Private Student Loans
Paying for College on Your Mind? At Nelnet Bank, We're With You.
Check Your Rates
Start your financial journey on the right path with competitive rates that can help you save money and pay off your loans faster. See Disclaimer
Before taking out a private student loan, make sure to take advantage of any federal student loans, grants, or scholarships you have access to. Federal student loans often include benefits and lower interest rates, so be sure to consider all of your options before applying for a private student loan.
Variable Rates
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Rates BetweenLowest rates listed above include an interest rate reduction for eligible applications, enrollment in auto debit, and are available only to the most creditworthy applicants. Advertised variable rates reflect the starting range of rates and may increase over the life of the loan.
Get More Help for the Road Ahead
Backed by a company that’s helped over 30,000,000 students successfully navigate repayment, Nelnet Bank was established to help make your educational dreams a reality. This strong background helps us offer expert help and educational funding solutions that give you an advantage at every step.
Auto Debit Savings
When repayment starts, set up automated payments and cut .25% off your interest rate – more money in your pocket. See Disclaimer
Cosigner Release
If your loan requires a cosigner, we make it easy to release them when you're ready. See Disclaimer
Flexible Repayment Options
Postpone payments while in school, and then choose from several repayment plans to find the best option for you.
How To Get Started
The next step in your journey is just a few clicks away. We make the process as easy as possible, offering expert help at every step.
Start Loan Application
Begin your application by providing basic information about you and the school you attend.
Add a Cosigner (If Needed)
Once you add your cosigner, we'll send them an email asking them to complete the application.
Select Loan Offer
You and your cosigner (if one is needed) will select the best loan option from your offers.
How do I qualify?
There are just a few simple eligibility requirements.
- CheckCitizenship
You or your cosigner must be a U.S. citizen or have permanent residency status with a valid U.S. Social Security number. - CheckEnrollment
You must be enrolled at a Nelnet Bank-eligible school for the loan period in question. - CheckCredit
You or your cosigner must have a credit score of 680 or higher. - CheckAge
You must be the legal age to enter into binding contracts in your state/territory of residency, or be at least 17 years of age and apply with a cosigner who is at least the age of majority in their state/territory.
What do I need to get started?
Have this basic information on hand to make your application process as smooth as possible.
- CheckPersonal Information
You’ll need to provide your birthdate, Social Security number, and address. (We need your SSN to validate your credit information. Don’t worry, it’s a “soft pull” so it won’t affect your credit score. We promise.)See Disclaimer - CheckIncome + Costs
You’ll need to provide your annual income and monthly housing expenses. - CheckSchool Information
You’ll need to provide your expected graduation date, estimated education costs, and amount of other aid you’ll receive for the term. - CheckLoan Amount
You’ll need to provide your requested Nelnet Bank private student loan amount.
Why Would I want a Cosigner?
Cosigners may help you qualify for private student loans and may help reduce your interest rate. As a student, it’s likely you’ll need a trusted individual with a solid credit score to act as your cosigner.
Learn More About CosignersThere’s a lot of managing your money while you’re in college, putting student loans behind you, and moving on to your next big adventure. We’re here every step of the way with helpful resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about private student loans? If we haven’t answered your questions below, contact us – that’s why we’re here.
The longer answer? Federal Direct Loan interest rates are determined each year by the U.S. Congress. Private loan interest rates are set by private lenders (like Nelnet Bank) using a number of factors.
- You must be enrolled at a Nelnet Bank-eligible school for the loan period in question.
- You or your cosigner must be a U.S. citizen or have permanent residency status and a valid Social Security number.
- You or your cosigner must have a credit score of 680 or higher.
- A cosigner isn’t required, but may help you meet credit or qualify for a better rate.
- Minimum loan amount: $1,000
- Maximum loan amount: $125,000
- Minimum loan amount: $1,000
- Maximum student loan limit:
- Graduate and doctorate: $175,000
- MBA or graduate law degree: $175,000
- Graduate health professions degree: $500,000
- Immediate repayment (you'll be required to make full principal and interest payments as soon as the loan is disbursed).
- Interest-only repayment (you’ll make interest-only payments while in school) and full principal and interest payments after you separate from school.
- Defer principal and interest payments (you won’t be required to make any payments until after you separate from school) but interest will accrue while in deferment.