2025-26 Academic Year
All Loan Rates at a Glance
Federal rates are fixed for the life of the loan. Private rates vary by credit score.
| Type | Loan | Rate | Orig. Fee | Credit Check | Forgiveness | Compare |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏛 Federal | Direct Subsidized | 6.39% | 1.057% | None | ✓ Yes | |
| 🏛 Federal | Direct Unsubsidized | 6.39% | 1.057% | None | ✓ Yes | |
| 🏛 Federal | Parent PLUS | 8.94% | 4.228% | Required | — | |
| 🏦 Private | Credible | 3.47%–17.99% | None | Required | — | |
| 🏦 Private | College Ave | 3.43%–15.99% | None | Required | — | |
| 🏦 Private | Ascent | 2.89%–15.61% | None | Required | — | |
| 🏦 Private | SoFi | 3.54%–14.99% | None | Required | — | |
| 🏦 Private | Earnest | 4.35%–16.85% | None | Required | — |
Golden Rules
The Right Order to Borrow
01
Max out Subsidized first
No interest while in school. Always exhaust this before anything else — need-based only but always apply via FAFSA.
02
Then Unsubsidized federal
No credit check, IDR eligible, forgiveness possible. Interest accrues but rates beat most private options.
03
Weigh Parent PLUS carefully
High 4.228% origination fee eats into value. At 8.94%, compare to private parent loans before committing.
04
Private loans to close the gap
Only after exhausting federal limits. No forgiveness or IDR — but top borrowers can beat federal rates.
Disclosure: uMerit AI may receive compensation when you apply through affiliate links on this page. This does not affect our analysis — federal loans are always recommended first. Rates shown are for the 2025–2026 academic year (federal) or as of 2025 (private) and are subject to change. This is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always verify rates directly with lenders and consult your school's financial aid office.