No one wants to borrow their way through the college years. But the reality is that most families can't cover the full expense from cash flow, savings and financial aid. Even when a college meets 100% of your demonstrated financial need, a portion of the aid package probably will be loans rather than grants.
Low-rate loans to help foot the bills are plentiful, and most families have no difficulty finding educational loans to fill the gap, or even qualifying for them. Although you probably won't apply for loans until after your child graduates from high school, you should give them some thought as you're making the final choice of a school, in the spring of your child's senior year.
This planning center will help you understand the terms of the various student loans and select a lender.
From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance
Be a smarter, better informed investor.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
When You're Ready to Apply
Understand the basics of student loans.
Students can tap these federal loans, which offer low rates and flexible repayment terms.
How to Choose a Stafford-Loan Lender
Find a lender who offers lower fees to save money down the road.
Students with high financial need can apply for these loans, with a fixed interest rate.
These loans are made to parents based on creditworthiness, not need.
Private Loans
Tap additional funds if you need to supplement federal loans.
When You're Ready to Apply
-
Social Security Wage Base Just Increased: Who Pays More Tax in 2026?Payroll Taxes The Social Security Administration has announced significant changes affecting millions as we approach a new year.
-
Quiz: How Well Do You Understand the Social Security Earnings Test?Quiz Test your basic knowledge of the Social Security earnings test in our quick quiz.
-
Banks Are Sounding the Alarm About StablecoinsThe Kiplinger Letter The banking industry says stablecoins could have a negative impact on lending.
-
Big Changes Are Ahead for Higher EdThe Kiplinger Letter A major reform of higher ed is underway. Colleges are bracing for abrupt change, financial headwinds and uncertainty.
-
What New Tariffs Mean for Car ShoppersThe Kiplinger Letter Car deals are growing scarcer. Meanwhile, tax credits for EVs are on the way out, but tax breaks for car loans are coming.
-
AI’s Rapid Rise Sparks New Cyber ThreatsThe Kiplinger Letter Cybersecurity professionals are racing to ward off AI threats while also using AI tools to shore up defenses.
-
Blue Collar Workers Add AI to Their ToolboxesThe Kiplinger Letter AI can’t fix a leak or install lighting, but more and more tradespeople are adopting artificial intelligence for back-office work and other tasks.
-
AI Goes To SchoolThe Kiplinger Letter Artificial intelligence is rapidly heading to K-12 classrooms nationwide. Expect tech companies to cash in on the fast-emerging trend.
-
What To Know if You’re in the Market for a New Car This YearThe Kiplinger Letter Buying a new car will get a little easier, but don’t expect many deals.
-
Will Lower Mortgage Rates Bring Relief to the Housing Market?The Kiplinger Letter As mortgage rates slowly come down here's what to expect in the housing market over the next year or so.
