In the competitive landscape of legal education, aspiring lawyers seek not only top-tier academic programs but also financial support to navigate the often daunting costs of their studies. As we delve into the realm of legal academia in 2024, we embark on a journey to uncover the 10 best lenders that offer law school loans.
These lenders stand as beacons of excellence, shaping the future of legal professionals while alleviating the financial burdens that come with pursuing a legal education. Join us as we explore the elite institutions that define the landscape of legal education and student financial support in 2024.
10 Best Law School Loans of 2024
Here are the 10 best law school loans of 2024, with the best rates and services that will favor you in the long run. So, if you are a student or a co-signer, here are some of the best places to apply for a law student loan in 2024:
1. Citizens Bank
Citizens Bank stands out as a reliable option for law students seeking financing. With competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms, Citizens Bank offers loans that cater to the diverse financial needs of aspiring lawyers.
Their streamlined application process and responsive customer service make them a preferred choice among law students.
It offers loan amounts of $1,000 to $350,000 depending on the degree and loan terms of 5, 10, or 15 years.
International students can apply with a co-signer with permanent residency or U.S. citizenship. You can also enjoy up to 0.50% interest rate discounts if you are an existing customer.
2. Ascent Graduate Student Loan
With a fixed APR of 5.13% to 14.56%, Ascent Graduate Student Loan is another amazing option that you can consider in 2024. However, they charge late fees, and their maximum fixed APR is higher than 12%.
Despite all of these, Ascent Graduate Student Loan offers independent and co-signed loans to interest-paying borrowers. What’s more, if you are a DACA student or an international student, you can get a loan from them.
3. Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan
Offered by the U.S. Department of Education, the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan remains a staple choice for many law students. With fixed interest rates and flexible repayment plans, this loan provides essential financial assistance without the need for a cosigner or credit check.
Despite its limitations, such as borrowing caps, it remains a reliable option for those seeking federal aid.
4. SoFi
SoFi, known for its innovative approach to student lending, is one of the best lenders for law school loans. There are no late fees, you have access to SoFi member benefits, and you can get the interest rate estimate without going through a hard credit check. On the other hand, SoFi has a maximum APR higher than 10%, which discourages a lot of people.
5. Federal Graduate PLUS Loan
For law students requiring additional funding beyond the Direct Unsubsidized Loan, the Federal Graduate PLUS Loan offers a viable solution. Administered by the Department of Education, this loan provides access to funds to cover educational expenses not met by other financial aid.
While interest rates may be higher compared to other federal loans, the Graduate PLUS Loan remains an essential resource for many law students.
6. Custom Choice
Unlike the federal graduate PLUS loan, Custom Choice does not have late or origination fees. Moreover, you get a 2% principal reduction once you provide proof of graduation.
Although there is no transparency about income requirements and credit, Custom Choice offers a 0.25% interest rate discount if you enroll with autopay.
7. Rhode Island Student Loan Authority
Rhode Island Student Loan Authority is another top-notch lender offering law school loans that you need to inquire into. They offer 0% interest for 4 years following graduation for nurses.
However, their services are not accessible to international students. Nevertheless, the Rhode Island Student Loan Authority (RISLA) has income-based repayment plans available and low-interest rates for borrowers.
8. Sallie Mae
Sallie Mae remains a prominent player in the student loan industry, offering comprehensive financing solutions for law students. With competitive interest rates and flexible repayment options, Sallie Mae’s loans are tailored to meet the diverse needs of aspiring legal professionals.
Their online tools and resources empower students to make informed financial decisions throughout their academic journey.
9. Earnest
Earnest is another lender with no late fee; you can skip one payment per year and have a 9-month grace period if you are a graduate student. However, there is no rate estimate available with the soft credit check and co-signer release program.
10. College Ave
College Ave rounds up our list of the best law loans of 2024 with its borrower-friendly approach and competitive rates. With customizable loan terms and an intuitive online application process, College Ave simplifies the borrowing experience for law students.
Their commitment to customer satisfaction and borrower support makes them a trusted partner in legal education financing.
How to Find a Good Law School Loan Lender
A lot of students ask, How do I find the best law school loan? I know that you might experience some difficulties when choosing a good law school student loan. Nonetheless, being able to perform or carry out the application process can assist you in finding a good and reliable lender and selecting the perfect option for your needs. Now, here is what you need to do:
- Complete the FAFSA form.
- Submit all the required documents and information.
- Search for private lenders if you do not qualify for a federal student loan.
- Pre-qualify.
- Compare offers.
- Apply for and complete the application process.
However, keep in mind that the loan amount and the application process differ depending on the type of loan you are applying for.
FAQs
How do I qualify for a law school loan?
Qualification criteria vary depending on the lender and the type of loan. Generally, lenders consider factors such as credit history, income, enrollment status, and academic program when evaluating loan applications. Some loans may require a cosigner, while others may offer options for borrowers with limited credit history.
How much can I borrow with a law school loan?
The amount you can borrow with a law school loan depends on various factors, including the cost of attendance, other financial aid received, and the lender’s policies.
Federal loans typically have annual and aggregate borrowing limits, while private loans may offer higher borrowing limits but often require a credit check and may have higher interest rates.
What are the interest rates for law school loans?
Interest rates for law school loans vary depending on the type of loan and the lender. Federal loans typically have fixed interest rates set by Congress, while private loan interest rates may be fixed or variable and are determined by the lender based on factors such as creditworthiness and market conditions.
Can I defer payments on my law school loans while in school?
Many law school loans offer deferment options, allowing students to postpone repayment while enrolled at least half-time in an eligible academic program. Federal loans typically offer in-school deferment automatically, while private lenders may have varying policies regarding deferment options and eligibility criteria.
Are there any discounts or incentives available for law school loans?
Some lenders offer discounts or incentives for borrowers, such as autopay discounts, loyalty rewards, or interest rate reductions for making on-time payments. Federal loans may also offer benefits such as loan forgiveness programs for public service or income-driven repayment plans.
Can I refinance my law school loans after graduation?
Yes, many borrowers choose to refinance their law school loans after graduation to potentially lower their interest rates, adjust their repayment terms, or consolidate multiple loans into a single loan. Refinancing options are available from both private lenders and federal loan servicers, but it’s essential to consider the potential benefits and drawbacks before refinancing.
What happens if I have difficulty repaying my law school loans?
If you encounter financial hardship or difficulty repaying your law school loans, various options may be available to help you manage your debt. These options may include income-driven repayment plans, deferment or forbearance, loan consolidation, or loan forgiveness programs.
It’s essential to contact your loan servicer or lender to explore available options and determine the best course of action for your situation.
How can I find the best law school loan for my needs?
To find the best law school loan for your needs, it’s essential to research and compare loan options from multiple lenders, considering factors such as interest rates, fees, repayment terms, borrower benefits, and customer reviews.
Additionally, consulting with financial aid advisors or trusted professionals can help you make an informed decision based on your individual financial circumstances and academic goals.