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Is 570 a Good Credit Score?


Is 570 a Good Credit Score?

570 credit score

On this page:

    By Dan Miller

    A 570 credit score is considered “poor” and is significantly lower than the average credit score of 717. Borrowers with a 570 credit score may find it difficult to qualify for credit cards, mortgages, and other types of lending products. And if they are approved, it may only be for financial products with high interest rates and fees.

    Learn what a 570 credit score means, what loan products you may qualify for, and ways to improve your score.

    Key Points

    •   A 570 credit score is categorized as poor, making it difficult to secure loans or credit cards with favorable terms.

    •   Borrowers with this score often face higher interest rates and fees when approved for financial products.

    •   Secured credit cards, which require a deposit, can be a viable option for building credit.

    •   For auto loans, individuals may need to provide a larger down payment and will likely face higher interest rates.

    •   Improving a 570 credit score involves timely bill payments, low credit utilization, and regular credit report checks.

    What Does a 570 Credit Score Mean?

    As we mentioned, 570 is a poor credit score. A borrower with this score may have had issues managing their debt, or they could simply lack a credit history.

    Here’s how FICO® Score — which is used in the vast majority of lending decisions — ranks credit scores. The higher the number, the better the credit score.

    •   300-579: Poor

    •   580-669: Fair

    •   670-739: Good

    •   740-799: Very good

    •   800 or more: Excellent

    It’s important to keep an eye on your credit score. Not only does it indicate how likely you are to pay back a loan or credit on time, lenders often use it when making lending decisions, such as for personal loans.

    If you have a 570 credit score, lenders may see you as a risky borrower. You might find it challenging to qualify for lower interest rates and larger loan amounts. You might also have a difficult time getting approved for credit cards with lower APRs and attractive perks, like cash back.

    What Else Can You Get with a 570 Credit Score?

    A 570 credit score may negatively impact your ability to qualify for many loan programs or other types of credit. Let’s take a closer look at some different scenarios.

    Can I Get a Credit Card with a 570 Credit Score?

    While you may qualify for a credit card with a 570 credit score, your options might be limited. What’s more, some credit card issuers could also require you to pay extra fees or put down deposits on your card.

    You may want to look into cards designed for applicants with lower credit scores. A secured credit card, for example, requires a security deposit that acts as collateral in case the cardholder defaults on their payments. When managed responsibly, these cards can be an effective way to build credit.

    If you have high-interest credit card debt, a credit card consolidation loan could be worth exploring. You can transfer multiple balances to a single loan — ideally one with a better rate — which could reduce monthly payments and streamline bill paying.

    Can I Get an Auto Loan with a 570 Credit Score?

    Typically, you need a credit score of 600 to qualify for an auto loan, but some lenders may be willing to work with buyers who have a lower credit score. If you are approved for a loan with a 570 credit score, you could be charged a higher interest rate or have to put down a higher down payment than borrowers with better credit scores.

    Can I Get a Mortgage with a 570 Credit Score?

    Getting a mortgage with a 570 credit score isn’t impossible, but be prepared to have fewer options. You may also have to pay a higher interest rate and put down a larger deposit. For example, borrowers with a credit score as low as 500 might qualify for an FHA loan, but they’ll likely need to have a down payment of at least 10%.

    Can I Get a Personal Loan with a 570 Credit Score?

    It’s possible that you will be able to qualify for some personal loan options with a 570 credit score. However, as with other types of financial products, you may have fewer options to choose from than a borrower with a better credit score.

    One of the main metrics lenders examine when reviewing a personal loan application is the applicant’s credit score. Typically, the lower your credit score, the more challenging it is to get approved for a loan. And if you are approved, you could pay higher interest rates.

    A personal loan calculator can help you explore options for your specific financial situation and look for potential ways to save on interest.

