Federal student loans are required by law to provide a range of flexible repayment options including, but not limited to, income-based and income-contingent repayment plans as well as loan forgiveness benefits that private lenders are not required to provide. Federal direct loans are available to most students regardless of income.
Private student loan lenders can offer variable interest rates that can increase or decrease over time, depending on market conditions. The interest rate on a private loan may depend on the borrower’s and/or co-signer’s credit rating. Private student loans have a range of interest rates and fees and students should determine the interest rate of, and any fees associated with, the private student loan included in their financial aid award package before accepting the loan.
Students should contact the lender of the private student loan or their UC campus’ Financial Aid Office if they have any questions about a private student loan.