Best USA Student Loans for Foreign Students

October 30, 2023 Sandra

Are you planning to study in the US and do you need help regarding tuition fees? I know what that’s like. School costs a lot of money, right? The tuition fee is expensive, plus rent, books, and food. Figuring out the best loans to take can feel confusing. There are so many options! Which one is the best? What do all the words mean?

I made this guide to help explain everything clearly. I’ll tell you about the best loans for international students. We’ll go over important things like interest rates and how much you can borrow. Also, rules to getting loans and paying them back later.

My goal is to help you pick loans that work for your situation. Don’t be scared – we can do this together! I just want you to feel better about money for school.

Let’s start looking at the first loan on the list.

Best USA Student Loans

Federal Direct Loan Program

One of the most common loans for international students is called the Direct Loan Program. Even though you’re not from the US, you can still apply as long as your school takes part in it.

To start, your college needs to be registered with the government program. You’ll also need someone who lives here permanently to co-sign with you. Having a co-signer is really helpful because it shows you’ll pay back the money.

As a starting undergraduate, you can borrow up to $7,500 in your first year. Then $8,500 each year after that. The maximum over 4-5 years of studying is $31,000 total.

For graduate degrees, the yearly limit is $20,500. And the lifetime maximum for both undergrad and grad combined is $138,500.

These loans offer nice terms too. The interest rate right now is fixed at 4.99%, which is pretty low. You also may get rebates on fees. And there are flexible repayment plans once you finish school.

Overall, it’s one of the cheaper options if you meet the basic rules – like finding a co-signer who’s a US resident. That part can be tricky, but ensures you pay on time.

Most international students use this program each year since it provides reliable funding. Just apply early and have all your paperwork ready to send in.

Private Student Loans

If you don’t qualify for federal loans or need more funding, private loans from banks can help fill the gap. Some common lenders that work with international students include:

Citibank – They offer variable rates that change with the market but require a US cosigner. Loan amounts vary but may cover $30k+ per year.

Discover – Both fixed and variable rate options are available. No fees and the ability to qualify without a cosigner sets them apart. Maximum of $35k yearly.

Sallie Mae – Famous for student loans and provides high limits up to the full cost of attendance. Rates are often higher than others though.

When comparing private loans, pay close attention to interest rates. These aren’t fixed like federal loans and could increase over time. Rates vary based on your credit and may need a qualified cosigner. Fees also differ between lenders so be sure to ask.

Most private loans let you postpone payments while in school as long as you remain enrolled at least half-time. The cosigner usually has to begin repaying the loan if you can’t after graduating. Terms range from 5-20 years depending on your balance.

Overall, private loans provide flexibility but at potentially higher costs. Shop around and don’t take on more debt than absolutely necessary for your degree program. An in-depth rate comparison is crucial before borrowing privately.

Scholarships and Grants

In addition to loans, there are some merit-based and need-based scholarships available that don’t need to be repaid.

School scholarships: Many colleges offer academic, talent-based, or need-based grants for international students. Award amounts vary widely by school but can partially or fully cover your costs. Deadlines are usually early fall.

State scholarships: Some US states provide scholarships for students attending college within their borders. While many prefer residents, some open opportunities to international undergrads as well.

Outside scholarships: Do diligent research on additional scholarships from organizations outside your school. General internet searches pull up awards for specific countries/regions, academic fields, or career interests.

Fulbright grants: Prestigious grants sponsored by the US government’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Covers all expenses for English study or student research projects. Extremely selective.

Need-based aid: Colleges also provide need-based financial aid packages taking family income/assets into account. Submit the FAFSA and institutional forms to be considered – some aid doesn’t need to be paid back.

The process is competitive, but even one $500 scholarship chips away at your overall costs. Keep an eye out for relevant scholarships during your undergraduate studies in the US.

Credible

Credible is a popular private student loan marketplace that connects borrowers with multiple lenders. They streamline the application process for a few reasons:

Low fixed interest rates starting around 5.50% with autopay enrolled. Rates are competitive for private loans.
Access to many major lenders through one application, including Discover, College Ave, and Best Egg.
Loan amounts from $1,000 up to the full cost of attendance at your school.
No fees of any type, even late or prepayment penalties.
Co-signer release option is available after making 24 consecutive on-time principal and interest payments.

Multiple customizable repayment terms from 5-20 years once in repayment.
Specialized customer support team to help international students throughout the process.

Credible is great for comparing private student loan quotes easily. Their tech-based platform takes much of the hassle out of borrowing. Rates are transparent with no hidden costs – just what you expect each month. This marketplace is definitely worth a look.

DBS Variable Rate Loan

The DBS Variable Rate Loan is offered by Singapore-based DBS Bank. It provides several unique benefits for international students:

Variable interest rate that moves with the US prime rate, which is usually lower than most private lenders. Rates start at prime + 1.5%.

No application, origination, or disbursement fees. Just the low-interest charges.

Higher borrowing limits than others – up to $75,000 per academic year.

Fast approvals and quick funding – often within 3 business days after approval.

Money can be used for tuition, room & board, books, or living expenses.

Only a statement of purpose and no income/credit check are required. Easier qualifications.

Flexible repayment from 1-20 years once graduating or leaving school.

Since the rate floats with prime rate movements, it has the potential to rise over time. However, the large loan sizes, fee-free borrowing, and weak documentation make this one of the most accessible loans internationally. It offers competitive financing if you need higher loan amounts.

