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Best graduate school loans for September 2024

Updated Aug 22, 2024

What to know first: If you're searching for a graduate school loan, it's generally best to start with federal loans, as they offer flexible repayment options and you may qualify for forgiveness. However, private student loans can also be a good option to fill in the gaps. Many lenders don’t charge application or origination fees and borrowers with good credit could secure lower rates than those offered by federal loans.

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STUDENT LOAN

College Ave: Best for nontraditional students

4.4

Fixed APR from
3.74- 14.49%
Loan term
5-15 yrs
Loan amount
$1k- $500K
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STUDENT LOAN

Education Loan Finance: Best for using a co-signer

4.2

Fixed APR from
3.69- 14.22%
Loan term
5-15 yrs
Loan amount
$1k- $500K
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STUDENT LOAN

Sallie Mae: Best for part-time students

4.6

Fixed APR from
3.99- 14.48%
Loan term
15-15 yrs
Loan amount
$1k- $500K
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STUDENT LOAN

SoFi: Best for member benefits

4.7

Fixed APR from
3.74- 14.83%
Loan term
5-15 yrs
Loan amount
$1k- $500K

STUDENT LOAN

Citizens Bank: Best for multiyear approval

4.0

Fixed APR from
4.24- 14.09%
Loan term
5-15 yrs
Loan amount
$1k- $225K
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STUDENT LOAN

Custom Choice: Best for discounts

4.1

Fixed APR from
4.24- 14.02%
Loan term
7-15 yrs
Loan amount
$1k- $180K
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STUDENT LOAN

INvestEd: Best for Indiana-based students with good credit

Fixed APR from
5.04- 9.19%
Loan term
5-15 yrs
Loan amount
$1k- $500K
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STUDENT LOAN

Ascent: Best for loans without a co-signer

4.3

Fixed APR from
4.69- 14.71%
Loan term
5-20 yrs
Loan amount
$2k- $400K
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STUDENT LOAN

MEFA: Best for low interest rate maximums

Fixed APR from
5.75- 8.95%
Loan term
10-15 yrs
Loan amount
$1k- $500K
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STUDENT LOAN

Federal Student Loans: Best graduate student loan

4.6

Fixed APR from
6.53- 8.08%
Loan term
10-25 yrs
Loan amount
$1k- $500K
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Compare graduate student loan rates from Bankrate's top picks 

Use this table to compare our top graduate student loans. Make sure you consider every option before applying to make sure you end up with the best loan for your graduate studies.

LENDER APR FOR GRADUATE STUDENT LOANS* LOAN TERMS MIN. LOAN AMOUNT MAX. LOAN AMOUNT
College Ave Fixed: 3.74%-14.49%; Variable: 5.59%-14.49% 5-20 years $1,000 100% total cost of attendance ($150,000 maximum for some programs)
Education Loan Finance Fixed: 3.69%-14.22% (with autopay); Variable: 6.00%-14.22% (with autopay) 5-15 years $1,000 Varies
Sallie Mae Fixed: 3.69%-14.48% (with autopay); Variable: 5.37%-14.97% (with autopay) 15-20 years $1,000 100% total cost of attendance
SoFi Fixed: 3.74%-14.83% (with autopay); Variable: 5.74%-15.86% (with autopay) 5-15 years $1,000 100% total cost of attendance
Citizens Bank Fixed: 4.24%-14.09% (with autopay); Variable: 5.99%-15.09% (with autopay) 5-15 years $1,000 $350,000
Custom Choice Fixed: 4.24%-14.02% (with autopay); Variable: 5.46%-14.92% (with autopay) 7-15 years $1,000 $180,000
INvestEd Fixed: 5.04%-9.19% (with autopay); Variable: 7.99%-12.45% (with autopay) 5-15 years $1,001 Up to total cost of attendance
Ascent Fixed: 4.69%-14.71% (with autopay); Variable: 7.86%-15.72% (with autopay) 5-20 years $2,001 $400,000
MEFA Fixed: 5.75%-8.95% (with autopay) 10 or 15 years $1,001 Up to total cost of attendance
U.S. Department of Education: Direct Unsubsidized Loan 8.08% fixed Standard repayment term is 10 years Not specified $20,500 per year (lifetime limit $138,500)
U.S. Department of Education: Grad PLUS loan 9.08% fixed Standard repayment term is 10 years Not specified 100% total cost of attendance

*The rates in this table are the rate ranges given for graduate student loans. The information on lenders below reflect the overall student loan rate range offered by each lender.

A closer look at top graduate student loan lenders

College Ave: Best for nontraditional students

College Ave
Rating: 4.4 stars out of 5
4.4

Overview: College Ave is an online lender that offers private student loans to graduate students earning postgraduate, master's, doctoral and professional degrees. The lender specializes in a simple application process with an instant decision.

Fixed APR
3.74%–14.49%
Loan amount
$1,000-100% cost of attendance
Loan term
5-15 yrs

Education Loan Finance: Best for using a co-signer

Education Loan Finance
Rating: 4.2 stars out of 5
4.2

Overview: ELFI graduate loans are only available for students who are attending one of the lender's approved schools. While it does have stricter eligibility requirements than some lenders, it allows for co-signers.

