Guide to FAFSA Income Requirements

What Are the FAFSA Income Limits for Eligibility?

Even if your parents are high earners (or you’re a grad student with a good salary), it’s worth filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA®. While your earnings are a factor on the FAFSA, there are no set income limits to apply or to qualify for aid, and not all programs are based on need. The FAFSA also provides access to non-need-based programs, including institutional merit aid and unsubsidized federal loans.

Regardless of income, It’s generally recommended to fill out the FAFSA as close to its release date as possible. Typically, the FAFSA opens on October 1 for the following academic year.

Read on to learn more about income requirements to be eligible for financial aid and why it’s probably a good idea to fill out the FAFSA.

Key Points

•   Eligibility for need-based grants includes financial need, U.S. citizenship, and enrollment in an eligible program.

•   Work-study programs offer part-time jobs for students with some financial need and require filling out the FAFSA.

•   Subsidized loans cover interest while in school; unsubsidized loans start accruing interest immediately.

•   Early FAFSA submission maximizes financial aid opportunities.

•   Additional funding options include private loans, scholarships, and part-time work.

What Are FAFSA Income Limits?

There is no income maximum when you file the FAFSA as an undergraduate or graduate student to attend college or career school. In other words, any student attending or applying to an eligible school can fill out and submit the online form, even if they or their parents are higher earners.

In addition, there are no simple income cutoffs for financial aid eligibility, in part due to the complexity of financial aid formulas.

In general, to be eligible for financial aid, you’ll need to:

•   Have a high school diploma or a recognized equivalency, such as a GED, or have completed a state-approved home-school high school education

•   Demonstrate financial need (for most programs)

•   Be a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen

•   Have a valid Social Security Number

•   Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment as a regular student in an eligible degree or certificate program

•   Maintain satisfactory academic progress in college if you’re already enrolled. Standards for satisfactory academic progress vary by school


💡 Quick Tip: Make no payments on SoFi private student loans for six months after graduation.

How Are FAFSA Needs Calculated?

Your eligibility for scholarships, grants, work-study, and federal student loans depends on two key factors: your Student Aid Index (SAI) and the school’s cost of attendance (COA).

If you’re a dependent student with divorced parents, the parent who provided more financial support to you during the last 12 months should complete the FAFSA. If both parents provided an equal amount of financial support (or if they don’t support you financially), the parent with the greater income and assets should fill out the FAFSA.

SAI

The Student Aid Index (SAI) is an eligibility index number (ranging from –1500 to 9999990) that a college’s financial aid office uses to determine how much federal aid a student would receive if they attended the school.

SAI is calculated using the information you provide in the FAFSA. The formula assesses you and your parents’ total financial resources (including income and assets), then deducts the minimum amount needed for your family’s normal annual living expenses. The remaining amount may, in part, be allocated for college expenses.

Where you fall on the SAI scale helps your school determine what level of financial support you may need.

Recommended: Harvard University Cost

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attendance (COA) of a college or university refers to the estimated cost of a year of attendance at that school, including tuition, lodging, food, local transportation, and personal expenses.

When financial aid staffers at a college or university calculate the amount of financial aid you can qualify for, they consider your SAI, any other financial assistance you are already receiving, and the school’s COA to determine your financial need.

You can get an estimate of how much financial aid you might qualify for by using the government’s Federal Student Aid Estimator .

Grants and Loans That Require Financial Need

Federal grants and loans that require you to demonstrate financial need in order to qualify include:

•   Federal Pell Grants

•   Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants

•   Federal Work-Study Program

•   Direct Subsidized Loans

Different Kinds of Financial Aid

Submitting the FAFSA puts you in the running for need-based, as well as non-need-based, aid. Depending on your financial profile, here’s what you may be able to get by completing the form.

Pell Grants

The Pell Grant is a need-based financial aid program from the federal government that is designed to help undergraduates from low-income families afford college. The Federal Pell Grant award amount changes yearly. The maximum Pell Grant award for the 2025-26 academic year is $7,395.

The actual amount of Pell Grant you can receive depends on your SAI, the COA at your college or university, your status as a full-time or part-time student, and the amount of time that you will attend school during the academic year.

FSEOG

The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), which typically doesn’t have to be repaid (unless you don’t fulfill your end of the bargain by completing school), goes to students who demonstrate exceptional need, as determined through the FAFSA.

The awards range $100 to $4,000 a year. The amount of money you can get depends not only on your level of need but also on when you apply, the amount of other aid you get, and how much your college or university can offer students.

Work-Study Programs

Work-study is a federal program that helps college students with financial need get part-time jobs either on or off campus to earn money for college. Students are typically responsible for securing their own work-study jobs.

Not all schools offer work-study, so it’s a good idea to reach out to the financial aid offices at the schools you’re interested in to see if they offer the program. To apply for work-study, you simply need to select the box on the FAFSA that indicates you want to be considered for work-study.

Direct Subsidized Loans

A Direct Subsidized Loan is a loan provided by the federal government for students who demonstrate financial need. You do not have to pay interest on the loan while you’re in school, during any deferment, or for six months after you graduate (known as the grace period). The government picks up this tab.

