Aug 17, 2020
College Loans
4 Smart Tips for Comparing Student Loan Interest Rates
The advertised interest rate for student loans can be confusing. Here are four tips that can help you compare interest rates.
Federal and private student loans have different application processes.
Federal Student Loans
- Start the application process by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) at studentaid.gov.
- Review your Student Aid Report (SAR). It typically arrives about a week after you submit your FAFSA online.
- Compare your financial aid award letters and accept all or part of the federal loans offered.
- Complete entrance counseling and sign your Master Promissory Note.
- Receive your loan proceeds from your school once they have been applied to your student account.
Private Student Loans
- Submit your application and undergo a credit check.
- Add a cosigner to increase your chance for loan approval and a lower interest rate.
- Sign your Promissory Note and complete the Self-Certification Form.
- Accept the loan terms.
- Receive your loan proceeds from your school once they have been applied to your student account.
FAFSA is a registered service mark of the U.S. Department of Education and is not affiliated with Discover Student Loans.
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