Fixed APR
3.69%–14.22%
Loan amount
$1,000-Varies
Loan term
5-15 yrs

Sallie Mae: Best for part-time students

Sallie Mae
Rating: 4.6 stars out of 5
4.6

Overview: Sallie Mae was established in 1973 and is a well-known student loan lender for a reason. It has a number of features, including multiyear approval, scholarship opportunities and the ability to take out loans while attending part time.

Fixed APR
3.99%–14.48%
Loan amount
$1,000-100% cost of attendance
Loan term
15-15 yrs

SoFi: Best for member benefits

SoFi
Rating: 4.7 stars out of 5
4.7

Overview: In addition to offering some of the most competitive starting APRs on this list, SoFi also offers additional ways to lower your interest rate using autopay, member discounts and rewards. The company even has a cutting-edge program that allows borrowers to earn points by using its app and use them to pay off their student loan balances.

Fixed APR
3.74%–14.83%
Loan amount
$1,000-100% cost of attendance
Loan term
5-15 yrs

Citizens Bank: Best for multiyear approval

Citizens
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
4

Overview: Founded in 1828, Citizens Bank is among the oldest institutions on our list.  Its unique multiyear approval process allows you to secure funding for each year of school with just one application.

Fixed APR
4.24%–14.09%
Loan amount
$1,000-$225,000
Loan term
5-15 yrs

Custom Choice: Best for discounts

Custom Choice
Rating: 4.1 stars out of 5
4.1

Overview: Custom Choice offers smaller loans that can be used for both undergraduate and graduate studies. Its loans don't come with any fees and the lender offers flexible co-signer options, including a release option after 35 consecutive on-time payments. 

Fixed APR
4.24%–14.02%
Loan amount
$1,000-$180,000
Loan term
7-15 yrs

INvestEd: Best for Indiana-based students with good credit

Invested

Overview: INvestEd is an Indiana-based student loan lender and financial aid resource that caters only to residents of and students in the state. Along with offering a 0.25 percent rate reduction, the lender offers a short co-signer release after the first 12 consecutive months of payments.

Fixed APR
5.04%–9.19%
Loan amount
$1,001- 100% cost of attendance
Loan term
5-15 yrs

Ascent: Best for non-co-signed loans

Ascent
Rating: 4.3 stars out of 5
4.3

Overview: Ascent is an online lender that offers student loans for borrowers with or without a co-signer. Ascent doesn't just look at your creditworthiness, it also considers your school, program, GPA and cost of attendance when approving you for a loan.

Fixed APR
4.69%–14.71%
Loan amount
$2,001-$400,000
Loan term
5-20 yrs

MEFA: Best for low interest rate maximums

mefa

Overview: MEFA's loans have flexible enrollment requirements and, unlike some lenders, are available to graduate students in all 50 states. Plus, it carries one of the lowest fixed interest rate maximums out of the lenders on our list.

Fixed APR
5.75%–8.95%
Loan amount
$1k– $500k
Loan term
10-15 yrs

Federal student loans: Best graduate student loan

Federal Student Loans
Rating: 4.6 stars out of 5
4.6

Overview: Although federal loans come with lower amounts and higher rates than some private lenders, the federal program offers the strongest borrower protections and most flexible repayment options available.

Fixed APR
6.53%–8.08%
Loan amount
$1k– $500k
Loan term
10-25 yrs

What is a graduate student loan?

A graduate school loan is a type of student loan that can help pay for graduate school tuition, fees, books, housing and more. These loans often have higher borrowing limits than undergraduate student loans, since graduate school costs more. They may also have perks specific to your degree — for instance, extended deferment during a clerkship or fellowship opportunities.

How graduate student loans work

Graduate student loans function similarly to undergraduate private student loans. They're designed specifically for graduate programs, like master's degrees, an MBA or a Ph.D. They come in both private and federal options and nearly every lender has a different set of eligibility requirements and usage restrictions. 

Like undergraduate loans, you'll apply for your intended amount and can use those funds on academic-related expenses. Depending on your field of study, some lenders offer extended deferment periods. For example, a lender may offer an option of a six week deferment period while you study for the bar or begin a medical residency.

Private vs. federal graduate school student loans 

When you need to borrow money to pay for graduate school, you have three main options: federal Direct Unsubsidized student loans, federal grad PLUS student loans and private student loans. 

Federal and graduate student loans

Federal student loans are backed by the U.S. Department of Education and are loaded with borrower protections and flexibility. Within this program, graduate students can choose between a Direct Unsubsidized student loan and a grad PLUS loan.

You can borrow up to $20,500 each school year with a Direct Unsubsidized student loan, with a $138,500 aggregate limit for most degrees. A grad PLUS loan allows you to borrow more — up to 100 percent of the cost of attendance. 

In general, it's best to maximize your unsubsidized loan options first, as interest rates are lower than those of grad PLUS loans. Additionally, you must go through a credit check for grad PLUS loans, which is not the case for Direct Unsubsidized Loans.