Before receiving the funds from a Direct Subsidized Loan, you need to complete entrance counseling, which goes over your obligation to repay the loan, and sign a master promissory note, which indicates that you agree to the loan terms.

For undergraduate students who get (or got) loans after July 1, 2025 and before July 1, 2026, the interest rate for Direct Subsidized Loans is 6.39%.

Direct Unsubsidized Loans

Like a Direct Subsidized Loan, a Direct Unsubsidized Loan comes from the federal government, but graduate and professional students can also receive these loans.

Unlike Direct Subsidized Loans, Direct Unsubsidized Loans are non-need based and the government does not pay the interest while you’re in school, during any deferment, and during the grace period. You will be responsible for paying all interest, which begins accruing as soon as the loan is dispersed.

For undergraduate students who get (or got) loans after July 1, 2025 and before July 1, 2026, the interest rate for Direct Unsubsidized Loans is 6.39%.

For graduate or professional students, the interest rate for Direct Unsubsidized loans is 7.94%.

It’s worth noting that for both types of Direct loans, you do not need to undergo a credit check in order to qualify. These types of loans also have annual and aggregate loan limits.

Direct PLUS Loan

Parents of undergraduate students and graduate or professional students can receive a Direct PLUS Loan from a school that participates in the Direct Loan Program. Some schools call this loan type a parent PLUS loan or grad PLUS loan to differentiate the two.

For Direct PLUS Loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2025, and before July 1, 2026, the interest rate is 8.94%.

You’ll undergo a credit check as a parent or a graduate/professional student to look for adverse events, but eligibility does not depend on your credit scores.

(Note: As of July 1, 2026, Federal Direct PLUS Loans for graduate students will no longer be available. Federal Direct Loans will remain, however, and are available to graduate and professional students.)


💡 Quick Tip: Parents and sponsors with strong credit and income may find competitive rates on no-fees-required private parent student loans than federal parent PLUS loans. Federal PLUS loans also come with an origination fee.

Beyond Federal Student Loans

Do you have to file the FAFSA? No, it’s not required, but it is a good idea to do so. Schools, states, and other programs also use the FAFSA to determine merit-based grants and scholarships.

Aside from federal loans, here’s a look at other ways to pay for college.

Savings

Some parents, and grandparents, prepare for the task of paying for college well in advance using a tax-advantaged savings account, such as a 529 account. A 529 plan allows your savings to grow tax-free, and some states even offer a tax deduction on your contributions.The advantage of tapping into savings is obvious: You don’t have to borrow funds and pay interest.

Private Student Loans

Private student loans come from a bank, credit union, or other private lender. Loan limits vary by lender, but you can often get up to the total cost of attendance for school. Each lender sets its own interest rate and you can often choose to go with a fixed or variable rate. Unlike some federal loans, qualification is not need-based. However, you will need to undergo a credit check, and students often need a cosigner.

You generally want to exhaust federal loan options before turning to private student loans, since private loans generally don’t offer the borrower protections — like income-based repayment and forbearance — that come with federal student loans.

Grants

Grants, which are typically need-based, are a type of financial aid that students generally don’t have to repay. The federal grant program includes the Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, and Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant.

A student can seek other grants from their state, their college or career school, or another organization.

Scholarships

Scholarships, like grants, are a type of financial aid that you don’t have to pay back. Scholarships are available through a wide variety of sources, including professional organizations, your job or your parents’ jobs, local organizations, religious groups, your college or career school, and more.

There are a number of scholarship finders available online.

Part-Time Work

Even if you don’t qualify for work-study, you can look for a part-time job. If you have the time and energy to pair a part-time job with your studies, you can consider doing so after classes or on the weekends. Part-time work can help you pay for school or additional expenses, such as rent or groceries.

The Takeaway

There are no income limits for filing the FAFSA, and completing it can open the door to a wide range of financial aid opportunities — from need-based grants and work-study programs to merit aid and federal loans. Even if you or your parents earn a higher income, submitting the FAFSA early ensures you won’t miss out on potential opportunities to lower the cost of college.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.


Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

Can you get financial aid if your parents make over $100K?

The U.S. Department of Education doesn’t have an official income cutoff to qualify for federal financial aid. The reason is that the formula for determining need-based aid is complex and involves more than just your parents’ income. Assets, the size of your family, your school’s cost of attendance, and other factors all go into deciding how much aid you can receive.

Also keep in mind that not all financial aid is need-based, including Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans and institutional merit aid. That’s why it’s important to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) each year.

How are FAFSA income limits different for divorced parents?

For the FAFSA®, the parent who provided more financial support to you over the past 12 months is responsible for completing the FAFSA, regardless of who you live with. If the parent who provides greater financial support has remarried, your stepparent’s income and asset information must also be reported on the FAFSA.

Are FAFSA income limits different for independent students?

No. The U.S. Department of Education uses the same formula for calculating aid regardless of whether you are a dependent or independent student.

