Best for low rates

College Ave
4.3Check rate with Credible
- Min. credit score:
- 680
- Fixed APR From:
- 5.05% –16.99%
- Loan amount:
- $1,000– $500,000
- Term lengths:
- 5 to 20 years
- Min. annual income:
- $35,000
Holly Johnson writes expert content on personal finance, credit cards, loyalty and insurance topics. In addition to writing for Bankrate and CreditCards.com, Johnson does ongoing work for clients that include CNN, Forbes Advisor, LendingTree, Time Magazine and more.
Aylea Wilkins is an editor specializing in student loans. She has previously worked for Bankrate editing content about personal and home equity loans and auto, home and life insurance. She has been editing professionally for nearly a decade in a variety of fields with a primary focus on helping people make financial and purchasing decisions with confidence by providing clear and unbiased information.
Mark Kantrowitz is an expert on student financial aid, the FAFSA, scholarships, 529 plans, education tax benefits and student loans.
Bankrate’s ranking of the best MBA student loans factors in the interest rates, terms and features each lender offers. You’ll also find information about how much an MBA costs, how to apply for loans and how to choose between federal and private loans.
MBA loans are a type of student loan designed for students looking to earn a Master of Business Administration. MBA degrees are pricey, costing up to $120,000 per year at top-ranked programs. For many students, gift aid and savings aren’t enough to cover that cost. Student loans help people afford their degrees in those circumstances.
Borrowers should typically start their search with federal student loans, which come with one fixed interest rate for all borrowers, plus perks like income-driven repayment plans. However, borrowers can also find MBA loans with private lenders, which feature a wide range of loan amounts and repayment terms. Private lender rates range between about 5 percent and 15 percent, depending on your credit score and history.
While federal loans come with low fixed interest rates and protections like deferment and forbearance, private student loans for an MBA program may also make sense. That’s especially true if you have a solid credit score and a stable source of income.
When choosing private lenders, comparing quotes is key to finding the best offer. Here are some of the most important factors to consider to ensure you get the best deal:
The listings that appear on this page are from companies from which this website receives compensation, which may impact how, where and in what order products appear. This table does not include all companies or all available products. Bankrate does not endorse or recommend any companies.
The Bankrate scoring system evaluates lenders' affordability, availability and customer experience based on 11 data points selected by our editorial team. | An annual percentage rate (APR) represents the interest and fees you'll pay on top of your initial amount every month. A fixed rate will not change during your repayment period. | The range of loan amounts that a lender will service. The maximum value is the largest amount a lender will give although this amount may not be available to borrowers who don’t have good or excellent credit. Amount ranges may vary for non-loan products. Term refers to the amount of time you have to repay the loan. | |
---|---|---|---|
Fixed APR from 4.43- 14.66% | Loan amount $1k- $100K | ![]() Custom Choice Student Loan Disclosures Before applying for a private student loan, Citizens and Monogram recommend comparing all financial aid alternatives including grants, scholarships, and both federal and private student loans. The Custom Choice Loan® is made by Citizens (“Lender”). All loans are subject to individual approval and adherence to Lender’s underwriting guidelines. Program restrictions and other terms and conditions apply. LENDER AND MONOGRAM LLC EACH RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. TERMS, CONDITIONS AND RATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. Interest rates and APRs (Annual Percentage Rates) depend upon (1) the student’s and cosigner’s (if applicable) credit histories, (2) the repayment option and repayment term selected, (3) the expected number of years in deferment, (4) the requested loan amount and (5) other information provided on the online loan application. If approved, applicants will be notified of the rate applicable to your loan. Rates and terms are effective as of 12/1/23. The variable interest rate for each calendar month is calculated by adding 30-Day Average Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) index, or a replacement index if the SOFR index is no longer available, plus a fixed margin assigned to each loan. The SOFR index is published on the website of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. The current SOFR index is 5.33% as of 12/1/23. The applicable index or margin for variable rate loans may increase or decrease over time if the SOFR index changes or if a new index is chosen, and result in a different APR than shown. The fixed rate and APR assigned to a loan will never change except as required by law or if you request and qualify for the auto pay discount. The APR typically differs from the interest rate since it accounts for fees, the rate, length of the loan and the timing of all payments and reflects the cost as a yearly rate. APRs displayed as a range in the rate table assume a $10,000 loan with one disbursement. The high APRs assume a 7-year term with the Flat Payment Repayment option, a 2 month deferment period, and a six-month grace period before entering repayment. The low APRs assume a 7-year term, and the Immediate Repayment option with payments beginning 30-60 days after the disbursement via auto pay (see auto pay details in Discounts footnote below). Loan Terms: The 15-year term is only available for loan amounts of $5,000 or more. Certain repayment terms and/or options may not be available depending on the applicant’s enrollment status and/or debt-to-income ratio. Payment examples (all assume a 14-month deferment period, a six-month grace period before entering repayment, no rate reduction for auto pay and the Interest Only Repayment option): 7-year term: $10,000 loan, one disbursement, with a 7-year repayment term (84 months), and 8.91% APR would result in a monthly principal and interest payment of $160.43. 10-year term: $10,000 loan, one disbursement, with a 10-year repayment term (120 months) and 8.59% APR would result in a monthly principal and interest payment of $124.47. 