Lender reviews

· 7 guides

Lender reviews

Read straightforward reviews of student loan lenders, product terms, and borrower tradeoffs.

Articles in this topic

7 articles

GradBridge Student Loan Review 2026

GradBridge is a 2025 second-look private lender for students denied elsewhere. Our review covers its high rates, 5% fee, eligibility, and who should use it.

Jun 1, 2026 · Resource guide

Citizens Bank Student Loan Review 2026

Citizens Bank offers something no online-only lender can: a 0.50% combined rate discount for existing banking customers plus autopay, multi-year approval, and the backing of a traditional bank with physical branches.

Apr 23, 2026 · By Sravani Atluri

Ascent Student Loan Review 2026

Ascent is one of the only lenders offering loans without a cosigner or credit history through its Outcomes-Based Loan. It also serves DACA students, charges zero fees, and offers 12-month cosigner release.

Apr 23, 2026 · By Sravani Atluri

College Ave Student Loan Review 2026

College Ave covers 100% of school-certified costs, offers grace periods up to 36 months for medical students, and has 10 different loan products. The catch: cosigner release takes much longer than competitors.

Apr 23, 2026 · By Sravani Atluri

Earnest Student Loan Review 2026

Earnest stands out with a 9-month grace period, the ability to skip one payment per year, and zero fees across the board. The tradeoff: no cosigner release. Here is the full picture for 2026.

Apr 23, 2026 · By Sravani Atluri

SoFi Student Loan Review 2026

SoFi charges zero fees, offers career coaching and unemployment protection, and has dedicated loan products for law, medical, and MBA students. Here is how their rates and terms stack up in 2026.

Apr 23, 2026 · By Sravani Atluri

Sallie Mae Student Loan Review 2026

Sallie Mae offers nine student loan products, 12-month cosigner release, and serves everyone from undergrads to medical students. Here is what you need to know about their rates, fees, and repayment options for 2026.

Apr 23, 2026 · By Sravani Atluri