That said, independent students may receive more aid than dependent students simply because they tend to have less income and fewer assets to report. You can qualify as an independent student if you are at least 24 years old, married, a graduate or professional student, a veteran, a member of the armed forces, an orphan or a ward of the court, or taking care of legal dependents.


About the author

Melissa Brock

Melissa Brock

Melissa Brock is a higher education and personal finance expert with more than a decade of experience writing online content. She spent 12 years in college admission prior to switching to full-time freelance writing and editing. Read full bio.


Photo credit: iStock/Prostock-Studio

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Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Bank, N.A. and its lending products are not endorsed by or directly affiliated with any college or university unless otherwise disclosed.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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What Is the Average Length of Time to Pay Off Student Loans?

Whether you’ve just graduated from college or you’ve been making payments for years, your student loan debt can seem endless. When you take out a federal student loan, the Standard Repayment Plan is currently 10 years. But starting in the summer of 2026, there will be a new Standard Repayment Plan with terms that range from 10 to 25 years, depending on your loan amount.

According to the Education Data Initiative, the average student borrower takes 20 years to pay off their loans. However, this timeline can vary based on factors such as the type of repayment plan and interest.

And, not all loans are treated equally. Your major, amount borrowed, loan type, and chosen career path can all influence how much you could end up paying back. Continue reading to discover steps you can take to help reduce your student loan debt.

Key Points

•   Student loan repayment terms vary significantly, with federal loans currently offering a 10-year standard plan and private loans having terms set by individual lenders.

•   Federal student loans provide multiple repayment options, including income-driven plans that adjust payments based on income, potentially forgiving remaining balances on the Income-Based Repayment plan after a specified period.

•   Borrowers can expedite loan repayment by making extra payments or refinancing, although refinancing may lead to the loss of federal loan benefits like income-driven repayment.

•   Income-driven repayment can lower monthly payments for borrowers in lower-paying jobs, but extending the loan term may increase overall interest costs.

•   Employer assistance for student loans may be available under the CARES Act, allowing tax-free payments up to $5,250 through 2025.

How Long Are Student Loan Terms?

How long it takes to pay off student loans can vary based on a few different factors. There is a specific selection of student loan terms available for federal student loan borrowers. The current Standard Repayment Plan spans 10 years but borrowers can change their repayment plan at any time, without incurring any fees.

The recent U.S. domestic policy bill created a new Standard Repayment Plan that will be introduced in the summer of 2026 and apply to loans issued after July 1, 2026. This Standard Plan has terms that start at 10 years for loan balances less than $25,000 and go up to 25 years for balances over $100,000.

The terms on private student loans are set by the individual lender. Terms are set at the time the loan is borrowed. To adjust the terms of a private student loan, the borrower will generally need to refinance the loan. Check in directly with the private student loan lender.

Federal Student Loan Terms

While most federal student loans use the standard repayment plan, other loans have different options. (And both Direct Consolidation Loans and FFEL Consolidation Loans offer 10- to 30-year repayment terms.)

Here are the current repayment plans that the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) has set up for federal loans.

•   Standard Repayment Plan: up to 10 years

•   Graduated Repayment Plan: up to 10 years

•   Extended Repayment Plan: up to 25 years

•   Income-Driven Repayment Plans, including:

◦   Pay As You Earn (PAYE) Plan: up to 20 years

◦   Income-Based Repayment (IBR) Plan: 20 or 25 years

◦   Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR) Plan: 25 years

The IBR plan forgives any outstanding balances at the end of the term. Borrowers who are on PAYE or ICR can switch to IBR and get credit for their payments. Keep in mind that you may have to pay taxes on the forgiven balance after 2025.


💡 Quick Tip: Ready to refinance your student loan? With SoFi’s no-fees-required loans, you could save thousands. (You may pay more interest over the life of the loan if you refinance with an extended term.)

Private Student Loan Terms

For those who’ve taken out private student loans to pay for school, the payment plan may differ from those with federal loans. Some private lenders have terms that are 10 years like their federal counterparts. Other lenders cap terms at 20 or 25 years.

The repayment timeline for private loans varies — for some private loans, you might have to start paying it back while you’re still in school. And they might have fixed or variable interest rates. Because of this, it’s hard to measure how long it takes the average person to pay off their private student loans.

Recommended: Average Student Loan Debt

Paying Off Your Student Loans Sooner

There are plenty of smart ways to pay off student loans. Most important is that you make your payments on-time each month. But, strategies like making overpayments can help you accelerate your pay-off timeline. Regardless of the type of loan you have, there are steps you can take to help get rid of your student debt sooner than you originally thought.

Pay More Than the Minimum

Paying the minimum might be what you can afford right now. But if you come into some extra cash — whether through a bonus at work, a gift from a relative, or your tax refund — you can use this money toward your student loan balance.

Cutting away at your debt when possible may help shorten the length of your repayment.

Want to pay your student loans off fast?
Understand how student loan
refinancing can help.


Refinance Your Loans

While consolidating your federal student loans with a Direct Consolidation Loan is an option for some, those with private student loans may want to consider refinancing instead.