    How to Build Your Credit Score

    If your credit score isn’t where you want it to be, there are steps you can take to improve it before you apply for a loan or credit card. Here are some credit-building strategies to consider:

    •   Pay your bills on time.

    •   Keep your credit utilization low.

    •   Keep older accounts open.

    •   Apply for new credit only when needed.

    •   Regularly check your credit reports for errors and fix any inaccuracies you see.

    The Takeaway

    Is 570 a good credit score? According to FICO, it’s in the “poor” range. Many lenders use an applicant’s FICO Score as a major determining factor when deciding whether to approve a loan application. With a 570 credit score, you may be approved for some lending products, but you may be charged a higher interest rate and have less-desirable terms than borrowers with better credit scores. If your score is on the lower end, it may be a good idea to work on improving your credit score before you apply for a credit card or personal loan.

    Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.


    SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.

    View your rate

    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.


    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.



    Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

    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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    Is 611 a Good Credit Score?


    Is 611 a Good Credit Score?

    611 credit score

    On this page:

      By Lauren Ward

      A credit score of 611 does not qualify as good. That designation usually applies to scores between 670 and 739. A 611 score falls in the next lowest range known as fair, which is a notch above poor.

      While you can still qualify for some forms of credit, such as credit cards and installment loans, with a 611 score, you will likely have to pay higher interest rates than people with higher scores. In addition, you may not have as flexible terms nor as rich rewards. Learn the details here.

      Key Points

      •   A credit score of 611 is considered fair, which is the category below the good range.

      •   Individuals with a 611 credit score can still qualify for credit, but with higher interest rates and less favorable terms.

      •   A 611 credit score is more than 100 points lower than the current U.S. average of 717.

      •   Financing options with a 611 credit score can include credit cards, auto loans, and certain mortgages, but likely with restrictions.

      •   Tips to improve your credit score include paying on time, keeping credit utilization low, maintaining a long credit history, avoiding excessive inquiries, and having a good credit mix.

      What Does a 611 Credit Score Mean?

      A credit score of 611 puts you in the fair category, which isn’t high enough to be considered good.

      Credit scores commonly range from 300 (the lowest score possible) to 850 (the highest score). Here’s how the FICO® Score, a leading credit-scoring model, breaks down its credit categories:

      •   Under 580: Poor

      •   580-669: Fair

      •   670-739: Good

      •   740-799: Very good

      •   800 or more: Exceptional or excellent

      A 611 is on the lower end of the fair category. You would have to build your score to 670 to qualify as having good credit.

      It’s also worth noting that the average American’s credit score is a 717 — over 100 points higher. This can be encouraging to know that many people have built their scores this high.

      So what does this mean for people wondering if 611 is a bad credit score? The answer is that, while it’s better than a poor score, it’s below average, which means you may have a harder time qualifying for certain types of financing. And if you do qualify, you’ll pay a higher interest rate than if you had a higher score.

      What Factors Cause a 611 Credit Score?

      Credit scoring models look at five types of information on your credit report:

      •   Payment history, meaning paying on-time

      •   Amounts owed vs. credit limit

      •   Length of credit history (being new to credit can negatively impact your score)

      •   New credit requests (making numerous new credit inquiries over the past two years can pull your score down)

      •   Credit mix, meaning if you have successfully managed different types of credit, such as both an installment loan and a line of credit, it can help build your score.

      You can check your credit score for free on a regular basis. When you check your score with a credit service, you may also get personalized feedback on how to improve your number.

      What Else Can You Get With a 611 Credit Score?

      Different types of financing come with different types of credit score criteria. In general, you may face some challenges accessing credit with a fair score of 611. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of loans, as well as credit cards, to give you a sense of how you can qualify with a 611 credit score and what kind of tradeoffs to expect.

      Can I Get a Credit Card With a 611 Credit Score?

      A 611 credit score could be enough to help you qualify for a credit card. However, a card you are approved for may have some drawbacks like a higher interest rate and a spending cap that’s below the average credit limit. What’s more, you likely won’t gain access to the perks that those with higher scores may enjoy, such as getting cash back and earning points.

