SoFi Blog

Tips and news—
for your financial moves.

Johns Hopkins University (JHU) Tuition and Fees


Johns Hopkins University (JHU) Tuition and Fees

Johns Hopkins University (JHU) Tuition and Fees

On this page:

    By Susan Guillory

    (Last Updated – 08/2025)

    Located in Baltimore, Maryland, on 140 acres, Johns Hopkins University (JHU) is widely recognized as the nation’s first research institution, and since 1876, the university has upheld its reputation for being a leader in research. According to U.S. News & World Report, the university ranks as #6 in national universities. This stellar reputation comes with a high price tag, however, with JHU being among the more expensive educations.

    Total Cost of Attendance

    For the 2024-25 school year, Johns Hopkins tuition was $65,230. This is more than 50% higher than the average for four-year private nonprofit institutions in the U.S., which is $41,540 per year.

    Costs for 2024-25

    Expense

    Cost

    Tuition & Fees

    $65,230

    Books & Supplies

    $1,356

    Room & Board

    $20,150

    Other Expenses

    $2,240

    Total Cost of Attendance

    $88,976

    Financial Aid

    Two-thirds (67%) receive financial aid to help with Johns Hopkins tuition. This includes student loans, scholarships, and grants. JHU is need-blind for domestic applicants, which means your ability to pay for tuition isn’t considered as part of the application process. Anyone, as long as they meet the requirements for Johns Hopkins University admissions and are accepted, may attend.

    Generally, financial aid is monetary assistance awarded to students based on personal need or 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

    It’s common for students to take out either federal or private student loans. In fact, 11% take out federal loans and 3% private loans. The average private student loan is $26,339.

    Private loans are funded by private organizations such as banks, online lenders, credit unions, some schools, and state-based or -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 since it generally has 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 tuition 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

    Johns Hopkins tuition, room and board, books, and fees for four years of study, based on 2022-23 pricing, would be $355,904. According to CollegeData.com, the average cost of attendance at a private college for four years is $241,680.

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

    Repay student loans your way.

    Find the monthly
    payment & rate that fits your budget.

    Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

    Here’s a closer look at the cost of tuition at Johns Hopkins University.

    Costs for 2024-25

    Expense

    Cost

    Tuition & Fees

    $65,230

    Books & Supplies

    $1,356

    Total

    $66,586

    In 2024-25, students paid $66,586 for tuition and books. On average, students at private universities in the U.S. paid $41,540. As you see, JHU is significantly more expensive than the typical U.S. university.

    Graduate Tuition and Fees

    Here’s how much it costs to attend Johns Hopkins University as a graduate student.

    Costs for 2024-25

    Expense

    Cost

    Tuition

    $64,730

    Fees

    $0

    Total Cost of Attendance

    $64,730

    Johns Hopkins tuition for graduate students, including fees, was $64,730 in 2024-25. This is substantially higher than the average cost of tuition for graduate school in the U.S. of $21,730 per year. There are graduate loans available to help with these costs.

    Cost per Credit Hour

    The information covered so far is for full-time Johns Hopkins tuition. For students who attend part-time, the rate for one credit is $2,157.

    Campus Housing Expenses

    Here are current housing costs for JHU.

    Costs for 2024-25

    Expense

    Cost

    Room & Board

    $20,150

    Other Expenses

    $2,240

    Total

    $22,390

    First-year students in the Arts and Sciences and Engineering programs are required to live on campus with one or two roommates.

    For upperclassmen interested in living off campus, JHU offers 24 commercial properties and many residential property options near the Homewood campus. Learn more about off-campus housing opportunities here.

    Johns Hopkins University Acceptance Rate

    Here’s a look at JHU’s recent acceptance rate.

    Fall 2023

    Number of applications

    38,926

    Number accepted

    2,943

    Percentage accepted

    7%

    The university is highly selective. The Johns Hopkins acceptance rate is just 7%.

    Admission Requirements

    Johns Hopkins University admissions have certain requirements with your application. Here’s what’s required and what’s recommended:

    Required:

    •  Secondary school report

    •  Two teacher evaluations

    •  Mid-year report

    •  Personal statement

    Recommended:

    •  SAT or ACT scores

    The deadline for Early Decision I applications is November 1, and January 2 for Early Decision II applications. Regular Decision applications are also due January 2. You can apply here .