Refinancing your student loans means a private lender pays off your student loans for you and then you pay back your lender with a new loan, new interest rate, and new terms. Ideally, your interest rate would be lower, which could save you money on interest over the life of the loan. However, your interest charges may increase if you refinance with an extended term.

Refinancing allows you to combine all your loans, private and federal, into one for more streamlined payments. But if the interest rate offered isn’t lower than what you’re currently paying, or there are more fees, you might want to keep your options open.

And keep in mind that when you refinance, you’ll lose your federal loan benefits like income-based repayment or forbearance. If you’d like to continue taking advantage of those benefits, refinancing might not be for you right now. Ultimately, refinancing should be helpful, not cause more stress or create more debt.


💡 Quick Tip: When refinancing a student loan, you may shorten or extend the loan term. Shortening your loan term may result in higher monthly payments but significantly less total interest paid. A longer loan term typically results in lower monthly payments but more total interest paid.

Choosing Another Payment Plan

As mentioned, federal student loan borrowers can change their repayment plan at any time. Calculating your student loan payment is easy with tools like SoFi’s student loan calculator. These calculators can help estimate how much you’ll be paying each month on your student loans. Once you get an estimate, you can more easily decide if you want to choose a new payment plan, stick with your current payment plan, or switch to another.

Income-driven repayment is one option that allows borrowers to lower their monthly payments, though generally, this results in an extended loan term with increased interest costs. Continue reading for more details on income-driven repayment for federal student loans.

Income-Driven Repayment

Income-driven repayment uses your discretionary income and family size to determine how much you pay on a monthly basis. This can be helpful for those in entry-level, lower-paying positions, as they could pay less monthly early on.

As your financial situation improves, your monthly payment minimum increases in turn (and vice versa). Remember that income-based repayment often has a longer term, which could mean you end up paying more interest over the life of your loans. Three types of income-driven repayment include PAYE, IBR, and ICR plans.

Due to recent legislation, the PAYE and ICR plans will be eliminated soon, and a new income-driven option called the Repayment Assistance Plan will be introduced in 2026.

Income-Based Repayment (IBR)

IBR sets payments at 10% of discretionary income for loans borrowed after July 1, 2014 and 15% for loans borrowed before that date. Newer borrowers have a repayment term of 20 years, while those with older loans have a term of 25 years. IBR should offer loan forgiveness at the end of your term, though the DOE has paused processing IBR forgiveness applications while it updates its systems.

Pay As You Earn (PAYE)

On the PAYE Plan, loan repayment takes place over 20 years. Payments are 10% of your discretionary income, but never more than what you would pay on the standard 10-year repayment plan.

Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR)

The loan repayment term for the ICR Plan is 25 years. Loan payments can be either 20% of your discretionary income or the value of what you’d pay on a fixed payment repayment plan over 12 years — whichever is lesser in value.

Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP)

RAP will become an option for borrowers in the summer of 2026. It will also be the only income-driven repayment option for loans issued after July 1 of that year. RAP sets your payment at 1% to 10% of your adjusted gross income (AGI) each year. It offers forgiveness after 30 years of payments.

Exploring Your Employee Benefits

Your job might be able to help you with your student loan debt. Under the CARES Act, employers may pay up to $5,250 as tax-free student loan payments for employees through Dec. 31, 2025. Here are some employers who might help you pay your loans.

Refinance Your Student Loans With SoFi

You can refinance student loans to ideally secure a lower interest rate, which could reduce the amount of money you’ll owe over the life of the loan. It’s also possible to adjust your repayment term — though keep in mind that while extending your term will result in lower payments, it may increase your interest costs over the life of the loan. You’ll also lose access to federal repayment plans, forgiveness programs, and other benefits if you refinance federal student loans with a private lender.

Refinancing at SoFi is easy — it takes a few minutes to fill out a simple, online application. Qualifying borrowers can secure competitive interest rates, and there are no required fees. Plus, as a SoFi member, you’ll gain access to other benefits like exclusive events and financial planning.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.

With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.


SoFi Student Loan Refinance
Terms and conditions apply. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are private loans. When you refinance federal loans with a SoFi loan, YOU FORFEIT YOUR ELIGIBILITY FOR ALL FEDERAL LOAN BENEFITS, including all flexible federal repayment and forgiveness options that are or may become available to federal student loan borrowers including, but not limited to: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, extended repayment plans, PAYE or SAVE. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers.
Learn more at SoFi.com/eligibility. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Grants For College—Find Free Money for Students

Grants for College — Find Free Money for Students

College grants are a type of financial aid that can be used to pay for tuition, room and board, and related school expenses. Unlike college loans, grants do not need to be paid back, which is why they are often referred to as “free money” for college. For this reason, they can be a highly sought-after form of educational funding.

Grants are typically awarded based on financial need, though, in some cases, merit comes into play. Either way, getting grants can be competitive. Read on for a closer look at how grants work, including common eligibility requirements, and how to find and apply for grants.

Key Points

•   College grants provide free money for tuition, room and board, and other school expenses, and typically do not need to be repaid.

•   Federal grants, including Pell Grants and FSEOG, are awarded based on financial need and require filling out the FAFSA.

•   Some grants, such as the TEACH Grant, require recipients to fulfill service obligations to avoid having to repay.

•   State governments, private organizations, and nonprofits also offer grants for specific student demographics or career fields.

•   Students should apply for grants early, as some are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

College Grants vs Scholarships — What’s the Difference?

Scholarships and grants for college both represent “gift aid,” since the money generally does not have to be repaid. Dropping out of college or switching to part-time enrollment are a couple of exceptions that may require paying back a grant or scholarship.

The main difference between grants and scholarships is that grants tend to be based on financial need, whereas scholarships are more commonly awarded based on a student’s achievements or merit. Scholarships may also be offered to students of a specific ethnicity or group, such as Native Americans or the LGBT community.

The source of funding also tends to differ. Funds for college grants typically come from the federal and state government, whereas scholarships are usually offered through private companies, colleges and universities, non-profits, and other organizations.

Another distinction between grants vs. scholarships is the application process. To apply for grant opportunities, you generally just need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). To apply for scholarships, you often need to fill out a separate application (which may require writing an essay) for each scholarship.

Types of Federal College Grants

Federal grants for students attending community college, career schools, and four-year colleges are offered through the U.S. Department of Education. Here is a list of federal grants for college students.

Pell Grants

The Pell Grant is the Department of Education’s largest grant program. Pell Grant funding changes from year to year, and is geared towards students who demonstrate significant financial need. The maximum Pell Grant total for the 2025-2026 award year is $7,395.

The amount an eligible student receives is calculated according to enrollment status, cost of attendance, Student Aid Index (SAI) (formerly called the Expected Family Contribution, or EFC), and duration of study.

It’s worth noting that Pell Grants cannot be received alongside substantial non-federal grant aid as of the 2026-27 school year. Often, a Pell Grant is awarded in combination with other federal financial aid, such as work-study and subsidized student loans.

Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

The FSEOG program is another grant for students with exceptional financial need to pay for college expenses. FSEOG awards range between $100 and $4,000 a year.

Individual grant totals are calculated by overall financial need, timing of the application, total financial aid, and funding availability within the college.

Though FSEOG is funded through the Department of Education, it is administered by participating schools — and not every college participates. Check with a college’s financial aid office to learn if FSEOG is an option for assistance.

Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants

This program has more specific criteria than financial need alone. Students may qualify for a grant if their parent or guardian died while serving in the U.S. armed forces in Iraq or Afghanistan after 9/11.

Age restrictions typically apply as well, and additional requirements for the Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant include failing to qualify for a Pell Grant due to Expected Family Contribution/Student Aid Index but satisfying the remaining eligibility Pell Grant criteria.

Grant funding is equal to the maximum Pell Grant award for any given year. Thus, grants can be up to $7,395 for 2025-2026, depending on financial need and the cost of attendance at the applicant’s college.

TEACH Grants

The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant program offers awards up to $4,000 per academic year for students pursuing a career in teaching.

Compared to other federal grants for college, TEACH grants carry more stringent requirements. For instance, recipients must fulfill a service obligation of teaching in a high-need subject area at a school or educational service agency for at least four academic years within eight years of completing TEACH grant-funded studies.

Otherwise, the TEACH grant is converted into a direct unsubsidized loan which must be repaid in full with interest accrued from the date of the initial award.

To qualify for a TEACH grant, students must attend a participating school and achieve high academic performance (GPA of at least 3.25 or college admissions test scores above the 75th percentile). Additionally, recipients must partake in counseling sessions and sign a TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve.

Applying for Federal College Grants

Students looking for federal grants for college can begin the process by filling out the FAFSA. The FAFSA considers factors like the student income and parental income and assets to calculate the SAI (formerly called the EFC), which is used by schools to determine how much money students are eligible to receive.

After completing the FAFSA, students will receive a financial aid package from each college they applied and have been accepted to. This includes a breakdown of any eligible financial assistance, including grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans.

Take note that students need to fill out the FAFSA every year they’re enrolled in college to be eligible for grant awards and other financial assistance.

Since some grants are awarded on a first-come-first-served basis, be sure to pay attention to FAFSA deadlines, and submit the form as early as possible.

Other College Grants for Students

In addition to federal grant programs, there are opportunities to get free money for college from state governments, nonprofits, and private organizations.

State Grants

There are state-level grants for students to consider too. For example, there are numerous California scholarship and grant opportunities to help students pay for school. Every year, the Cal Grant provides tens of thousands of awards to undergraduate, vocational, and teacher certification students.

Filling out and submitting the FAFSA may automatically make you eligible for certain state grants. In some cases, though, you might also have to apply to your state’s education department.

To find funding in any given state, you can use the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators online database .

Keep in mind that some state government scholarship and grant programs have different deadlines than FAFSA.

College Grants for Women

There are a variety of college grants geared specifically to women. Here are a couple grant programs women can apply to for college and graduate school.

•   Program for Continuing Education Grant : The Philanthropic Education Organization offers one-time need-based grants, to a maximum of $4,000, for women in the U.S. and Canada to put towards college and education-related expenses.

•   Career Development Grant : The American Association of University Women provides grants between up to $8,000 to female students pursuing an advanced degree or certificate.

Finding Additional Grants

In addition to state and federal grants or grants, private companies and nonprofits may also offer grants. Students may have to do a little leg work to find these opportunities, but a chance at free money for college can be worth a little time invested up front. Online databases like Scholarships.com have a variety of grant opportunities for students to peruse.

Other Ways to Pay for College

College grants are a helpful way for eligible students to pay for school and reduce student debt. Including government sources, over $100 billion in grant and scholarship money is awarded every year.

Even so, many students require additional financing to pay for college. Of course, if family members have saved money toward college costs, that can certainly help.

Federal student loans can provide funding. Filling out the FAFSA, as noted above, is part of the application process. If grants, other aid, and federal student loans are enough to cover the cost of your college education, you may want to consider applying for a private student loan. These are available through private lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Loan limits vary by lender, but you can often get up to the total cost of attendance, which is more than you can borrow from the federal government. Interest rates may be fixed or variable and are set by the lender. Generally, borrowers (or cosigners) who have strong credit qualify for the lowest rates.

Keep in mind, though, that private loans may not offer the borrower protections — like income-based repayment and deferment or forbearance — that automatically come with federal student loans.

The Takeaway

Grants for college can be a valuable way to pay for your education. Grants provide what is essentially free money, meaning you don’t need to repay the funds received. Grants are often awarded based on financial need, but merit may sometimes come into play. If grants don’t help close any gaps in financing your education, private student loans could be an option to consider.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.


Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

How can I get grant money for college?

Typically, getting grant money for college begins with completing the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants. You can also research what is available at a state and local level, and check with your school’s financial aid office for more leads.

What is the most common grant for college students?

The most common grant for college students is the Federal Pell Grant, which currently has a maximum award of $7,395.

How much of a $5,000 college grant do you have to repay?

Unlike loans, grants for college costs typically do not need to be repaid. It is considered free money. However, some grants do have conditions and qualifying features that could lead to repayment obligations if not satisfied. For this reason, it’s important to read and understand the fine print.


Photo credit: iStock/Deejpilot

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SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

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Applying to Graduate School: Smart Tips and Strategies

Applying for Graduate School: Tips for Success

Attending graduate school and securing a postgrad degree can help some students achieve their career goals, and it may even be required in some fields. While applying to grad school is similar to applying to college, there are some key differences to keep in mind. Graduate school programs also tend to be more competitive than undergraduate degree programs.

If you’re thinking about going to grad school, here are simple strategies that can help you navigate the graduate school application process, including how to create an application timeline, write an effective personal statement, and make a plan for covering the cost of tuition and expenses.

Key Points

•   Graduate school applications can require a thoughtful approach, including defining career goals and selecting programs that align with personal interests and professional aspirations.

•   Establishing a timeline for the application process is important, often needing research and preparation at least two years in advance to meet all requirements.

•   Crafting a compelling statement of purpose and personal statement can be critical, highlighting relevant experiences and motivations specific to each program.

•   Exploring financial aid options, including federal aid, scholarships, and grants, can alleviate the costs associated with graduate school.

•   Considering alternative funding methods, such as private loans or employer reimbursement plans, may be necessary after exhausting federal options for financial support.

4 Tips and Strategies to Prepare for the Grad School Application Process

Below are some simple steps that can make it easier to find and apply to the right graduate school program.

Choosing the Right Graduate School

As you develop your list of both safety and reach schools, a good number of how many graduate schools to apply to is often between four and six.

If you’re still in the early stages of exploring schools and mulling over which graduate program to pursue, now’s the time to weigh your interests, skills, talents, and career goals to find a few options that may make sense to apply to.

Here are some questions to ask as you search for the right grad school:

•  Which degree path do you want to pursue?

•  Does your chosen career encourage a Ph.D. or a Master’s degree?

•  Do the schools you’re considering offer that program?

•  What is the cost of tuition?

•  Are scholarships available, either full-ride or partial?

•  Is the degree program accredited?

•  Does this school have excellent professors?

•  Will this degree facilitate your entry into the career of your choice?

Grad School Application Timeline

There’s plenty of prep work that must happen months before you start applying to graduate school. One way to alleviate some stress and make sure all of the necessary application requirements are met is to start early. Here’s a timeline to keep in mind.

Two Years Before Applying: Research Schools and Programs

Narrow down the programs of interest and your career goals about two years before you plan to apply.

One Year Before Applying

•  Prepare for any standardized tests required for admission. Some programs may require students to submit GRE scores, while others may require the GMAT (which can be especially important for MBA programs). Law students will generally need to take the LSAT and future med school attendees can anticipate taking the MCAT.

•  Start gathering application materials. This could include things like college transcripts, letters of recommendation, and prepping for any personal statements that may be required (more tips on that to follow).

Year of Grad School

Generally, graduate school applications open up about nine months before a student would be expected to start classes. Some programs may accept applications on a rolling basis. It’s generally wise to apply as soon as all of your application materials are ready to go.

Refining Your Graduate School Statement of Purpose and Personal Statement

The statement of purpose for graduate school (sometimes called a letter of intent or a research statement) is where you detail your future plans and how the school you’re applying to can help you achieve those goals.

Students who are applying to multiple schools may need to tweak their statement of purpose slightly to meet different application requirements, but in general, there are a few common threads that are included in a statement of purpose. These include:

•  What do you want to study at graduate school?

•  Why do you want to study it?

•  What experience do you have in that field? How would you add value to the existing program?

•  What do you plan to do with your degree once you have it?

To craft a successful graduate school statement, you’ll want to create an outline and make sure you highlight your relevant experience and motivation for applying to this specific graduate school and program. You want your statement to stand out and target the school you are applying to; avoid writing the same statement of purpose for each school.

A personal statement, meanwhile, lets the admissions committees see you as a person, including your goals and passions and what you are hoping to get out of the program. Personal statements are generally more biographical in nature than a statement of purpose. It may highlight things like your passion for a particular field or help you demonstrate characteristics that will help you excel in grad school.

Recommended: Graduate Student Loan Limits: How Much Can You Get?

Options for Paying for Graduate School

There are a variety of ways to pay for graduate school.

Federal Aid

As a first step, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is used to determine what federal financial assistance students may qualify for. Often, people applying for graduate school are considered independent students on the FAFSA. Independent students are not required to include their parents’ financial information on their FAFSA application.

Submitting the FAFSA allows students to apply for all federal aid, including:

•  Federal student loans

•  Grants

•  Scholarships

•  Work-study program

Scholarships and Grants from Your University

Take a look at the aid options available specific to the school you will be attending (or the schools you are applying to). It may be possible to apply for additional scholarships, grants, and fellowships depending on the program.

Universities sometimes use the FAFSA to make financial aid determinations, but some have their own application process. Again, check the graduate school website to find out relevant deadlines and procedures.

Recommended: How to Become a Graduate Assistant

Possibilities Beyond Federal or University Aid

Other possibilities include employer tuition reimbursement plans, private scholarships, and private graduate student loans.

Private student loans usually don’t have the borrower protections offered by federal student loans (things like deferment or forbearance, income-driven repayment, and Public Service Loan Forgiveness), so you may want to consider them only after you’ve exhausted other forms of aid.

After graduating, some students may consider student loan refinancing. Qualifying borrowers can often secure a competitive interest rate or preferable terms. Refinancing federal student loans, however, will mean they no longer qualify for any federal borrower protections or programs.


💡 Quick Tip: Master’s degree or graduate certificate? Private or federal student loans can smooth the path to either goal.

The Takeaway

Applying to graduate school doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start by defining your career goals and determine which programs you want to apply to. From there, review the application requirements and set an application timeline. The steps involved in applying to graduate school include taking any required standardized tests, getting letters of recommendation, and writing a statement of purpose. Also consider how you will pay for the cost of graduate school. Options include federal student loans, scholarships, grants, and private student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.


Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

What is the process for applying to graduate school?

Typically, the process for applying to graduate school involves determining which programs to apply for, taking standardized tests, getting letters of recommendation, writing your statement of purpose or personal essay, and submitting your materials. Applying for financial aid can be another important facet of applying to grad school.

Is a 3.5 GPA good enough for grad school?

What GPA you need for grad school depends on the program you are applying to and your overall application package details. A 3.5 GPA is considered good by many measures, but for some highly competitive programs, it may not be enough.

How long does it take to hear back from grad school?

The timing of receiving a graduate school acceptance decision can vary. Typically, applicants who applied during the fall application season will hear back between February and April. However, programs may have rolling admissions, meaning applicants hear back based on when they apply.


About the author

Julia Califano

Julia Califano

Julia Califano is an award-winning journalist who covers banking, small business, personal loans, student loans, and other money issues for SoFi. She has over 20 years of experience writing about personal finance and lifestyle topics. Read full bio.



SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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6 Reasons to Go to College

When deciding whether to go to college, there are numerous factors to consider, including the benefits of higher education personally and professionally, the time commitment involved, and the availability of financial aid and loans. And while the price of a college degree continues to increase, it’s an investment that can have major payoffs, financially and otherwise.

Going to college can open doors to new experiences, both during and after getting a degree. While the financial opportunities that college can bring are certainly worth considering, there are so many other advantages to getting an undergraduate degree. Here’s a look at some of the top benefits to becoming a college grad.

Key Points

•   Among the reasons to attend college is the personal growth derived from exploring interests through diverse college courses and activities.

•   College graduates often earn more over their lifetimes compared to those with only high school diplomas.

•   A college education can unlock various career paths and opportunities not available otherwise.

•   Attending college helps build a wider social and professional network, crucial for future success.

•   Critical thinking and communication skills are significantly developed during college, aiding in personal and professional life.

Explore Areas of Interest

Some students enter college already knowing what they want their college major to be. Whether someone’s a star chemistry student going pre-med or a drama nerd ready to delve into theater, college can be a time to deepen the interests students have cultivated throughout their education.