      When you apply for a credit card, your application is based on your credit score as well as a few other factors, including your income, debt-to-income ratio, and credit utilization. Using a credit card approval odds calculator can help you gauge what cards you might qualify for. That way, you don’t add extra inquiries to your credit report by applying for cards that are out of reach. Every hard inquiry takes about five points off your credit report for a few months or longer, and having too many can raise a red flag to creditors.

      Here’s what you may qualify for:

      •   An unsecured credit card, but you will likely have a less favorable interest rate and terms than would be offered to those with higher scores.

      •   A secured card, which involves making a down payment that serves as the card’s credit limit. This can mean that you won’t be able to spend freely, but by paying your bill on time every month, you can build your credit score. In some cases, after paying bills by the deadline for a period of time, you may move up to an unsecured card.

      •   A retail or store card. These only grant you credit at an individual store or chain of stores, but these cards give you the benefits of a card and, with responsible card use, can help you build credit (providing the issuer reports usage to the credit bureaus).

      Keep in mind, however, that credit cards typically carry high interest charges, and with a fair credit score, you are probably going to face higher interest rates than those with better scores. Be sure you can repay what you owe: Paying the full balance monthly can allow you to avoid interest charges.

      Another note: If you do access credit cards and then find that you are carrying significant credit card debt, you might consider a credit card consolidation loan. These allow you to transfer one or multiple lines of credit into an installment loan, often at a significantly lower interest rate.

      Can I Get an Auto Loan With a 611 Credit Score?

      Having a 611 credit score for a car loan shouldn’t stop you from financing your vehicle. This type of financing is secured by the vehicle itself, so there’s less risk to the lender. If a borrower defaults on payments, the lender can repossess the vehicle and sell it to cover the outstanding balance.

      Even though you could qualify with a 611 credit score, you’ll have to pay a higher interest rate, which means you’ll pay more for the vehicle over time. An example: According to Experian, in a recent study, a person with a 611 credit score who was seeking a loan for a new car could expect to pay 9.83% interest rate, while a person with a 781 score would pay 5.25% interest.

      The good news is that financing a car can help you build credit if you regularly make your payments on time. You also don’t have to worry about rate-shopping for an auto loan counting as multiple credit inquiries, which can lower your credit score. Lenders typically lump all auto loan inquiries from a 45-day period as a single item on your credit report. That’s because you’re probably not applying for several car loans at the same time; it’s more likely that you’re checking several options.

      Can I Get a Mortgage With a 611 Credit Score?

      Every lender has its own credit score criteria for different types of home loans, but typically, for a conventional loan, you need a credit score of 620 or higher.

      While a 611 score doesn’t meet this requirement, there are three programs designed for homebuyers with lower scores.

      •   FHA loan: To qualify for an FHA home loan with a 3.5% down payment, you’ll need at least a 580 credit score. So you can likely qualify for this with a 611 score. Borrowers with a 500 to 579 score may also still qualify. They’ll need a 10% down payment on the home.

      •   USDA loan: Used for homes in designated rural communities, a USDA loan doesn’t have a firm minimum credit score. According to USDA guidelines, a borrower with a 611 credit score may need to provide additional documents, like housing payment history and references, as compared to those with higher scores.

      •   VA loans: It can be harder to qualify for a VA loan with a 611 credit score, but it’s not impossible. This program for veterans, active service members, and surviving spouses, usually has a minimum score of 620. But some lenders may still approve a borrower with a lower score if they provide extra documentation.

      No matter what kind of home loan you consider, the minimum credit score to buy a house can vary by lender. It can be wise to ask up front about preapproval and prequalification options as you consider the mortgage process.

      Can I Get a Personal Loan With a 611 Credit Score?