    SAT and ACT Scores

    Johns Hopkins University is test-optional, though you may choose to submit your scores regardless. Here are the 25th and 75th percentile scores for reference:

    Subject

    25th Percentile

    75th Percentile

    SAT Evidence-Based
    Reading/Writing

    750

    780

    SAT Math

    780

    800

    ACT Composite

    34

    35

    ACT English

    35

    36

    ACT Math

    33

    36

    Graduation Rate

    Johns Hopkins University has an exceedingly high graduation rate. Here is the rate for students who started their studies in 2017:

    •  Overall graduation rate: 95%

    Post-Graduation Median Earnings

    Graduates of JHU earn nearly double the average of graduates of private colleges in the U.S. At JHU, the average salary is $87,555, while the U.S. average is $68,516 per year.

    Bottom Line

    For students interested in research and the sciences, Johns Hopkins University offers first-rate educational opportunities, though at a premium price. Because the school is need-blind for domestic applicants, your economic background won’t be a consideration in your application.

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

    View your rate

    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).
    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.


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

    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.



    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.


    SOISL-Q325-057

    Read more

    James Madison University (JMU) Tuition and Fees


    James Madison University (JMU) Tuition and Fees

    James Madison University (JMU) Tuition and Fees

    On this page:

      By Kelly Boyer Sagert

      (Last Updated – 08/2025)

      James Madison University is a four-year public research university in Harrisonburg, Virginia. U.S. News and World Report ranks the university as #26 in best undergraduate teaching and #78 nationally as a public educational institution. In this guide, you’ll find the latest information about admission requirements, the JMU acceptance rate, tuition, financial aid, and more.

      Total Cost of Attendance

      In 2024-25, James Madison University tuition and other expenses are as follows:

      •  Tuition in-state: $14,250, a 5.0% increase over the previous year

      •  Tuition out-of-state: $31,604, a 2.6% increase over the previous year

      •  Books and supplies: $1,298, a 3.5% increase over the previous year

      •  On campus room and board: $13,056, a 3.8% increase over the previous year

      •  Other fees: $4,672, a 2.5% increase from the previous year

      Total costs, then, are as follows:

      •  Total for in-state, on campus: $33,276, a 4.1% increase over the previous year

      •  Total for out-of-state, on campus: $50,630, a 2.9% increase over the previous year

      Financial Aid

      In 2022-23, 89% of first-time, full-time undergraduates received financial aid. More specifically:

      •   Grants or scholarship aid: 81% received this type of aid with an average award of $4,456

      •   Federal grants: 14% received this type of aid with an average award of $5,850

      •   Pell grants: 14% received this type of aid with an average award of $4,814

      •   Other federal: 7% received this type of aid with an average award of $2,592

      •   State/local: 11% received this type of aid with an average award of $5,913

      •   Institutional: 80% received this type of aid with an average award of $2,629

      •   Student financial aid: 34% received this type of aid with an average amount of $9,972

      •   Federal student loans: 32% received this type of aid with an average amount of $5,193

      •   Other student loans: 8% received this type of aid with an average amount of $22,593

      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.

      Recommended: Scholarship Search – College Scholarships Finder Tool

      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

      In 2022-23, 8% of JMU students received private student loans with an average amount of $22,593.

      Private loans are funded by private organizations such as banks, online lenders, credit unions, some schools, and state-based or -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, since it generally has 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 tuition 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

      In 2024-25, JMU cost $33,276 for in-state students. At that price, the cost for four years would be $133,104. The average in-state cost nationally was $28,840, or $115,360 for four years, significantly less than a JMU education.

      Out-of-state cost was $50,630 in total. At that price, four years of tuition would total $202,520. Nationally, the average out-of-state cost of attendance was $46,730, or $186,920, which is again a chunk less than attending JMU.

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

      Repay student loans your way.

      Find the monthly
      payment & rate that fits your budget.

      Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

      In 2024-25, James Madison University tuition was:

      •  In-state: $14,250

      •  Out-of-state: $31,604

      •  Books and supplies: $1,298

      •  Total in-state tuition and fees: $15,548

      •  Total out-of-state tuition and fees: $32,902

      How does that compare to other colleges? The average annual tuition and expenses for four-year public universities in the U.S. is $11,260 for in-state, and $29,150 for out-of-state. JMU’s total costs are higher for both in-state and out-of-state students.

      Graduate Tuition and Fees

      In 2024-25, JMU tuition for graduate students was:

      •   In-state tuition: $12,216

      •   In-state fees: $1,248

      •   In-state total: $13,464

      •   Out-of-state tuition: $29,736

      •   Out-of-state fees: $1,248

      •   Out-of-state total: $30,984

      The average graduate student spends $21,730 on tuition and fees each year in the U.S,. meaning James Madison University may offer a good deal for in-state students.

      Cost per Credit Hour

      In 2024-25, in-state undergraduate students who take up to 11 credit hours will pay $463 per credit hour. Out-of-state students will pay $1,041 per credit hour.

      Campus Housing Expenses

      In 2024-25, housing costs were as follows:

      •  On campus room and board: $13,056

      •  Off campus housing: $650-$1,375+/mo* for a one-bedroom

      *JMU lists off-campus housing rentals here.

      James Madison University Acceptance Rate

      In fall 2024, 44,134 students applied to the university. The JMU acceptance rate was 66%.

      Admission Requirements

      JMU looks for applicants who took rigorous high school coursework in core academic areas and reviews grades in core areas rather than the student’s GPA. Transcripts are required with the following being optional:

      •  SAT/ACT Scores

      •  Lists of extracurricular activities

      •  One letter of recommendation

      •  Personal statement

      Deadlines are:

      •  November 1 of the prior year for early action, non-binding

      •  January 15 for regular decisions

      SAT and ACT Scores

      JMU no longer requires SAT/ACT scores. Students who do not submit them are not penalized. In fall 2023, 19% of applicants submitted an SAT score, and 3% submitted an ACT score. The 25th and 75th percentile numbers of those who submitted were:

      Subject

      25th Percentile

      75th Percentile

      SAT Evidence-Based
      Reading/Writing

      600

      670

      SAT Math

      570

      650

      ACT Composite

      25

      29

      JMU Graduation Rate

      The graduation rate at JMU for the fall 2017 cohort is 81%.

      Post-Graduation Median Earnings

      Graduates of James Madison University earn a median annual salary of $69,954. Compared to the average annual earnings of college grads in the U.S of $68,516, the salary of JMU graduates is slightly higher.

      Bottom Line

      JMU is a respected research university that offers degrees in a number of programs. The school’s acceptance rate is high, and the admissions process is need-blind, which can benefit students. Graduates of James Madison University go on to earn a good salary, and the school has been named the university in Virginia with the highest employment rate post-college.

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

      View your rate

      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).
      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.


      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.


      SOISL-Q325-056

      Read more

      CK Everyday Cash Rewards | SoFi



      Welcome from Intuit Credit Karma

      Earn up to 3% cash back rewards.1


      Welcome from Intuit Credit Karma!

      Earn up to 3% cash back rewards1


      Read more

      Roundups

      SoFi Roundups

      Grow your savings effortlessly
      with Roundups.

      Get more savings with less effort through your SoFi Checking and Savings accounts. SoFi Roundups allows you to save automatically with every purchase.


      Open an account

      What are SoFi Roundups, and how do they work?

      SoFi Roundups help you build your savings automatically, without changing your spending habits. When you make a purchase with your SoFi debit card, the transaction is rounded up to the nearest dollar. The difference moves into your Savings account.

      For example, if you buy something for $3.50, SoFi rounds it up to $4 and transfers the extra $0.50 into savings. Over time, these small amounts can add up—making it easier to reach your financial goals, one purchase at a time.

      How much could you save with Roundups?

      Just 50 purchases a month with an average $0.50 roundup adds up to $25 in savings a month. That’s about $300 a year—automatically.
      Want to estimate your own savings? Use our Savings Goal Calculator.

      How to set up Roundups:



      • Open a SoFi Checking and Savings account.

        If you’re not already a member, open a bank account online to access Roundups and other banking features.



      • Create a SoFi Vault.

        Vaults let you separate your savings by goal. Set up a Vault for anything you’re working toward, whether it’s an emergency fund, vacation, or big purchase.



      • Enable Roundups and assign to a Vault.

        Turn on Roundups in the SoFi app and choose the Vault where you’d like your spare change to go. You can direct funds to a single goal or switch Vaults anytime.



      Open an account


      Why choose SoFi Vaults and Roundups?

      Create multiple Vaults for different goals.

      Set up separate Vaults for whatever you’re saving toward—like an emergency fund, vacation, or down payment. Note you can only apply Roundups to one Vault at a time.

      Earn 3.30% APY with eligible direct deposit.1

      Vaults earn the same annual percentage yield (APY) as your overall savings account, so your savings can grow faster while you focus on your goals.
      Terms apply.

      Track progress on the go.

      Easily monitor Roundups and Vault balances in the SoFi app. Mobile banking makes it simple to stay on top of your savings from anywhere.


      Spending and saving tools and resources.







      FAQs


      Which transactions are eligible for Roundups?

      Roundups apply to eligible debit card purchases made with your SoFi Checking and Savings account. ATM withdrawals, ACH transfers, and peer-to-peer payments via platforms like Venmo or PayPal are not eligible.


      What is a SoFi Vault, and do I need one for Roundups?

      A Vault is a savings sub-account within SoFi Checking and Savings that lets you organize your money by goal. You’ll need at least one Vault to use Roundups, since that’s where your spare change will be saved.


      Can I use Roundups with my SoFi Credit Card?

      No. Roundups are only available with SoFi debit card purchases tied to your Checking and Savings account. They don’t apply to credit card transactions.


      Can I automatically transfer funds to my SoFi Invest or Lending account?

      No. Roundups can only be directed to Vaults within your SoFi Checking and Savings account.


      Is there a fee for using SoFi Roundups?

      No. Roundups is a free feature included with your SoFi Checking and Savings account.


      Can I apply my Roundups to more than one Vault?

      You can only assign Roundups to one Vault at a time, but you can switch the destination anytime in the SoFi app.


      How can I use the funds saved through Roundups?

      Your Roundup amounts are automatically saved into a designated SoFi Vault. To use these saved funds, you can easily transfer them from your Vault back to your SoFi Checking account.


      What happens if I don’t have enough money in my checking account for a purchase and the Roundup?

      If your available balance can’t cover both the purchase and the Roundup amount, the Roundup won’t process. The transaction itself will still go through as long as funds are available.


      Why don’t I see a Roundup right after a purchase?

      Roundups are typically processed after the transaction settles, which may take a day or two. You’ll see the Roundup transfer once it’s completed.


      How do I see my Roundup history and total savings?

      You can view your Roundup activity and Vault balance in the SoFi app. Just tap into your Vault to see recent transfers and track your total savings.


      How do I deactivate Roundups?

      You can turn off Roundups anytime through the SoFi app. Just navigate to your Vault settings and toggle off the Roundups feature.

      {/* Closing CTA */}

      Save more with SoFi Roundups.

      Turn everyday spending into steady savings—automatically.
      Open a SoFi Checking and Savings account to start rounding up and reaching your goals faster.


      Open an account

      Home > Banking > Savings Account > Roundups


      Read more

      Utah Student Loan & Scholarship Information







      See all state pages

      Financial Aid 101

      Utah Student Loan & Scholarship Information




      Utah is full of rich history and natural resources. It’s no wonder so many students want to study in the Beehive State. Taking the time to learn about grants, scholarships, student loans, and student loan forgiveness options for Utah students can be an important way to help make sure you aren’t overwhelmed by college costs. Here’s what you need to know.

      Average Student Loan Debt in Utah

      As a prospective Utah college student, you’ll likely want to know the average student loan debt in Utah. According to a 2023 report, 39% of Utah college attendees have student loan debt, with an average balance of $18,344.


      39%

      of Utah college
      attendees have student
      loan debt.


