an international student is no longer an insurmountable task.

The 9 best college loan for international students outlined above provide tailored solutions, from co-signer-free loans like MPOWER Financing to customizable repayment plans by College Ave.

Carefully evaluate each lender’s terms and eligibility requirements to make the best decision for your educational goals.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *