There are several types of education loans available to students and families to help cover the costs of college. Loans should be considered after seeking out grants, scholarships and other money that does not need to be repaid.

Federal loans should be considered before choosing other types of borrowing. They generally offer low, fixed interest rates and flexible repayment options. After exploring federal loans, students might still have a funding gap. Consider a private education loan to fill any remaining gap.

		Federal Stafford Loan Available to undergraduate and graduate students
		Federal Parent PLUS Loan Available to parents of dependent undergraduate students
		Federal Graduate PLUS Loan Federal Graduate PLUS Loan
		Private loans Available to undergraduate and graduate students