When it comes to student loans, you’ve likely heard the terms consolidation or refinance. You may have thought they mean the same thing. While they’re similar, they are actually two different options for combining your student loans.
Student Loan Consolidation
Direct Loan consolidation is a program offered by the Federal government. This program allows you to combine all of your federal student loans into a single loan. The interest rate for your consolidation loan is a weighted average of all the loans you are consolidating. It is not based on credit, like student loan refinancing. You can also switch your variable interest rate loans to fixed interest rates to avoid paying more interest if variable rates rise. Typically, student loan consolidation doesn’t save you money, but it simplifies your payments into a single monthly payment. You also get to keep your federal student loan benefits, such as income-driven repayment plans and loan forgiveness.
Student Loan Refinancing
Student loan refinancing is a program offered by private lenders. This program combines your federal and private student loans into a new loan with a new term and interest rate. The interest rate of the loan is based on creditworthiness, unlike student loan consolidation. With student loan refinancing, you can pick a term that fits your financial needs and may save you money. However, extending the term of any loan to lower monthly payments means paying more interest in the end. Many lenders offer borrower benefits with student loan refinancing, such as interest rate reductions for auto-debit payments and cosigner release. Keep in mind, if you refinance federal student loans, you no longer have the federal benefits associated with those loans. Find out if student loan refinancing is for you by asking yourself these six questions.
Student loan consolidation or refinance can simplify your student loans into one monthly payment. Just remember there are additional unique benefits to both options. Weigh the benefits of each program to decide the right option for your situation. As with any loan, make sure you fully understand all the terms and conditions.
Nelnet Bank does not provide legal, investment, tax, or financial advice. This page and the information contained herein is for educational purposes only. For specific advice about your unique circumstances, consult with a qualified professional.
Nelnet Bank does not provide legal, investment, tax, or financial advice. This page and the information contained herein is for informational purposes only. This content is not meant to address the circumstances of any particular individual. Nothing contained in this article constitutes a recommendation or endorsement by Nelnet Bank. For specific advice about your unique circumstances, consult with a qualified professional.
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