      SoFi offers simple student loans that work for you.




      Utah Student Loans

      Federal Student Loans

      Federal student loans are provided by the U.S. Department of Education’s Direct Loan Program. If you take out a federal loan, the DOE is your lender. All federal student loans have fixed interest rates — which are generally lower than private loans’ — and carry fees between 1.057% and 4.228% that are deducted from the loan amount before disbursement.

      To see which type of loans you may qualify for, you’ll need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) to apply for financial aid for college or grad school. Be aware of your state’s deadline as well as the federal FAFSA deadline.

      You should also review the deadlines for each college to which you are applying, as one college may define their deadline as the date you submit your FAFSA form, while another considers it to be the date on which your FAFSA is actually processed. FAFSA will then offer you a financial aid package, dependent on your college, that may include grants, work-study opportunities, and federal student loan options. It is important to note that not every student will qualify to receive federal aid.

      Recommended: FAFSA Guide

      Direct Subsidized Loans: These are for eligible undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need, and they help cover the costs of higher education at a college or career school. The federal government pays the interest on Direct Subsidized Loans while a student is in school at least half-time. Interest starts accruing on these loans after a six-month grace period once students graduate or if they drop below half-time enrollment.

      Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Eligible undergraduate, graduate, and professional students may qualify for these loans. Eligibility is not based on financial need. The interest on these loans begins accruing immediately after funds are disbursed (meaning paid out).

      Direct PLUS Loans: These loans are for parents of dependent undergraduate students who need help paying for education expenses not covered by other financial aid. Eligibility for this loan is not based on financial need, but it does require a credit check.

      PLUS loans for graduate and professional students are being phased out. Only borrowers who already received these loans before June 30, 2026, can continue to borrow under their current terms through the 2028-29 academic year.

      Recommended: Types of Federal Student Loans

      Private Student Loans

      Private loans are funded by private organizations such as banks, online lenders, credit unions, some schools, and state-based or state-affiliated organizations. A key point to note: Private lenders follow a different set of regulations than federal loans, so their 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 require you to make payments on your loans while you are still in school. On the other hand, you don’t have to start paying back federal student loans until after you graduate, leave school, or change your enrollment status to less than half-time.

      Unlike federal loans which can only be applied for within certain deadlines (once a year, and states have their own deadlines), private loans can be applied for on an as-needed basis. Even if you suspect you may need to take out a private loan, it’s still a smart move to submit your FAFSA before applying. That way, you can see what federal aid you may qualify for first.

      If you’ve missed the FAFSA deadline and you’re struggling to pay for school throughout the year, private loans can potentially help you make your education 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.





      Scholarships & Grants

      Who doesn’t love a gift? You may sometimes hear grants and scholarships referred to as gift aid. That’s because while grants or scholarships may have certain academic or other requirements to keep them, you usually don’t have to pay them back as you would with a loan. Whether you call that a gift, a windfall, or free money, it’s a huge help when it comes time to pay for higher education.

      There are a few instances where you may have to pay back grant money, but typically only if certain requirements aren’t met. Generally, grants are need-based (meaning they are distributed due to your financial need), while scholarships are awarded based on merit (such as academic, athletic, or artistic achievement).

      There is no one-size-fits-all grant or scholarship amount or requirements, and both scholarships and grants can come from a variety of entities (including private organizations and federal or state governments).

      Some scholarships or grants can be for a small amount that may help you pay for your books or research supplies, but others can cover the entire cost of your education. That means tuition, room and board, and the extras. Which is a very good thing. Who knew parking passes could be so expensive?

      Utah Scholarships & Grants

      Utah students can check out the scholarships and grants available in the state. This gift aid is essentially free money. Your parents and your bank account may thank you for exploring these options.

      Utah Promise Scholarship

      This needs-based scholarship program in Utah is available to eligible students at Utah’s public colleges, universities, and technical colleges. The award covers tuition and fees for up to two years.


      Learn more

      T.H. Bell Education Scholarship

      Eligible students intent on entering the teaching profession in Utah public schools can utilize this renewable scholarship at all public or private institutions in Utah that offer an approved program. The award amount is based on available funding.


      Learn more

      Student Success Scholarship

      Recipients of this award receive $7,000 during their freshman year and may be eligible for further funding in subsequent years. Students must be entering freshmen at the University of Utah and maintain a 3.3 GPA while attending full time, among other eligibility requirements.


      Learn more

      Utah Sterling Scholar Award

      This scholarship awards recipients, who must be Utah residents entering their first year of college, for outstanding scholastic achievement. The award amount is $5,000 annually.


      Learn more


      Get low-rate in-school loans that work for you.




      Utah Student Loan Repayment & Forgiveness Programs

      If you’ve taken out student loans to attend a school in Utah, it is never too early to start thinking about your repayment plan. And guess what? You have a few repayment options at your disposal.

      Under the 2025 domestic policy bill, the standard student loan repayment term is between 10 and 25 years, based on the loan amount. Federal student loan interest rates vary based on what year you receive the loan.

      For the 2025-2026 school year, the federal student loan interest rate is 6.39% for Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans for undergraduates, 7.94% for Direct Unsubsidized Loans for graduate and professional students, and 8.94% for Direct PLUS loans for parents and graduate or professional students.

      For private loans, terms and conditions such as interest rates are set by the lender and vary due to many factors. Federal student loans typically offer the lowest interest rates and more flexible repayment options as compared to private student loans.

      10-30

      Years


      New federal student loan repayment terms,
      depending on the loan amount,
      beginning July 2026.

      Federal Student Loan Repayment Options

      The U.S. domestic policy bill that was passed in July 2025 eliminates a number of federal repayment plans. Because current borrowers may remain in the plans, we are including them here. But for borrowers taking out their first loans on or after July 1, 2026, there will be only two repayment options: The Standard and an income-driven plan. You can learn more about your repayment options for federal student loans here.

      Standard Repayment Plan

      This plan will continue to be available in a modified form. Most borrowers were eligible for the original plan, which had a 10-year repayment period. Borrowers often paid less over time than with other plans because the loan term was shorter. (Typically, less interest accrues over shorter loan terms than longer ones if payments are made in full and on-time.) For loans taken out on or after July 1, 2026, the repayment term will range from 10 to 25 years based on the loan amount.


      Learn more

      Repayment Assistance Program

      This new program is similar to previous income-driven plans, which tied payments to income levels and household size. Payments range from 1% to 10% of adjusted gross income over a term up to 30 years. At that point, any remaining debt will be forgiven. If your monthly payment doesn’t cover the interest owed, the interest will be cancelled.


      Learn more

      Graduated Repayment Plan

      This plan will be closed to new loans made on or after July 1, 2026. Most borrowers were eligible for this plan, which allowed them to pay their loans off over 10 years. Payments started relatively low, then increased over time (usually every two years). Current borrowers in this plan will continue to make payments according to the plan’s graduated structure.


      Learn more

      Extended Repayment Plan

      This plan will be closed to new loans made on or after July 1, 2026. To qualify for this plan, you must have had more than $30,000 in outstanding Direct or FFEL loans. Monthly payments on the Extended Repayment Plan were typically lower than under the 10-year Standard Plan or the Graduated Repayment Plan, because borrowers had a longer period to pay them off (and therefore made more interest payments). Current borrowers in this plan will continue to make payments according to the plan’s extended term.


      Learn more

      Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE)

      This plan is scheduled to be eliminated by June 30, 2028. Most student borrowers were eligible for this plan. The SAVE Plan lowered payments for almost all borrowers compared to other income-driven plans because payments were based on a smaller portion of your adjusted gross income (AGI). In addition, any remaining balance would be forgiven after 20 years. Current borrowers in this plan may transition into the new Standard Repayment Plan or Repayment Assistance Program (RAP) beginning July 1, 2026.


      Learn more

      Income-Based Repayment (IBR)

      IBR is available to anyone currently in an income-driven plan that’s scheduled to close. It was designed for borrowers who have a high debt relative to their income. Monthly payments were never higher than the 10-year Standard Plan amount. Generally, however, borrowers paid more over time than under the Standard Plan.


      Learn more


      Still not sure which payment plan is right for you?