      A personal loan can provide access to a lump sum of cash to be used for almost any purpose, such as funding a vacation or paying off a medical bill. This popular option typically offers a fixed interest rate, which is often significantly lower than what you’d pay if you charged a purchase to your credit card. The term of the loan is usually between two and seven years, and the principal can be flexible, ranging from, say, $1,000 up to $100,000.

      You may qualify for a personal loan with a 611 credit score, but you’ll probably pay higher interest rates than someone who has a higher score. On top of that, you may not be eligible for a large loan amount with that score and other factors, such as if you have a high debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. Your DTI represents how your monthly debt payments compare to how much you earn a month. If you already have lots of credit card debt with a high monthly minimum, or other payments like auto loans, student loans, and even your mortgage, you may have a high DTI.

      The overall cost of borrowing is key when you’re considering a personal loan. Credit cards are convenient and useful for smaller, everyday amounts or purchases that might earn points. But even unsecured personal loans tend to have lower interest rates than credit cards, which can make them a good choice for larger expenses. And knowing you’ll have a fixed payment to make every month can help you stay disciplined and on track.

      A personal loan calculator can help you compare different terms from various lenders, including interest rate, length of repayment term, loan amount, and the total cost of financing. That way you can work to keep your payments and interest as low as possible while also looking for the right loan amount for your financial needs.

      The Takeaway

      A credit score of 611 isn’t good. Rather, it’s considered fair, which is the category below good. With that score, you may find that access to credit is somewhat limited. The loans and lines of credit that are available likely have higher interest rates and less favorable terms than those offered to people with higher scores. If that doesn’t suit you, an option is to delay accessing credit until you have built your score and only then apply for credit cards, personal loans, and the like.

      Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.


      SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.

      View your rate

      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.


      Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

      *Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

      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.


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

      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.


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      Is 770 a Good Credit Score?


      Is 770 a Good Credit Score?

      770 credit score

      On this page:

        By Jackie Lam

        A 770 credit score is something to be proud of. It’s not just good but considered “very good” in the FICO® scoring model. It lands comfortably in the second-to-highest credit tier, just 30 points shy of the highest FICO rating, which is “exceptional” credit.

        A 770 score can net you lower interest rates and more favorable terms on financing, such as a credit card, mortgage, car loan, or personal loan. We’ll walk you through how a 770 credit score can boost your power as a consumer and how to reap the benefits of having solid credit.

        Key Points

        •   A 770 credit score is very good, though not in the exceptional tier.

        •   This score provides access to competitive interest rates and favorable terms.

        •   Most credit cards, auto loans, mortgages, and personal loans are available.

        •   Strong approval odds for financial products reflect financial responsibility.

        •   Continue building your credit by maintaining consistent payments, low balances, and a diverse credit history.

        What Does a 770 Credit Score Mean?

        A credit score is a three-digit number, typically between 300 and 850, that estimates how likely you are to repay a loan and make payments on time. Lenders and creditors use your credit score to decide whether to approve you for a new account, and to set interest rates and other terms.

        A credit score of 770 falls within the Very Good range on the FICO scoring model, which has five credit tiers: Here’s how they break down:

        •   Poor: 300 to 579

        •   Fair: 580 to 669

        •   Good: 670 to 739

        •   Very Good: 740 to 799

        •   Exceptional: 800 to 850

        According to FICO, scores in the Very Good range are above the average of U.S. consumers and demonstrate to lenders that someone is a “very dependable” borrower. A 770 score is typically the result of timely bill payment and good credit management.

        While the majority of lenders use FICO scores, some opt to use their own credit scoring models or VantageScore, a FICO competitor. With VantageScore, a 770 is considered a Good credit score, which is their second-to-highest tier and includes scores between 661 to 780. Their highest tier is called Excellent, which includes scores from 781 to 850.

        What Else Can You Get With a 770 Credit Score?

        A 770 credit score opens up a world of financial possibilities. Whether you’re in the market for a new credit card, mortgage, car loan, or personal loan, your very good credit rating can result in strong approval odds and competitive terms.

        Can I Get a Credit Card With a 770 Credit Score?

        Yes, a 770 credit score qualifies you for most credit cards. This includes rewards cards, cash-back cards, and even premium travel cards (with perks like access to airport lounges and travel insurance). In addition, you’re likely to receive a relatively high credit limit and favorable terms, enabling you to optimize your spending and earn more rewards. With a 770 score, you may also be able to snag a sign-up bonus or 0% introductory APR.

        Note that some of the premium credit cards come with steep annual fees, so you’ll need to consider whether the benefits they offer are worth the cost. If you don’t travel often, you may be more than happy with a top rewards card with no annual fee.

        Recommended: Personal Loan Calculator

        Can I Get an Auto Loan With a 770 Credit Score?

        The average credit score among Americans with car loans is 717. This means that if you have a score of 770, getting an auto loan shouldn’t be a problem. With your very good credit score, you should also have access to some of the lowest interest rates, reducing the overall cost of your loan.

        Exactly what interest rate you can get with a 770 credit score will depend on the lender. According to Experian data, car buyers with scores between 661 and 780 paid, on average, 6.70% APR for a new-car loan and 9.63% APR for a used-car loan in the third quarter of 2024. Even better: Some auto manufacturers offer 0% financing for many new car models to “well-qualified” borrowers. While the definition of well-qualified varies by lender, it often includes those with a Very Good FICO score.

        To find the best deal on a car loan, it’s a good idea to shop around for loan offers and compare rates from different lenders. Many lenders offer auto loan preapproval so you can lock in a rate before you shop for your car, which can be a useful bargaining chip with the dealer.

        Can I Get a Mortgage With a 770 Credit Score?

        A credit score of 770 puts you in the path of most types of home loans. The most common type of mortgage, a conventional loan, typically requires a FICO score of at least 620. A 770 score puts you comfortably over this requirement and can help you score a competitive interest rate and attractive terms.

        With a 770 credit score, you’ll also likely have access to a jumbo home loan, which is a larger-than-normal-size mortgage that typically requires a 20% minimum down payment. Since these loans pose a higher risk to a lender, they typically require a credit score of 700 or higher.

        Keep in mind that mortgage lenders will look at more than just your credit score when you apply for a home loan. They typically consider a range of criteria, including your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio and the size of your down payment.

        Can I Get a Personal Loan With a 770 Credit Score?

        The minimum credit score required for a personal loan varies by lender, but you typically need a score of 580 or higher to get approved. With a 770 credit score, you can likely qualify for a lender’s top interest rates, more flexible terms, and higher loan amounts. See if you can get preapproved online. That’ll give you an idea of your loan amount and interest rate with a particular lender and generally involves a soft credit check, which won’t impact your score.

        Once you qualify, there’s a lot you can do with a personal loan. For example, you can use the proceeds from the loan (which can be anywhere from $1,000 and $100,000) to consolidate high-interest credit card debt, cover emergency expenses, pay for a wedding, fund a vacation, or cover home repairs or renovations.

        The Takeaway

        A 770 credit score is considered a very good score and should give you access to an array of credit and lending products. When a lender sees a 770 FICO score, they can feel confident that you are financially responsible and will make timely payments. As a result, you’re likely to get better credit and lending offers than someone with merely good or fair credit.

        That said, a 770 credit score still lands below the highest credit tier (known as “exceptional” credit), indicating that there is still some room for improvement. Continuing to build your credit over time can open the door to lending products with even better terms in the future.

        Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.


        SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.

        View your rate

        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.


        Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

        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.


        Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

        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.


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        Brown University Tuition and Fees


        Brown University Tuition and Fees

         Brown University Tuition and Fees

        On this page:

          By Susan Guillory

          (Last Updated – 01/2025)

          Total Cost of Attendance

          Brown University, located in Providence, Rhode Island, is known for being a leading research university. Brown University tuition for the 2023-24 school year was $68,230, which is significantly higher than the average for private four-year universities of $41,540 per year.

          Costs for 2023-24

          Tuition & Fees

          $68,230

          Room & Board

          $16,598

          Other Expenses

          $2,820

          Total Cost of Attendance

          $87,648

          Financial Aid

          At Brown, 61% of students receive some kind of financial aid, including student loans and scholarships, to help pay for Brown tuition. Brown has been “need-blind” for domestic students for nearly 20 years, which means an applicant’s financial background isn’t taken into consideration during the application process. Anyone, regardless of income and financial situation, can apply. The university is currently making strides to offer the same need-blind process for international students.

          Generally, financial aid is monetary assistance awarded to students based on personal need and merit. Students who qualify for financial aid can use it to pay for college costs like tuition, books, and living expenses.

          The federal government is the largest provider of student financial aid. However, aid can also be given by state governments, colleges and universities, private companies, and nonprofits. The different types include:

          •  Scholarships: These can be awarded by schools and other organizations based on students’ academic excellence, athletic achievement, community involvement, job experience, field of study, or financial need.

          •  Grants: Generally based on financial need, these can come from federal, state, private, or nonprofit organizations.

          •  Work-study: This federal program provides qualifying students with part-time employment to earn money for expenses while in school.

          •  Federal student loans: This is money borrowed directly from the U.S. Department of Education. It comes with fixed interest rates that are typically lower than private loans.

          Colleges, universities, and state agencies use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine financial aid eligibility. The FAFSA can be completed online, but note that state, federal and school deadlines may differ.

          You can find other financial aid opportunities on databases such as:

          •  US Department of Education – Search for grants from colleges and universities by state

          •  College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS) – A global college scholarship application used by select institutions to award financial aid

          Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans

          Private Student Loans

          While just 9% of Brown students take out federal student loans, even fewer (2%) take out private student loans. The average private loan is $28,861 a year.

          Private loans are funded by private organizations such as banks, online lenders, credit unions, some schools, and state-based or state-affiliated organizations. While Federal student loans have interest rates that are regulated by Congress, private lenders follow a different set of regulations so their qualifications and interest rates can vary widely.

          What’s more, private loans have variable or fixed interest rates that may be higher than federal loan interest rates, which are always fixed. Private lenders may (but don’t always) require you to make payments on your loans while you are still in school, compared to federal student loans, which you don’t have to start paying back until after you graduate, leave school, or change your enrollment status to less than half-time.

          Private loans don’t have a specific application window and can be applied for on an as-needed basis. However, if you think you may need to take out a private loan, it’s a good idea to submit your FAFSA first to see what federal aid you may qualify for as it generally may have better rates and terms.

          If you’ve missed the FAFSA deadline or you’re struggling to pay for school during the year, private loans can potentially help you make your payments. Just keep in mind that you will need enough lead time for your loan to process and for your lender to send money to your school.

          Recommended: Guide to Private Student Loans

          Projected 4-Year-Degree Price

          Given that the total cost of attendance at Brown is $87,648 for the 2023-24 school year, it would cost $350,592 over four years. The average cost for private school tuition plus room and board in the U.S. is $60,420 a year, or $241,680 for four years, according to CollegeData.com.

          Here’s some Rhode Island Student Loan & Scholarship Information for you.

          Repay student loans your way.

          Find the monthly
          payment & rate that fits your budget.

          Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

          Costs for 2023-24

          Tuition & Fees

          $68,230

          Room & Board

          $16,598

          Total Cost of Attendance

          $87,648

          Brown students paid $68,239 a year in tuition and fees in 2023-24, plus an additional $16,598 for room and board.

          The average tuition for private four-year schools is $41,540, and room and board is $14,650.

          Graduate Tuition and Fees

          Costs for 2023-24

          Tuition & Fees

          $65,656

          Room & Board

          $1,350

          Total Cost of Attendance

          $67,006

          There are graduate loans and scholarships available to help cover graduate school tuition ($65,656) and fees ($1,350).

          Cost per Credit Hour

          While most students opt to attend Brown University full-time, others attend part-time. In this case, tuition is based on the number of courses the student takes, and the tuition cost per course is currently $8,576.50.

          Campus Housing Expenses

          Costs for 2023-24

          On-Campus

          Off-Campus

          Room & Board

          $16,598

          $17,444

          Other Expenses

          $2,820

          $$2,820

          First-year students at Brown are required to live on campus, and 74% of other undergraduates choose to continue to do so. First-year undergrads have roommates in residence halls that house 50-60 students. Returning students may live in private single rooms, suites, or apartments, based on a lottery system.

          Students interested in living off campus can find housing through Brown Real Estate’s website (explore auxiliary housing options here ). Housing typically includes utilities such as heat, hot water, gas, and electricity, and leases are for 12 months. Types of housing vary, but range from $800 to $1800 per person per month.

          Brown University Acceptance Rate

          Fall 2022

          Number of applications

          51,316

          Number accepted

          2,566

          Percentage Accepted

          5%

          Admission Requirements

          The Brown acceptance rate is low because the school has high standards for its students. Here are the requirements for applicants.

          Required:

          •  Transcript

          •  School report

          •  Midyear school report and transcript

          •  Counselor recommendation

          •  Two teacher evaluations/recommendations

          •  Bachelor of Science and PLME recommendations (if applicable)

          •  Final school report and transcript

          Recommended:

          •  Secondary school GPA

          •  Secondary school rank

          •  Admission test scores (SAT/ACT)

          The deadline for Early Decision is November 1, and the Regular Decision deadline is January 3. You can apply here .

          SAT and ACT Scores

          Like many universities, Brown is waiving the requirement for standardized test scores for first-year applicants for the 2023-24 school year.

          Here are the 25th and 75th percentile of test scores for Brown students enrolled in Fall 2023:

          Subject

          25th Percentile

          75th Percentile

          SAT Evidence-Based
          Reading/Writing

          740

          770

          SAT Math

          760

          800

          ACT Composite

          34

          35

          ACT English

          35

          36

          ACT Math

          32

          35

          Graduation Rate

          Brown has an exceedingly high graduation rate. For example, here is the percentage of first-year students in 2017 who graduated:

          •  6 years: 96%

          Post-Graduation Median Earnings

          The median earnings for Brown graduates is $93,000. In contrast, the median salary for graduates of four-year schools is $68,516.

          Bottom Line

          Brown is a prestigious school with stringent requirements for admissions. If you are at the top of your class, you may stand a chance of getting accepted even if your financial need is high, since the school is need-blind.

          SoFi private student loans offer competitive interest rates for qualifying borrowers, flexible repayment plans, and no origination fees.

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


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          Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

          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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          How to Make Saving for Retirement a Habit

          Saving for retirement is a huge undertaking, and if you feel overwhelmed by it, you’re not alone. That’s why we’re focusing on how to get your long-term savings and investments on track, with a three-part series this week. In this piece, we explore why habit formation is so important. Later, we will tackle why there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to saving for the long-term. And finally, we will get into how streamlining your retirement portfolio with the help of an individual retirement account (IRA) can potentially help you reach your goals.

          The New Year can be a great time to start a new habit. So how about this: Get your retirement savings on track this January. We know that saving for something that may feel as far off as retirement can be tricky, especially given the rising cost of living and a fear of missing out on living in the present. Not to mention demands such as debts that need to be paid off, child care, or other financial obligations that may make it difficult for you to prioritize saving for a future that’s still decades away.

          But here’s the thing – making saving for retirement a habit early on can actually save you money in the long run. Here’s how.