Elastic Loans

The Elastic Loan aims to simplify student borrowing for international students. They advertise an “effortless” application without unnecessary hurdles. Here are the key highlights:

Loan amounts range from $2,000 up to covering your full school costs. With generous funding available, Elastic Loan can potentially fulfill all your financial needs.

Interest rates start at Prime + 3.5%, which presently equals 7.75%. This variable APR adjusts along with market fluctuations, so your monthly payments could rise over the long run.

Perhaps their biggest differentiator is the flexible qualification process. Unlike most lenders, Elastic Loan does not demand a credit check, proof of income, tax documents, or even a cosigner – just minimum basics like name and ID. Completing a short online form is essentially all that’s needed.

This self-qualifying system provides immense convenience. Approvals arrive quickly, often by the next business day once submitted. Funds then disburse promptly so you have quick access to cash.

There are no obligation fees either if your application is denied for whatever reason. Elastic Loan doesn’t want to waste borrowers’ time with redundant paperwork, checks or a lengthy approval wait just to be rejected in the end.

While enrolled, you can opt for deferred payments where only accrued interest is due monthly. Or interest-only installments that keep growing balances low until after graduating.

Standard or graduated 10-year repayment choices exist. The former divides your total evenly over 120 months, while the latter starts smaller and gradually increases payments. Both allow flexibility post-education.

Elastic Loan is worthy of consideration for simplifying access in a way few lenders do. Just remember rates are higher than federal options or loans requiring strong credit. Weigh the convenience against potential added interest costs long-term.

For those lacking cosigners, credit histories, or funds immediately, the near-instant approval is unmatched. But explore federal aid and compare rates carefully before committing large sums here. Overall, it fills an important niche for less burdened qualifications.

College Ave

College Ave is a reputable provider of private student loans. With over a decade of experience financing higher education, they aim to offer competitive terms and helpful support throughout the financing process.

Borrowers can choose between fixed and variable interest rate loans, with current fixed rates as low as 4.99% depending on credit history. Maximum annual borrowing adds up to $40,000 per school year, allowing a total of $224,000 to fund undergraduate and graduate programs.

Unlike some lenders, College Ave does not charge origination or disbursement fees on their loans. Borrowers only pay interest charges while enrolled in school, keeping costs low until after leaving education.

Flexible in-school repayment is also an option. Students can either pay monthly interest payments or capitalize unpaid interest to be added to their principal balance. This defers more costs until the grace period ends.

Speaking of grace periods, College Ave actually extends theirs up to a full year if needed. New graduates struggling with the job search get added time before payments are due to start. This helps alleviate financial stress right after school.

When loans enter repayment, choices of 5, 8, 10, 15 or 20-year terms exist. Borrowers get to choose the schedule that best fits with their personal finances and debt load. Being in control of timelines reduces anxiety over ballooning long-term costs.

Late fees also see leniency – they’re waived for the first year of repayment for recent alumni. College Ave understands it can take time to stabilize in a new career.

Plus, private loans from College Ave allow cosigner release once 12 consecutive on-time monthly payments of principal and interest are made. This builds credit and responsibility for borrowers.

Customer service continually receives strong marks too. Overall, College Ave presents a compelling private loan solution through its flexible terms, generous borrowing limits, and emphasis on supporting students and recent graduates. Their reliable products and services make them a recommended financing source.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a cosigner with US citizenship to get approved?

For federal loans, yes a cosigner is usually required. Some private lenders like Discover may approve without one depending on your credit profile.

What’s the maximum I can borrow per year?

For federal loans, $7,500-$12,500 per year depending on your year in school. Private loan ranges are much higher, often from $10,000 up to the full cost of attendance.

Can the loans be used for living expenses?

Yes, in most cases student loans can be used to pay for tuition, fees, books, supplies, equipment, room & board, and other education-related living expenses.

How soon after graduating do I need to start repaying?

Federal loans have a 6-month grace period. Private lenders vary but most offer 6-12 months after graduating or dropping below half-time status before payments are due.

Will having no US credit history hurt my chances?

Possibly, as it makes you a higher risk. Some lenders like Discover or DBS Bank don’t do credit checks though. Having a creditworthy cosigner helps compensate for a lack of credit history.

What’s the average interest rate on these loans?

Federal loans are around 4-6%. Private rates vary more – usually 5-10% fixed but could be higher for those without established credit. Shop around to find the best terms.

How long do I have to repay the loans?

Most standard repayment plans are 10 years, but you can often extend to 15-20+ years at the cost of higher total interest paid over time.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, I hope this overview of student loan options for international students has provided helpful information as you explore ways to fund your education in the US. While costs may seem daunting at first, these programs can make that world-class degree attainable through affordable financing.

The key is doing your research to understand each lender or program – what types of loans they offer, interest rates, maximum amounts, qualifications needed, repayment terms, and customer service reputation. Compare multiple sources to get the best deal possible.

Pay attention to the differences between federal and private loans. Federal offerings generally have superior rates and protections but come with citizenship stipulations. Private lenders provide flexibility if you don’t qualify for federal aid.

Applying for every relevant scholarship is also crucial. Even a few hundred dollars here and there from grants adds up significantly. Consider tapping into school or state programs as well as outside awards.

With proper planning and understanding your alternatives, you can gain an American education through responsible borrowing. Just be sure to only take what you truly need – limiting debt leads to less stress later on.