Paying the Bill & Borrowing Toolkit
Your Guide to Managing College Costs and Smart Borrowing
Parent PLUS Loan rates have are just under 9% for all borrowers, plus a 4% origination fee. For some, private loans will be a better option. If you have good credit, you can get rates starting under 5% with no fees. Below is our guide to help you take the right steps in choosing your best loan option. We always recommend starting by taking utilizing the Federal Direct Student Loan (FDSL). Be sure to scroll for step-by-step instructions.
Step-By-Step Guide to Choosing the Best Student Loan in 2025:
Step 1: Maximize Federal Direct Student Loans (FDSL)
Step 2: visit CAP's preferred lending partners Ascent Student Loans & College Ave to get pre-approved for two competitive private loan rates (each application is under 3 minutes each).
Step 3: Still want more data? Check out some other lenders:
- Universal state loan programs: Massachusetts , Rhode Island, Iowa
- Full Private Lender Table
Step 4: Lastly, compare your pre-approved rates to the Federal PLUS loan*
Follow these steps above and you'll get a view of the loan rates and terms available to your family so you make an informed, thoughtful borrowing decision.
Featured Lender Spotlight
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- Cover up to 100% of school costs in under 3 minutes
- Quick and easy funding for your education.
- Customer Service Team Just for College Aid Pro
- Dedicated Email: capsupport@ascentfunding.com
- Dedicated Phone Line: 877.685.5780
- No Fees
- No origination fees, no late fees—just simple, transparent terms.
- Auto-Pay Discount
- .5% discount when selecting auto-pay
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Apply in as little as 3 minutes and get an instant credit decision
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Multiple repayment options from deferred to immediate principal and interest
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Choice of how long you take to repay the loan - 5, 8, 10, or 15 years
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0.25% interest rate reduction when you make required payments by automatic debit
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Borrow up to 100% of your cost of attendance (minimum $1,000)
- 100% Covered
- SoFi covers all school-certified costs—yes, everything is taken care of.
- No Fees
- No origination fees, no late fees, and no insufficient funds fees. Simple, clear, and fee-free.
- Save Money
- Save even more with a 0.25% rate discount for autopay and an additional 0.125% off for multiple loans supporting multiple kids in college.
- Cosign with Confidence
- After 12 on-time payments, students can apply to release cosigners from the loan.
Prefer 1:1 Expert Help?
Book a one-hour session for personalized support and expert advice on how to pay for college—with confidence and clarity.
- Reviewing financial aid forms & Evaluating award letters to explore possible appeals for more aid
- Breaking down the final bill & Strategizing how to best use 529 plans and other savings
- Comparing student and parent loan options using our proven process to help you secure the lowest possible interest rate
1:1 Hour with a CAP Expert: $299 $239.20 with coupon code LOANS20 for 20% OFF!
The 1-Minute Guide to Smart Borrowing
Top 3 Borrowing Tips:
1) Take Out The Federal Direct Student Loan: All you have to do is complete the FAFSA. PLUS, your student won’t need a co-signer, it allows them to establish credit & has a competitive fixed interest rate, it’s a no brainer!
2) Understand Your Family's Borrowing Criteria: Who should be on this loan (student, parents, both)? Do you want a co-signer release program? Does it have flexible repayment terms? What matters most to your family?!
3) Shop Around: Don’t take out the first loan you see, shop around and get your rate from multiple lenders before settling on just one!
Walkthrough: Loan Entrance Counseling
Walkthrough: Master Promissory Note
Borrow Smart Webinar Recording
Contact Us:
✉️ support@collegeaidpro