          Time Is Your Most Valuable Asset

          If you’re saving for the long-term, time is without a doubt your most valuable asset. The sooner you start to put money away, the more time your money has to work for you.

          Here’s what we mean when we say that: The broadest measure of the U.S. stock market, the S&P 500, on average returns about 7% annually, adjusted for inflation. (This percentage is based on historical data and thus only denotes a potential. As time and market conditions change, S&P 500 performance may differ.) As you save and your investments grow in value, any additional cash you put towards your nest egg helps it grow in the future. You can think about it like a snowball effect.

          That means every incremental dollar you save has the potential to be much more than that a few years down the line. That’s the phenomenon of compound growth. And the longer you’re invested, the more the power of compounding can work in your favor. With that said, investing always bears some risks; understanding these risks and your own tolerance for them can help you navigate your investments.

          Let’s look at an example that shows just how much cash you can save by taking advantage of this dynamic: Someone who starts saving for retirement at 25, putting away $500 per month, could see these total savings of $240,000 grow to more than $1 million by the time they’re 65 based on the average annual S&P 500 return of 7%. But if this person delays regular retirement savings until they’re 35, their monthly contribution would need to be $833 for a total of nearly $300,000 to achieve the same outcome. And that’s how starting early matters can save your actual dollars down the line: in this example a whopping $60,000.

          Good Habits Die Hard

          So much in financial wellness is about consistency. Whether it’s about tracking your spending, paying down debt, or putting money away for a rainy day, consistency can make or break your success. Saving and investing for retirement is no different.

          The sheer amount of money you’re trying to accumulate for a comfortable retirement can make you feel like whatever you’re doing isn’t enough to get you there. Regardless of how much you can save each month, consistency and compounding can help you reach your goal. Putting a much more manageable amount of money towards your savings every month may still potentially pay off over time, especially if you start early.

          After all, many Americans save for retirement without maxing out their 401(k) contributions to the federally mandated limit. (In 2024, this limit was $23,000, excluding catchup provisions for those 50 or older.) According to a report from 401(k) provider Vanguard, only 14% of plan holders maxed out their contributions to the limit of $22,500 in 2023. But remember: As your retirement savings are invested in the market, there is no guarantee for their growth over time, as historical performance doesn’t ensure future results.

          The principles of consistency and compounding don’t only apply to employer-sponsored retirement plans. Almost anyone who has earned money can open a tax-advantaged individual retirement account, or IRA. (In 2024, the contribution limit to a traditional IRA was $7,000 excluding catchup provisions.)

          You can hold and contribute to this type of account alongside any employer-sponsored plan. IRAs can also be useful if you want to consolidate 401(k) from previous jobs into one account, but we’ll get into that in more detail later in this series. (SoFi offers you a 1% match for any rollovers and contributions to a SoFi IRA.)

          One way to stick with your saving plans is to automate. Whether you’re automating your monthly contributions or your investments themselves, lifting the burden of having to remember – and worse, actually follow through – off you can be helpful. (SoFi makes it easy to set up recurring deposits with the amount and frequency of your choosing, and offers SoFi Plus members a 1% match on recurring deposits.) There are many ways to do this, and we previously wrote in depth about dollar-cost averaging, an investment strategy that prioritizes investing consistently over time.

          Next up in this article series, we will tackle how to optimize your retirement accounts for your goals and why there is no one-size-fits-all solution.


          image credit: Bernie Pesko

          Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.

          The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.

          SoFi isn't recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.

          The S&P 500 Index is a market-capitalization-weighted index of 500 leading publicly traded companies in the U.S. It is not an investment product, but a measure of U.S. equity performance. Historical performance of the S&P 500 Index does not guarantee similar results in the future. The historical return of the S&P 500 Index shown does not include the reinvestment of dividends or account for investment fees, expenses, or taxes, which would reduce actual returns.

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