15-year term: $10,000 loan, one disbursement, with a 15-year repayment term (180 months) and 8.54% APR would result in a monthly principal and interest payment of $98.71. Loan Amounts: The minimum loan amount is $1,000 except for student applicants who are permanent residents of Iowa in which case the minimum loan amount is $1,001. The maximum annual loan amount to cover in-school expenses for each academic year is determined by the school’s cost of attendance, minus other financial aid, such as federal student loans, scholarships, or grants, up to $99,999 annually. The loan amount must be certified by the school. The loan amount cannot cause the aggregate maximum student loan debt (which includes federal and private student loans) to exceed $180,000 per applicant (on cosigned applications, separate calculations are performed for the student and cosigner). Monthly Payment During School: This is the estimated monthly payment that will be made during the time you remain enrolled at the level of attendance your school certifies, subject to the initial deferment period maximum of 66 months from the first disbursement date. Immediate Repayment: Starting 30-60 days after your first disbursement date the first monthly payment of principal and interest will be due. The monthly payments of principal and interest will be generally stable for twelve months and will be recalculated once each year and reset annually on the anniversary of your most recent repayment start date so as to pay the loan in full over the remaining repayment period. Full Deferment: Principal and interest payments will be deferred from your first disbursement date through your initial deferment period end date. Starting 30-60 days after the initial deferment period, the first monthly payments of principal and interest will be due unless you qualify for and request an additional type of deferment. Interest Only Repayment: Principal payments will be deferred from your first disbursement date through your initial deferment period end date. Starting 30-60 days after your first disbursement date you will pay interest-only monthly payments that are equal to the accrued interest on the outstanding principal balance throughout the initial deferment period. Flat Payment Repayment during school: Principal payments will be deferred from your first disbursement date through your initial deferment period end date. Starting 30-60 days after your first disbursement date you will pay a minimum amount of $25 in interest per month through your initial deferment period end date. For all repayment options, any accrued and unpaid interest (interest that is in excess of the amount paid each month) will be added to the outstanding principal balance and may be capitalized at the beginning of your repayment period. Monthly Payment After Graduation: Immediate Repayment: This is the estimated combined monthly principal and interest payment amount following the final disbursement of your loan The monthly payment amount shown in the estimate will increase or decrease if the interest rate increases or decreases and will be computed based on the interest rate applicable at the time repayment begins. Your monthly payment amount may also be recalculated (a) after any deferment or forbearance period, (b) after you ask the servicer to change the monthly payment due date or (c) if the minimum monthly payment is not enough to cover the interest accrued during that month. Full Deferment, Interest Only Repayment and Flat Payment during school: The Estimated Monthly Payment after Graduation is the combined principal and interest payment amount following the initial deferment period. The first year of principal and interest repayment generally has the same monthly payment each month. After the first year of principal and interest payments, monthly payment amounts are recalculated once each year and reset annually on the anniversary of your most recent repayment start date so as to pay the loan in full over the remaining repayment period. The monthly payment amount shown in the estimate will increase or decrease if the interest rate increases or decreases and will be computed based on the interest rate applicable at the time repayment begins. Your monthly payment amount may also be recalculated (a) after any deferment or forbearance period, (b) after you ask the servicer to change the monthly payment due date, or (c) if the minimum monthly payment is not enough to cover the interest accrued during that month. For all repayment options, the minimum monthly payments of your loan’s combined principal and interest will be at least $50. Graduation Reward: The principal reduction is based on the total dollar amount of all disbursements made, excluding any amounts that are reduced, canceled, or returned. To receive this principal reduction, it must be requested from the Servicer, the student borrower must have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher and proof of such graduation must be provided to the Servicer. This reward is available once during the life of the loan, regardless of whether the student receives more than one degree. Cosigner Release: A cosigner may be released from the loan upon request to the Servicer, provided that the student borrower has met certain credit and other criteria, and 36 consecutive monthly principal and interest payments have been received by the Servicer within 10 calendar days after their due date. Late payment(s), or the use of a deferment or forbearance will reset the number of consecutive principal and interest payments to zero. Use of an approved alternative repayment plan will disqualify the loan from being eligible for this benefit. Discounts: Auto Pay yields a 0.25% interest rate reduction for making automatic payments of principal and interest from a bank account (“auto pay discount”) by completing the direct debit form provided by the Servicer. The auto pay discount will be applied after the Servicer validates your bank account information and will continue until (1) three automatic deductions are returned for insufficient funds during the life of the loan (after which the discount cannot be reinstated) or (2) automatic deduction of payments is canceled. The auto pay discount is not available when reduced payments are being made or when the loan is in a deferment or forbearance, even if payments are being made. Please note that if the discount filter in the Offer Dashboard is turned “on”, the interest rate and APR estimates quoted on the Offer Dashboard will include the auto pay discount. The auto pay discount will not be reflected in the contract or disclosures you receive from the Lender because you must request and qualify for the auto pay discount. Past Due Balances: Applications may be accepted up to the earlier of (a) twelve calendar months after the Applicant’s academic period end date or (b) twelve calendar months after the Applicant’s graduation date. Custom Choice Loan® is a registered trademark of Monogram LLC. | |
Fixed APR from 4.49- 16.99% | Loan amount $1k- No Max | ![]() 1 - College Ave Student Loans products are made available through either Firstrust Bank, member FDIC or Nationwide Bank, member FDIC. All loans are subject to individual approval and adherence to underwriting guidelines. Program restrictions, other terms, and conditions apply. 2 – All rates shown include the auto-pay discount. The 0.25% auto-pay interest rate reduction applies as long as a valid bank account is designated for required monthly payments. Variable rates may increase after consummation. 3 – Cover up to 100% of your cost of attendance as certified by your school and less any other financial aid you might receive. Minimum $1,000. | |
Fixed APR from 4.50- 15.49% | Loan amount $1k- No Max | ![]() The Private Student Loan comparison chart displays combined APRs and loan terms for our loan products. See below for APR ranges and the loan terms for each loan product. Lowest rates shown include the auto debit discount. Undergraduate loan: Variable rates: 6.37% - 16.70% APR and Fixed rates: 4.50% – 15.49% APR with the loan term of 10-15 years. Lowest rates shown include the auto debit discount. Advertised APRs for undergraduate students assume a $10,000 loan to a student who attends school for 4 years and has no prior Sallie Mae-serviced loans. Interest rates for variable rate loans may increase or decrease over the life of the loan based on changes to the 30-day Average Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) rounded up to the nearest one-eighth of one percent. Advertised variable rates are the starting range of rates and may vary outside of that range over the life of the loan. Interest is charged starting when funds are sent to the school. With the Fixed and Deferred Repayment Options, the interest rate is higher than with the Interest Repayment Option and Unpaid Interest is added to the loan’s Current Principal at the end of the grace/separation period. To receive a 0.25 percentage point interest rate discount, the borrower or cosigner must enroll in auto debit through Sallie Mae. The discount applies only during active repayment for as long as the Current Amount Due or Designated Amount is successfully withdrawn from the authorized bank account each month. It may be suspended during forbearance or deferment. Graduate and MBA loans: Variable rates: 6.87% - 16.47% APR and Fixed rates: 4.99% – 14.48% APR with the loan term of 15 years. Lowest rates shown include the auto debit discount. Advertised APRs for Graduate School Loan and MBA Loans assume a $10,000 loan with a 2-year in-school period. Interest rates for variable rate loans may increase or decrease over the life of the loan based on changes to the 30-day Average Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) rounded up to the nearest one-eighth of one percent. Advertised variable rates are the starting range of rates and may vary outside of that range over the life of the loan. Interest is charged starting when funds are sent to the school. With the Fixed and Deferred Repayment Options, the interest rate is higher than with the Interest Repayment Option and Unpaid Interest is added to the loan’s Current Principal at the end of the grace/separation period. To receive a 0.25 percentage point interest rate discount, the borrower or cosigner must enroll in auto debit through Sallie Mae. The discount applies only during active repayment for as long as the Current Amount Due or Designated Amount is successfully withdrawn from the authorized bank account each month. It may be suspended during forbearance or deferment. Medical loan: Variable rates: 6.87% - 16.44% APR and Fixed rates: 4.99% - 14.46% APR with the loan term of 20 years. Lowest rates shown include the auto debit discount. Advertised APRs for Medical School Loan assume a $10,000 loan with a 4-year in-school period. Interest rates for variable rate loans may increase or decrease over the life of the loan based on changes to the 30-day Average Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) rounded up to the nearest one-eighth of one percent. Advertised variable rates are the starting range of rates and may vary outside of that range over the life of the loan. Interest is charged starting when funds are sent to the school. With the Fixed and Deferred Repayment Options, the interest rate is higher than with the Interest Repayment Option and Unpaid Interest is added to the loan’s Current Principal at the end of the grace/separation period. To receive a 0.25 percentage point interest rate discount, the borrower or cosigner must enroll in auto debit through Sallie Mae. The discount applies only during active repayment for as long as the Current Amount Due or Designated Amount is successfully withdrawn from the authorized bank account each month. It may be suspended during forbearance or deferment. Law loan: Variable rates: 6.87% - 16.46% APR and Fixed rates: 4.99% - 14.47% APR with the loan term of 15 years. Lowest rates shown include the auto debit discount. Advertised APRs for Law School Loan assume a $10,000 loan with a 3-year in-school period. Interest rates for variable rate loans may increase or decrease over the life of the loan based on changes to the 30-day Average Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) rounded up to the nearest one-eighth of one percent. Advertised variable rates are the starting range of rates and may vary outside of that range over the life of the loan. Interest is charged starting when funds are sent to the school. With the Fixed and Deferred Repayment Options, the interest rate is higher than with the Interest Repayment Option and Unpaid Interest is added to the loan’s Current Principal at the end of the grace/separation period. To receive a 0.25 percentage point interest rate discount, the borrower or cosigner must enroll in auto debit through Sallie Mae. The discount applies only during active repayment for as long as the Current Amount Due or Designated Amount is successfully withdrawn from the authorized bank account each month. It may be suspended during forbearance or deferment. Although we do not charge a penalty or fee if you prepay your loan, any prepayment will be applied as outlined in your promissory note—first to Unpaid Fees and costs, then to Unpaid Interest, and then to Current Principal. Only the borrower may apply for cosigner release. To do so, they must first meet the age of majority in their state and provide proof of graduation (or completion of certification program), income, and U.S. citizenship or permanent residency (if their status has changed since they applied). In the last 12 months, the borrower can’t have been past due on any loans serviced by Sallie Mae for 30 or more days or enrolled in any hardship forbearances or modified repayment programs. In addition, the borrower must have paid ahead or made 12 on-time principal and interest payments on each loan requested for release. The loan can’t be past due when the cosigner release application is processed. The borrower must also demonstrate the ability to assume full responsibility of the loan(s) individually and pass a credit review when the cosigner release application is processed that demonstrates a satisfactory credit history including but not limited to no: bankruptcy, foreclosure, student loan(s) in default or 90-day delinquencies in the last 24 months. Requirements are subject to change. For applications submitted directly to Sallie Mae, loan amount cannot exceed the cost of attendance less financial aid received, as certified by the school. Applications submitted to Sallie Mae through a partner website may be subjected to a lower maximum loan request amount. Miscellaneous personal expenses (such as a laptop) may be included in the cost of attendance for students enrolled at least half-time. 3 repayment options: Deferred payment; $25 Fixed repayment; Interest repayment: Smart Option Student Loan: Examples of typical costs for a $10,000 Smart Option Student Loan with the most common fixed rate, fixed repayment option, 6-month separation period, and two disbursements: For a borrower with no prior loans and a 4-year in-school period, it works out to a 10.28% fixed APR, 51 payments of $25.00, 119 payments of $182.67 and one payment of $121.71, for a Total Loan Cost of $23,134.44. For a borrower with $20,000 in prior loans and a 2-year in-school period, it works out to a 10.78% fixed APR, 27 payments of $25.00, 179 payments of $132.53 and one payment of $40.35 for a total loan cost of $24,438.22. Loans that are subject to a $50 minimum principal and interest payment amount may receive a loan term that is less than 10 years. Graduate Loan: Example of a typical transaction for a $10,000 Graduate School Loan with the most common fixed rate, Fixed Repayment Option, and two disbursements. For borrowers with a 27-month in-school and separation period, it works out to 14.30% fixed APR, 27 payments of $25.00, 178 payments of $172.22 and one payment of $115.59, for a total loan cost of $31,445.75. Loans that are subject to a $50 minimum principal and interest payment amount may receive a loan term that is less than 15 years. Medical Loan: Example of a typical transaction for a $10,000 Medical School Loan with the most common fixed rate, Fixed Repayment Option, and two disbursements. For borrowers with a 81-month in-school and separation period, it works out to 10.32% fixed APR, 81 payments of $25.00, 238 payments of $166.28 and one payment of $86.58, for a total loan cost of $41,686.22. Loans that are subject to a $50 minimum principal and interest payment amount may receive a loan term that is less than 20 years. Law Loan: Example of a typical transaction for a $10,000 Law School Loan with the most common fixed rate, Fixed Repayment Option, and two disbursements. For borrowers with a 42-month in-school and separation period, it works out to 10.99% fixed APR, 42 payments of $25.00, 179 payments of $149.82 and one payment of $62.59, for a total loan cost of $27,930.37. Loans that are subject to a $50 minimum principal and interest payment amount may receive a loan term that is less than 15 years. MBA Loan: Example of a typical transaction for a $10,000 MBA Loan with the most common fixed rate, Fixed Repayment Option, and two disbursements. For borrowers with a 27-month in-school and separation period, it works out to 14.30% fixed APR, 27 payments of $25.00, 178 payments of $172.22 and one payment of $115.59, for a total loan cost of $31,445.75. Loans that are subject to a $50 minimum principal and interest payment amount may receive a loan term that is less than 15 years. Borrow responsibly We encourage students and families to start with savings, grants, scholarships, and federal student loans to pay for college. Students and families should evaluate all anticipated monthly loan payments, and how much the student expects to earn in the future, before considering a private student loan. Loans for Undergraduate & Career Training Students are not intended for graduate students and are subject to credit approval, identity verification, signed loan documents, and school certification. Student must attend a participating school. Student or cosigner must meet the age of majority in their state of residence. Students who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents must reside in the U.S., attend school in the U.S., apply with a creditworthy cosigner (who must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident), and provide an unexpired government-issued photo ID. Requested loan amount must be at least $1,000. Graduate School Loan and Graduate School Loan for Health Professions are for graduate students at participating degree-granting schools and are subject to credit approval, identity verification, signed loan documents, and school certification. Student or cosigner must meet the age of majority in their state of residence. Students who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents must reside in the U.S., attend school in the U.S., apply with a creditworthy cosigner (who must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident), and provide an unexpired government-issued photo ID. Requested loan amount must be at least $1,000. Medical School Loans are for graduate students in an M.D., D.O., D.V.M., V.M.D., or D.P.M. program at participating degree-granting schools and are subject to credit approval, identity verification, signed loan documents, and school certification. Graduate Certificate/Continuing Education coursework is not eligible. Student or cosigner must meet the age of majority in their state of residence. Students who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents must reside in the U.S., attend school in the U.S., apply with a creditworthy cosigner (who must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident), and provide an unexpired government-issued photo ID. Requested loan amount must be at least $1,000. Law School Loans are for graduate students in a J.D. or L.L.M. program at participating degree-granting schools and are subject to credit approval, identity verification, signed loan documents, and school certification. Graduate Certificate/Continuing Education coursework is not eligible. Student or cosigner must meet the age of majority in their state of residence. Students who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents must reside in the U.S., attend school in the U.S., apply with a creditworthy cosigner (who must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident), and provide an unexpired government-issued photo ID. Requested loan amount must be at least $1,000. MBA Loans are for graduate students in an M.B.A. program at participating degree-granting schools and are subject to credit approval, identity verification, signed loan documents, and school certification. Student or cosigner must meet the age of majority in their state of residence. Students who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents must reside in the U.S., attend school in the U.S., apply with a creditworthy cosigner (who must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident), and provide an unexpired government-issued photo ID. Requested loan amount must be at least $1,000. Information advertised valid as of 08/25/2023. SLM Corporation and its subsidiaries, including Sallie Mae Bank, are not sponsored by or agencies of the United States of America. SALLIE MAE RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS, SERVICES, AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. Sallie Mae, the Sallie Mae logo, and other Sallie Mae names and logos are service marks if Sallie Mae Bank. All other names and logos used are the trademarks or service marks of their respective owners. Credible is not the creditor for these loans and is compensated by Sallie Mae for the referral of Sallie Mae loan customers. | |
Fixed APR from 4.53- 15.36% | Loan amount $2k- No Max | ![]() Ascent's undergraduate and graduate student loans are funded by Bank of Lake Mills or DR Bank, each Member FDIC. Loan products may not be available in certain jurisdictions. Certain restrictions, limitations; and terms and conditions may apply. For Ascent Terms and Conditions please visit: www.AscentFunding.com/Ts&Cs. Rates are effective as of 12/1/2023 and reflect an automatic payment discount of either 0.25% (for credit-based loans) OR 1.00% (for undergraduate outcomes-based loans). Automatic Payment Discount is available if the borrower is enrolled in automatic payments from their personal checking account and the amount is successfully withdrawn from the authorized bank account each month. For Ascent rates and repayment examples please visit: AscentFunding.com/Rates. 1% Cash Back Graduation Reward subject to terms and conditions. Cosigned Credit-Based Loan student must meet certain minimum credit criteria. The minimum score required is subject to change and may depend on the credit score of your cosigner. Lowest APRs require interest-only payments, the shortest loan term, and a cosigner, and are only available to our most creditworthy applicants and cosigners with the highest average credit scores. | |
Fixed APR from 4.60- 8.23% | Loan amount $1k- No Max | ![]() These rates are expressed as APR. Rates shown are for eligible, creditworthy applicants and requires shortest length of repayment and our Automatic Payment discount of 0.25 percentage points. Automatic payments are not required. Annual percentage rates (APR) listed are based on borrowing $10,000 in a single disbursement. The Fixed rate will not change during the term. The variable rate is subject to increase after consummation. The maximum variable interest rate is 21.00%. The variable interest rate that is charged to the borrower is reset quarterly, may increase or decrease, and is based on an Index and Margin. That means that your rate could move lower or higher than the rates on this form. The variable rate is based upon an average of the 3-month London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) as published in the Wall Street Journal. | |
Fixed APR from 4.99- 13.29% | Loan amount $1k- $350K | ![]() ELIGIBILITY DISCLOSURES Student Lending Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or eligible non-citizen with a creditworthy U.S. citizen or permanent resident co-signer. For applicants who have not attained the age of majority in their state of residence, a co-signer is required. Citizens reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. Citizens private student loans are subject to credit qualification, completion of a loan application/Promissory Note, verification of application information, and if applicable, self-certification form, school certification of the loan amount, and student’s enrollment at a Citizens participating school. Education Refinance Loan Eligibility: Applicants must have attained a bachelor’s degree to refinance while enrolled in school. Applicants with an Associate’s degree or with no degree must have made at least 12 qualifying payments after leaving school. Qualifying payments are the most recent on time and consecutive payments of principal and interest on the loans being refinanced. Education Refinance Loan for Medical Residency Eligibility: Applicants must have graduated from medical school and be matched to a MD, DO, DDS, DMD, DPM, DVM, VMD, PharmD, OD residency or fellowship program at the time of application. Education Refinance Loan for Parents Eligibility: The primary applicant must be the primary borrower or co-signer on the loan to be refinanced. Student Loan Eligibility: Applicants must be enrolled at least half-time in a degree-granting program at an eligible institution. Student Loan for Parents Eligibility: The student whose education expenses will be paid for with the loan proceeds must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and must be enrolled at least half-time in a degree granting program at a Citizens-participating school. RATE DISCLOSURES Variable Rate Disclosure: Variable interest rates are based on the 30-day average Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) index, as published by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. As of Dec 01, 2023, the 30-day average SOFR index is 5.33%. Variable interest rates will fluctuate over the term of the loan with changes in the SOFR index, and will vary based on applicable terms, level of degree and presence of a co-signer. The maximum variable interest rate is the greater of 21.00% or the prime rate plus 9.00%. Fixed Rate Disclosure: Fixed rate ranges are based on applicable terms, level of degree, and presence of a co-signer. Lowest Rate Disclosure: Lowest rates are only available for the most creditworthy applicants, require a 5-year repayment term, interest-only repayment, and include our Loyalty and Automatic Payment discounts of 0.25 percentage points each, as outlined in the Loyalty Discount and Automatic Payment Discount disclosures. Rates are subject to additional terms and conditions, and are subject to change at any time without notice. Such changes will only apply to applications taken after the effective date of change. Education Refinance Loan Rate Disclosure: Variable interest rates range from 7.28% - 12.42% (7.29% - 12.43% APR). Fixed interest rates range from 6.99% - 10.98% (7.00% - 10.99% APR). Medical Residency Refinance Loan Rate Disclosure: Variable interest rates range from 7.28% - 11.58% (7.29% - 11.59% APR). Fixed interest rates range from 6.99% - 10.14% (7.00%- 10.15% APR). Education Refinance Loan for Parents Rate Disclosure: Variable interest rates range from 8.07% - 11.58% (8.08% - 11.59% APR). Fixed interest rates range from 7.78% - 10.14% (7.79% - 10.15% APR). Student Loan Rate Disclosure: Variable interest rates range from 6.37% - 15.80% (6.37% - 14.27% APR). Fixed interest rates range from 4.99% - 14.59% (4.99% - 13.29% APR). Undergraduate Loan Rate Disclosure: Variable interest rates range from 6.37% - 15.80% (6.37% - 14.27% APR). Fixed interest rates range from 4.99% - 14.59% (4.99% - 13.29% APR). Graduate Loan Rate Disclosure: Variable interest rates range from 6.83% - 13.78% (6.84% - 13.31% APR). Fixed interest rates range from 5.97% - 12.57% (5.97% - 12.24% APR). Business/Law Loan Rate Disclosure: Variable interest rates range from 6.83% - 12.66% (6.84% - 12.32% APR). Fixed interest rates range from 5.97% - 11.53% (5.97% - 11.26% APR). Medical/Dental Loan Rate Disclosure: Variable interest rates range from 6.83% - 11.57% (6.84% - 10.75% APR). Fixed interest rates range from 5.97% - 10.22% (5.97% - 9.58% APR). Parent Loan Rate Disclosure: Variable interest rates range from 7.21% - 9.56% (7.22% - 9.57% APR). Fixed interest rates range from 7.32% - 9.55% (7.33% - 9.56% APR). STUDENT LENDING PROGRAM DISCLOSURES Wireless Charges: Wireless carrier, text, and/or data charges may apply. Loyalty Discount: The borrower will be eligible for a 0.25 percentage point interest rate reduction on their loan if the borrower or their co-signer (if applicable) has a qualifying account in existence with us at the time the borrower and their co-signer (if applicable) have submitted a completed application authorizing us to review their credit request for the loan. The following are qualifying accounts: any checking account, savings account, money market account, certificate of deposit, automobile loan, home equity loan, home equity line of credit, mortgage, credit card account, or other student loans owned by Citizens Bank, N.A. Please note, our checking and savings account options are only available in the following states: CT, DC, DE, FL, MA, MD, MI, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, VA, and