      For more information on repayment plans, check out our Student Loan Repayment Options article to help add some clarity.

      Granted, it’s not always easy to pay loans back on time. When it comes to student loan default, 10% to 20% of student loans are typically in default. To help you avoid being among those who default on your student loans, let’s take a look at refinancing options.



      Student Loan Refinancing

      One option to potentially help accelerate student loan repayment is to refinance your student loans with a private lender. Some private lenders, like SoFi, will let you consolidate and refinance both your federal and private student loans into one loan and a single interest rate. It’s a great way to streamline your bill paying and financial life in general.

      Consolidating your loans (aka combining them) under one lender gives you the opportunity to refinance your loan and get a new term and interest rate. If you have an improved financial profile compared to when you took out your original loan, you may be able to lower your interest rate when you refinance, or shorten your term to pay off your loan more quickly.

      But it is important to remember that if you refinance federal student loans with a private lender, you will lose access to federal programs such as the income-driven repayment plans mentioned above, as well as student loan forgiveness and forbearance options.


      Student Loan Forgiveness

      At first glance, student loan forgiveness looks appealing, but it is not easily attainable. That being said, there are state-specific and federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness programs that certain student loan borrowers may be eligible for.

      Before you review your options, it’s important to know that the terms forgiveness, cancellation, and discharge essentially mean the same thing when it comes to federal student loans, but are applied in different scenarios. For example, if you are no longer required to make loan payments due to your job, that could fall under forgiveness or cancellation.

      Or, if the school you received your loans at closed before you graduated, this situation would generally be called a discharge.

      Even if you don’t complete your education, can’t find a job, or are unhappy with the quality of your education, you must repay your loans. But there are circumstances that may lead to federal student loans being forgiven, canceled, or discharged. Here are some of those options:

      Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

      The PSLF Program may forgive the remaining balance on eligible Direct Loans, after 120 qualified monthly payments are made under a repayment plan (and working with a qualifying employer).


      Learn more

      Teacher Loan Forgiveness

      Those who teach full-time for five complete and consecutive academic years in a low-income school or educational service agency may be eligible for forgiveness of up to $17,500 on select federal loans.


      Learn more

      Perkins Loan Cancellation

      Cancellation for this specific loan is based on eligible employment or volunteer service and length of service, among other factors.


      Learn more

      Total and Permanent Disability Discharge

      Qualification may relieve eligible borrowers from repaying a qualifying Direct Loan, a Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program loan, and/or a Federal Perkins Loan or a TEACH Grant service obligation.


      Learn more

      Death Discharge

      Due to the death of the borrower or of the student on whose behalf a PLUS loan was taken out, federal student loans may be discharged.


      Learn more

      Bankruptcy Discharge

      Certain eligible borrowers may have federal student loans discharged if they file a separate action during bankruptcy, known as an “adversary proceeding.”


      Learn more

      Closed School Discharge

      Borrowers who were unable to complete an academic program because their school closed might be eligible for a discharge of Direct Loans, Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program loans, or Federal Perkins Loans.


      Learn more

      Utah Specific Student Loan Forgiveness Programs

      Federal loan forgiveness programs are a logical place to start, but it can be smart to also consider other student loan forgiveness programs. There are forgiveness programs tailored to loan borrowers who live in certain locations, or have an in-demand and service-based vocation.

      Rural Physician Loan Repayment Program

      This loan forgiveness program is for qualified physicians who commit to working in an approved rural hospital in Utah for a minimum of two years. The award amount is up to $40,000 plus a required 100% match from your employer. The total award for two years of full-time service is $80,000.


      Learn more



      SoFi Private Student Loans

      In the spirit of transparency, we want you to know that you should exhaust all of your federal grant and loan options before you consider a SoFi private student loan.

      We believe that it is in each student’s best interest to look at federal financing options first in order to find the right financial aid package for them.

      If you do decide a private student loan is the right fit for your educational needs, we’re happy to help! SoFi’s private student loan application process is easy and fast. We offer flexible payment options and terms, and there are no origination or late fees.



      Read more
      TLS 1.2 Encrypted
      Equal Housing Lender