Declaring a major sets a student up to explore a particular subject from all angles, becoming somewhat of an expert in their chosen field. A student will take numerous courses in their major, sometimes culminating in a thesis project on a specialized subject.

There are often clubs and activities in each major field, allowing students to develop communities with others who have shared interests, broadening the scope of their education.

College can also be a time to explore new areas, and can give students the chance to discover subjects they may not have known much about before.

College students are often encouraged to explore new subjects, especially in their freshman year, in order to experiment, and perhaps find a new and promising area of study.

Going to college can be a way to deepen one’s understanding of a particular subject, whether it’s something a student may have studied previously, or a completely new topic.

Either way, getting a degree is a way to open your mind and tap into a sense of intellectual curiosity in an environment conducive to rigorous and serious academic exploration.

Increase Earnings

One of the most practical arguments for going to college is to improve your earning potential. The Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities reviewed the impact a college degree could have on someone’s earning potential and found that those with a college degree earned 86% more than those whose highest level of education was a high school diploma. And while actually achieving that college degree may cost a lot, a majority of college graduates believe it was worth it.

Like any investment, there has to be money put in up front, unless you get a full scholarship or a college loan. Ideally, that upfront investment of time and money will pay off in the long run.

Recommended: Return on Education for Bachelor’s Degrees

Open Up Potential Career Paths

While a college degree may have been a way to stand out from the crowd in the past, today it’s proving to be a prerequisite for most jobs. What’s more, research suggests that, generally, the higher the level of educational attainment, the larger the payoff in terms of salary.

While going to college can be a highly rewarding experience in itself, it can be wise to consider possible career paths while selecting courses and deciding on a major. However, there is nothing wrong with getting a liberal arts education. Employers may not necessarily be looking for a specific specialization when hiring, but often may appreciate someone with a well-rounded academic background.

Certain fields, however, like business and medicine, may require that students’ major field corresponds to their choice of career. When exploring different subjects during college, you might find out about a new area you want to pursue as a career, a huge benefit of getting an undergraduate degree as well.

Recommended: Is Getting A Degree in Marketing Worth It?

Expand Your Circle

College can be a time to build the relationships that will greatly affect your life — and possibly your career. Over the course of the four years it takes to complete a bachelor’s degree, there are countless opportunities to make new connections — from the people in your dorm, to your classmates, to those you meet through extracurriculars.

College can be a time to develop a wide and varied circle or to simply grow several deep and lasting friendships. It can also be a time to meet a romantic partner, whether the relationship is short- or longer-term.

Having a wide circle can help out in a variety of ways. From finding post-grad roommates to knowing people in the field of work you’re trying to get into, college connections can be an invaluable resource in life.

Improve Critical Thinking and Communication

The so-called “soft skills” of being a good listener or critical thinking are also in high demand by employers, and college can be a prime time to develop them. These are skills that can be honed both in and outside the classroom, and college aims to give students a well-rounded experience that helps them develop both socially and academically.

Gain Independence

It’s common to be nervous about college, especially if it’s your first time away from home. But once you’re over the hump, living on your own can be an extremely fun and rewarding experience.

College can be a chance to dip your toes in the waters of independence, experimenting with living alone, gaining some financial independence, maintaining a budget, and deciding what classes to take.

College can be the ideal stepping stone toward independence, and is a helpful way for young adults to see what adulthood can be like.

Deciding on the Right Path

While making the decision whether or not to go to college is not always easy, there are a host of good reasons to continue your education. The benefits can be financial, social, and intellectual, and can continue to be felt throughout your life.

The friends and connections you make during college can enrich your life and help you to network in your chosen field of work, while the financial security a college degree can offer is a major factor in the decision-making process as well. It’s important to make an informed decision, taking all of these points into consideration.

If the high cost of college is holding you back, keep in mind that there are a number of funding options that can help you manage the costs. To apply for financial aid, you simply need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will tell you whether you are eligible for grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and federal student loans.

If you still have gaps in funding, you can also apply for a private student loan. Private student loans are available through private lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates and terms vary, depending on the lender. Generally, borrowers (or cosigners) who have strong credit qualify for the lowest rates.

Keep in mind, though, that private loans may not offer the borrower protections — like income-based repayment and deferment or forbearance — that automatically come with federal student loans.

The Takeaway

Deciding whether to attend college is a major decision. On the plus side, it can build your skills, help you be career-ready, pay off by increasing your earning power, and lead to greater personal and professional opportunities. However, a key downside is the cost of college. If you choose to attend, researching grants and scholarships, as well as federal and private student loans, can be a wise move as you figure out how to fund your education.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.


Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

What is the best reason to go to college?

While there’s no single best reason to go to college, many graduates cite the opportunity to build their job opportunities and earning power.

How can college help you?

College can help you gain critical thinking and independent living skills, build a career path and earning power, and develop confidence and a social and professional network.

Why are some members of Gen Z not going to college?

According to some surveys, Gen Z may be skipping college due to the high cost. Grants, scholarships, and federal and private student loans can help make higher education attainable.


SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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