VT and some products may have an associated cost. This discount will be reflected in the interest rate disclosed in the Loan Approval Disclosure that will be provided to the borrower once the loan is approved. Limit of one Loyalty Discount per loan and discount will not be applied to prior loans. The Loyalty Discount will remain in effect for the life of the loan. Investors Bancorp, Inc. Loyalty Discount: To receive the Loyalty Discount for having a qualifying account with Investors Bancorp, Inc., borrowers must contact Citizens by telephone prior to signing the promissory note. Student loan borrowers please call (877) 291-6385 and education refinance borrowers please call (888) 411-2413. Automatic Payment Discount: Borrowers will be eligible to receive a 0.25 percentage point interest rate reduction on their student loans owned by Citizens Bank, N.A. during such time as payments are required to be made and our loan servicer is authorized to automatically deduct payments each month from any bank account the borrower designates. Discount is not available when payments are not due, such as during forbearance. If our loan servicer is unable to successfully withdraw the automatic deductions from the designated account three or more times within any 12-month period, the borrower will no longer be eligible for this discount. Get My Rate: Selecting “Get My Rate” only requires a “soft credit pull“ which does not affect your credit score. Submitting a full application will result in an inquiry on your credit report. Multi-Year Approval: Funds available for future use are subject to a soft credit inquiry at time of your next request to verify continued eligibility. After we make the initial Loan to you, we may refuse to allow you to take out additional loans under the Multi-Year Approval feature, terms and conditions will be outlined in your promissory note. Co-signer Release: Borrowers may apply for co-signer release after making 36 consecutive on-time payments of principal and interest. For the purpose of the application for co-signer release, on-time payments are defined as payments received within 15 days of the due date. Interest only payments do not qualify. The borrower must meet certain credit and eligibility guidelines when applying for the co-signer release. Borrowers must complete an application for release and provide income verification documents as part of the review. Borrowers who use deferment or forbearance will need to make 36 consecutive on-time payments after reentering repayment to qualify for release. The borrower applying for co-signer release must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. If an application for co-signer release is denied, the borrower may not reapply for co-signer release until at least one year from the date the application for co-signer release was received. Terms and conditions apply. Borrowers whose loans were funded prior to reaching the age of majority may not be eligible for co-signer release. Note: co-signer release is not available on the Student Loan for Parents or Education Refinance Loan for Parents. Student Loan Aggregate Limits: You may borrow up to the maximum qualified loan amount or the total cost of education, whichever is lower. Our student loan does have lifetime aggregate limits (including both federal and private loan debt) of: Undergraduate Degree: $150,000, Graduate Degrees: $150,000, MBA and Law: $225,000, Healthcare: $180,000 or $350,000 depending on your degree (Aggregate limits up to $350,000 for MD, DMD/DDS, OD, DO, DPM, PharmD, and DVM degrees. Aggregate limits up to $180,000 for cardiac perfusion, chiropractic, cytotechnology, nurse practitioner, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and physician assistant degree). Employer & Organizational Partnerships: To qualify for the principal balance reduction, the borrower or co-signer (if applicable) must have applied, be approved, and disburse a Citizens Education Refinance Loan, Education Refinance Loan for Parents, or a Medical Residency Refinance Loan through the employer’s dedicated Citizens website. The principal balance reduction will be calculated as 1% of the amount financed with a maximum of $1,000. The loan must be in good standing at the time the Principal Balance Reduction Benefit is applied. Only one Principal Balance Reduction Benefit is allowed per borrower. If you receive a Principal Balance Reduction Benefit on a Citizens Student Loan or Student Loan for Parents you will not be eligible for another Principal Balance Reduction Benefit on a Citizens Education Refinance Loan, Education Refinance Loan for Parents or a Medical Residency Refinance Loan. Principal balance reduction will be applied with an effective date equal to the loan’s first disbursement date. Principal balance reduction may take up to the second month following the loan’s final disbursement date to be applied and may be reduced if the loan amount is reduced or cancelled. The Principal Balance Reduction Benefit will be processed as a reduction of the loan’s principal balance and will not impact the required monthly payment. The borrower is solely responsible for any taxes that may be owed as a result of the principal balance reduction earned. A tax advisor should be consulted. Citizens Bank, N.A. does not provide tax advice. Offer cannot be combined with other promotions, discounts or offers – automatic payment and loyalty discounts excluded. Citizens reserves the right to modify these terms or cancel this offer at any point in the future for new applications. Federal Loan vs. Private Loan Benefits: Some federal student loans include unique benefits that the borrower may not receive with a private student loan, some of which we do not offer. Borrowers should carefully review federal benefits, especially if they work in public service, are in the military, are considering possible loan forgiveness options, are currently on or considering income based repayment options or are concerned about a steady source of future income and would want to lower their payments at some time in the future. When the borrower refinances, they waive any current and potential future benefits of their federal loans. For more information about federal student loan benefits and federal loan consolidation, visit https://studentaid.gov/. We also have several resources available to help the borrower make a decision on our website including Should I Refinance My Student Loans? and our FAQs. Should I Refinance My Student Loans? includes a comparison of federal and private student loan benefits that we encourage the borrower to review. U.S. Dept. of Education Fee: The Federal Direct PLUS Loan fee is a percentage of the loan amount and is proportionately deducted from each loan disbursement. For Loans first disbursed between October 1, 2022 and September 30, 2023 the origination fee is 4.228%. Student Loan Repayment: Student borrowers can make full payments or pay interest only while in school or defer payments until after graduation (interest continues to accrue during deferment periods). Medical Residency Refinance Loan Repayment Example with $100 Monthly Payment: Based on a 48 month residency, a fixed rate 5 year loan for $10,000 at 5.00% APR results in 54 monthly payments of $100 (includes residency period and 6-month grace period), followed by 60 monthly payments of $123.61. $100 monthly payment begins immediately after loan disbursement for the duration of the residency or fellow program period up to 48 months, plus 6 month grace period. Citizens Scholarship: No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. The Citizens Scholarship Sweepstakes is open to legal residents of the 50 United States, D.C., and U.S. Territories, who are 16 years of age or older, are students or prospective students, or parents/guardians of students intending to enroll or enrolled at least half-time in an accredited undergraduate/graduate post-secondary institution. To be eligible for a chance to win the Citizens Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Scholarship, entrants must also be an: American Indian or Alaskan Native, African American or Black, Hispanic or Latino/a, Asian, Native Hawaiian, or other Pacific Islander, women, member of the LGBTQ+ community, individual with disabilities, and/or a Veteran. Sweepstakes begins at 12:00 AM ET on 7/1/23 and ends at 11:59 p.m. ET on 6/30/24. Sponsored by Citizens. See Official Rules for details. Citizens Student Credit Builder™: Citizens Student Credit Builder™ refers to loans with either an Immediate or Interest Only repayment option chosen at the time the loan is originated. Credit scores are based on established borrower payment behaviors. By choosing a loan repayment option that requires payment while the student is in school, the borrower begins their history of payments earlier than a corresponding borrower that chooses a deferred repayment option. Additionally, an equally qualified borrower and/or cosigner with similar loan terms will receive a lower interest rate with an Immediate or Interest Only repayment option. SAVINGS DISCLOSURES Education Refinance Loan Average Monthly Payment Savings: The average monthly and annual payment savings estimated amount is based on 4,611 Citizens Education Refinance Loan customers who refinanced their loans between September 1, 2022 and September 1, 2023 and who received a lower payment. The calculation is derived by averaging the monthly payments prior to refinancing minus the monthly payments after refinancing. Excluded are monthly savings reported from customers that exceeded $9,375 or were lower than $20 to minimize risk of data error skewing the savings amounts. Savings vary based on interest rates, balances and remaining repayment term of loans to be refinanced. Your overall repayment amount may be higher than the loans you are refinancing even if your monthly payments are lower. Education Refinance Loan Weighted Average Interest Rate Savings: Weighted average interest rate savings is based on 5,017 Citizens Education Refinance Loan customers who lowered their interest rate on loans between September 1, 2022 and September 1, 2023. The calculation is derived by averaging the rate savings across Citizens Education Refinance Loan customers whose interest rates decreased after refinancing, calculated by taking the weighted average interest rate prior to refinancing minus the interest rate after refinancing. We excluded rate savings from customers that exceeded 14.21% and were lower than 0.25% to minimize risk of data error skewing the rate savings amounts. Your interest rate savings might vary based on the interest rates you qualify for, chosen terms and previous interest rate of the loans you are seeking to refinance. Your overall interest rate may be higher than the interest rate on the loans you are refinancing even if your monthly payments are lower. Education Refinance Loan for Parents and Federal Loan Savings Comparison: Interest rate savings are calculated as the difference between the Citizens Education Refinance Loan for Parents’ lowest offered fixed rate of 7.79% (7.79% APR) and the Federal Parent PLUS Loan interest rate of 8.05% for loans first disbursed between July 1, 2023 and June 30, 2024. The Citizens Education Refinance Loan for Parents lowest rate includes the available Citizens loyalty and automatic payment discounts for eligible and creditworthy applicants. Parent Loan Savings: Origination fee savings of $737 are calculated using the Federal Direct Plus Loan origination fee of 4.228% (for loans first disbursed between 10/1/22 and 9/30/23) and an average amount financed of $17,429 as compared to the Citizens Student Loan for Parents, which has no origination fees. Graduate Loan Savings: Origination fee savings of $806 are calculated using the Federal Direct Plus Loan origination fee of 4.228% (for loans first disbursed between 10/1/22 and 9/30/23) and an average amount financed of $19,067 as compared to the Citizens Student Loan, which has no origination fees. APPLICATION & SOLICITATION DISCLOSURES The site for Application Solicitation Disclosures is under construction. For more information, please call the Customer Service Team at (866) 999-0120 and copies of the disclosures will be provided via email. Our hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00am - 9:00pm EST and Saturday, 8:30am - 5:00pm EST. | |
Fixed APR from 5.35- 7.95% | Loan amount $2k- No Max | ![]() MEFA Student Loan Disclosure These rates are expressed as APR. The Fixed interest rate will not change during the term. To be eligible for a MEFA Undergraduate Loan, the student must:
All borrowers must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States. MEFA's private student loans are subject to credit qualification, completion of a loan agreement, self-certification form, school certification of cost of attendance minus estimated financial aid, and student's enrollment at a MEFA's participating school. For Student Deferred Repayment with Co-borrower release option, the co-borrower, non-student may request for a release after 48 consecutive on-time monthly installments and must meet certain credit and eligibility requirements when applying for the release. For the purpose of the co-borrower release application, on-time payments are defined as payments received within 15 days of the due date. Co-borrower must complete an application for release and provide income verification documents as part of the review. Credit and eligibility requirements are subject to change. | |
At Bankrate, our mission is to empower you to make smarter financial decisions. We’ve been comparing and surveying financial institutions for more than 40 years to help you find the right products for your situation. Our award-winning editorial team follows strict guidelines to ensure the content is not influenced by advertisers. Additionally, our content is thoroughly reported and vigorously edited to ensure accuracy.
When shopping for an MBA student loan, compare APRs across multiple lenders to make sure you’re getting a competitive interest rate. Also look for lenders that keep fees to a minimum and offer repayment terms that fit your needs. Loan details presented here are current as of Oct. 24, 2023. Check the lenders’ websites for more current information. The MBA loan companies listed here are selected based on factors such as APR, loan amounts, fees and credit requirements. To learn more about how we selected lenders, see our methodology section below.