To apply for either of these loans, you'll have to complete the FAFSA, which opens on Oct. 1 each year. If you're applying for a grad PLUS loan, you'll also have to fill out a separate application once the FAFSA is complete. If this is

Green circle with a checkmark inside

Pros

  • Flexible repayment options, including income-driven repayment plans.
  • The same fixed rates for all borrowers, regardless of credit score.
  • Borrower protections, including deferment and forbearance options and potential loan forgiveness.
Red circle with an X inside

Cons

  • Origination fees.
  • Potential for garnishment of wages or tax refunds if you default.
  • Potentially higher interest rates than private lenders offer if you have excellent credit.

Private student loans 

Private student loans are originated by private financial institutions, such as banks, credit unions and online lenders. You have dozens of options to choose from, but each lender sets its own rates, terms and eligibility requirements. 

Rates are commonly anywhere from about 4 percent to 17 percent and can be fixed or variable. The exact rate you're quoted depends on your credit score and financial profile. As such, you'll have to go through a hard credit check in order to be approved for a loan.

Unlike with federal student loans, you'll generally have a range of repayment terms to choose from with private lenders, usually between five and 20 years. Private student loan lenders also often offer degree-specific loans that are tailored to the needs of law school, medical school, business school and more.

Green circle with a checkmark inside

Pros

  • Zero fees with many lenders.
  • Usually fixed and variable interest rates available.
  • High loan limits.
Red circle with an X inside

Cons

  • Hardship plans are rare.
  • Income-driven repayment or forgiveness plans are rare.
  • Harder to qualify with poor credit.

How to choose a graduate student loan

  1. Look at federal student loan options: With low rates and many options for payment assistance, federal loans are the best choice for most borrowers.
  2. Compare offers from a few private lenders: If you need funding from private loans, a good rule of thumb is to get prequalified with at least three lenders to compare rates.
  3. Consider interest rates and terms: With offers in hand, look at which interest rate and repayment term works best for your budget. Also consider any additional fees from the lenders.
  4. Look into unique features: If a lender offers a long grace period or deferment options while you return to school, it may be worth it to choose that lender over one with a slightly lower interest rate.

Ask the experts: Should you look for graduate loans designed specifically for your major?


Writer, Personal Loans and Debt Relief

"For most graduate programs, it doesn't really matter if your student loan is made specifically for your field of study. But there are instances where it could be helpful. For example, medical loans or law school loans may offer forbearance or deferment periods for resident programs. If you're going into a career path that has unique equipment requirements, it may be better to look into major-specific loans. Otherwise, the necessary equipment and learning materials required for your field of study may not be approved with a generic graduate loan."

Nationally recognized student financial aid expert

"The primary difference between private student loans for a specific academic major and other private student loans is in the loan limit. The loan limit may be matched to the typical cost of attendance for that major. You should also consider interest rates, fees, in-school deferment or forbearance periods, grace periods and repayment plans."

Getting a graduate student loan

Most lenders will have similar application processes. Here's what you can expect when you apply for a graduate student loan: 

  1. Prequalify: Check your eligibility and potential rates and terms by prequalifying. Doing so won't affect your credit.
  2. Apply: Most lenders offer online applications. Some will also provide phone support. Others may offer in-person assistance at physical locations. 
  3. Accept the loan terms: Funds will be sent to your school once the application is approved and cost of attendance is certified. It may take a few weeks to get certified. Any remaining amount after tuition and fees will be sent to you directly. 

Repaying a graduate student loan 

Graduate student loans generally have a six-month grace period before you need to start making payments. However, certain lenders offer longer periods for specific career paths. If you're not sure when repayment starts, check the loan agreement that you signed when you took the loan. 

When it comes time to start making the payments, you'll most likely get an email or text reminder letting you know when your grace period is ending. Depending on your repayment term, you could start repayment during your school year or after you graduate. Make the monthly payments on-time consistently and if a prepayment penalty isn't charged, make more than one payment a month to pay down your balance faster.

Alternatives to graduate student loans 

If a graduate loan isn't in the cards for you, there are a few alternative options at your disposal that can help lessen the overall cost of your graduate degree. Start first with need-based federal aid to maximize your aid potential and then move to scholarships and grants. Check with your school to see if there are any departmental scholarships available; oftentimes there are career-specific aid opportunities given to students within a certain field of study.

Check with your career development counselor within your department to see if there are any graduate apprenticeship-type opportunities. Often awarded on educational merit, these programs allow students to receive a free or reduced tuition in exchange for student teaching or working in a research lab.

FAQ about graduate student loans

How we chose our best graduate school loan lenders 

Bankrate's trusted personal loans industry expertise

48

years in business

25

lenders reviewed

14

loan features weighed

350

data points collected

To find the best graduate school loan lenders, Bankrate's team of experts evaluated over 20 lenders. Each lender was then rated on a 14-point scale. The scale is split into three main categories:

Editorial disclosure: All reviews are prepared by Bankrate.com staff. Opinions expressed therein are solely those of the reviewer and have not been reviewed or approved by any advertiser. The information, including rates and fees, presented in the review is accurate as of the date of the review. Check the data at the top of this page and the lender’s website for the most current information.