Paying for college is a lot.

We get it.

When federal aid doesn’t cover everything, Nelnet Bank Private Student Loans help fill the gap—with competitive rates, simple terms, and no guesswork.

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  • No Application or Origination Fees

    More of your money goes toward school—not fees.

  • Clear Rates and Terms Upfront

    See costs and responsibilities before you commit.

  • Flexible Repayment Options

    Pay now, later, or somewhere in between.

  • Cover More Than Just Tuition

    Borrow up to 100% of your school-certified costs.

Interest rate display showing fixed and variable rates.
Fixed rates starting at
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Looking for grad school loans? See Grad Loans

College is a big step. Your loans shouldn't feel like a leap.

Private student loans for real college costs.

Tuition isn’t the only expense. When scholarships, grants, and federal loans fall short, a private student loan can help cover what’s left.

  • Borrow up to 100% of your tuition, fees, housing, and living expenses

  • Review clear terms you can easily understand—before deciding

  • Choose from multiple repayment options—now and after graduation

Cosigning is a big commitment. You deserve clarity.

We make responsibilities, rates, and repayment expectations clear from the start—so there are no surprises later.

  • Straightforward explanations of rates and terms

  • No application or origination fees

  • Time to review everything before saying yes

“It was very easy to fill out everything and sign. The questions were easy and hearing back from you was a breeze.”

-Nelnet Bank Customer

Clear from the start. Simple to finish.

It only takes a few minutes to check your rate.

first

Check Your Rate

Share basic info to see potential rates—with no credit impact. 2 Adding a cosigner may boost your chance of approval.

second

Pick Your Loan

Review rates, terms, and repayment choices. All offers are subject to credit approval.

third

Sign And Submit

If approved, upload any needed documents, sign online, and we'll handle the rest.

Applying lets you explore your options. You’ll review rates, repayment choices, and responsibilities before deciding what works for you.

After you apply, you’ll get clear next steps—and access to real people if questions come up.

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You just want this to be simple.

Built on decades of student loan experience—designed for what comes next.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will checking my rate affect my credit?

Checking your rate results in a soft credit pull, which will not affect your credit score. If you continue with your application, Nelnet Bank will request your permission to obtain your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies. This is a hard credit pull and may affect your credit score. You’ll see all details before you commit.

What is a cosigner? Do I need one?

A cosigner is a creditworthy individual who agrees to share responsibility for repayment if needed. While not required, a cosigner may be able to strengthen your application and help you qualify for better rates. Learn more about cosigners here.

How much can I borrow?*

You can borrow from $1,000 up to your school-certified cost of attendance. Loan limits vary by program:

  • Undergraduate programs: up to $125,000

  • Graduate and doctorate programs: up to $175,000

  • MBA or graduate law degree programs: up to $175,000

  • Graduate health professions programs: up to $500,000

Maximum loan amounts are subject to limits on total student loan debt.

What are the eligibility requirements for a private student loan?

To qualify, you'll need to meet the following 6:

  • Be enrolled at least half-time at a Nelnet Bank-eligible school during the loan period.

  • You or your cosigner must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a valid Social Security number.

  • You or your cosigner must have a FICO score in the mid to high 600s or higher.

  • A cosigner isn't required, but may help you qualify or secure a better rate.

  • You must be old enough to enter a binding contract in your state or territory.

  • You or your cosigner must have income that can support the loan payments.

Applicants who are 16 or 17 may apply with a qualified cosigner.

What repayment options are available?

Choose a repayment option based on what works best for you now and after. Repayment options include:

  • Immediate repayment: Monthly full principal and interest payments begin as soon as the loan is disbursed.

  • Interest-only repayment: You’ll make monthly interest-only payments while in school, then full principal and interest payments after leaving school.

  • Deferred repayment: No payments are required while you are in school, but interest will accrue during deferment.

  • Fixed payment: You’ll make a fixed $25 monthly payment while in school, then full principal and interest payments after leaving school. Unpaid interest will be charged and added to your loan.

Big decisions deserve clear answers.
We get it.

See rates, terms, and responsibilities—clearly explained—before you commit.

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