LENDER | CURRENT APR RANGE FOR MBA STUDENT LOANS* | LOAN TERMS | LOAN AMOUNT RANGE | MINIMUM CREDIT SCORE |
---|---|---|---|---|
Federal grad PLUS student loans | 7.54% fixed | Standard term is 10 years | Up to 100% total cost of attendance | None |
College Ave | Fixed: 5.05%-14.49%; Variable: 5.59%-14.49% | 5-15 years | $1,000-$150,000 | Not disclosed |
SoFi | Fixed: 4.99%-13.15% (with autopay); Variable: 5.99%-13.65% (with autopay) | 5-15 years | $1,000-100% total cost of attendance | 640 |
Sallie Mae | Fixed: 4.99%-14.48% (with autopay); Variable: 6.87%-16.47% (with autopay) | 15 years | $1,000-100% total cost of attendance | Not disclosed |
Citizens Bank | Fixed: 4.99%-11.42%; Variable: 6.28%-13.00% | 5-15 years | $1,000-$225,000 | Not disclosed |
Earnest | Fixed: 4.42%-14.30% (with autopay); Variable: 5.89%-15.97% (with autopay) | 5-15 years | $1,000-100% total cost of attendance | 650 |
Check rate with Credible
on Bankrate
Check rate with Credible
Borrowers must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents or apply with a co-signer who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. They must also be attending an MBA program at a participating degree-granting school; certificates and continuing education programs are not eligible. Sallie Mae does not disclose its credit or income requirements.
Borrowers may be assessed a 5 percent fee for late payments, up to $25, and a returned check fee of up to $20.
Check rate with Credible
Citizens Bank borrowers must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents or eligible noncitizens with a co-signer who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Co-signers are also required for borrowers who do not have “reasonably strong credit” or who are not the age of majority. Borrowers must also be enrolled at least half-time in a degree-granting program and have no prior student loan defaults.
Citizens Bank may charge late and returned payment fees.
on Bankrate
When looking for a loan for your MBA degree, you have two options: federal or private.
It’s typically best to opt for federal student loans before taking out private ones. Federal loans come with robust borrower protections, repayment programs such as income-driven repayment and forgiveness programs such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness. If you have bad credit, federal loans will likely offer you better rates than private lenders.
There are some circumstances when private student loans might be a better choice. If you have excellent credit and reliable income, you may qualify for lower rates with private lenders. Private student loans may also be your only option if you’re an international student.
Federal student loans are offered by the federal government and managed by private servicers. Interest rates and standard term lengths are the same for all borrowers, regardless of financial profile.
Graduate students can choose between Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Direct grad PLUS loans. Direct Unsubsidized Loans allow you to borrow up to $20,500 annually and $138,500 total with an interest rate of 6.54 percent, and they don't require a credit check. Students need to be enrolled at least half-time and be in good academic standing to qualify.
Grad PLUS loans allow you to borrow up to the total cost of attendance, as certified by the school, with an interest rate of 7.54 percent. Although these loans don’t have a minimum credit score requirement, if you have an adverse credit history you may need to add a co-signer or prove your poor credit report is due to circumstances beyond your control.
The FAFSA is the only way to apply for federal student loans. Here's what to know:
Whether you opt to max out your federal loan options or go with a private lender, here are the most important factors you should consider:
MBA student loans are loans that can help you pay for the cost of your Master of Business Administration (MBA). They typically have flexible repayment terms and can be used for tuition, fees, housing, books, supplies and more. Some lenders allow you to defer payments during your degree and internship. Rates range from about 4 percent to 15 percent.
MBA student loans can come from either the federal government or private lenders. While there may be lifetime limits, often you can borrow up to the full cost of your education. Most lenders also give you the option of making payments while you’re still in school, but you may also be able to make interest-only payments or partial payments until you graduate.
Many MBA loans also let you defer payments until six months or longer after you graduate, which can give you time to get on your feet and into a new job before you have to worry about your student loan debt. Most MBA loans are repaid over a term of five to 25 years.
A National Center for Education Statistics study found that the average student loan balance for MBA graduates who borrow for their education is around $66,300. Of course, that number could be higher or lower depending on the price of your school and how many scholarships or grants you earn. Many MBA student loan lenders will let you borrow up to the full cost of education, although some impose lifetime limits.
It's usually best to start your student loan search with federal student loans. Federal loans come with protections you can’t get with private student loans, such as income-driven repayment plans and loan forgiveness programs. Even private lenders encourage you to exhaust federal options first — you can always use private loans to supplement what a federal loan won't cover.
If you've decided to take out a private student loan, take the time to compare lenders in terms of the rates they offer, their repayment options and other perks you can qualify for. It can be helpful to find a lender that offers a discount for autopay, for example, and one that will let you borrow up to the cost of attendance for school.
Your repayment period for an MBA loan will depend on the lender you choose. Most lenders set repayment terms between five and 15 years, while federal repayment plans range between 10 and 25 years. Of course, you can always pay off the debt early to save on interest charges.
Whether an MBA degree is worth the price tag depends on your circumstances. One Gallup poll found that 42 percent of graduates considered their MBA degree worth the cost; however, this depends on how much debt you incur and what your job prospects are after graduation. For instance, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for marketing managers is $153,440, while the average salary for market research analysts is $76,080.
In August 2022, the Biden administration announced a plan to cancel up to $20,000 in federal student loan debt for eligible borrowers. The Supreme Court ultimately rejected this plan, but the administration continues to look for student loan forgiveness options.
The administration also kept federal student loan payments paused until Oct. 2023.
If all of your debt is held by private lenders, the Biden administration’s student loan forgiveness plan will not impact you. However, if you hold federal loan debt, you could qualify for up to $20,000 in forgiveness.
Borrowers are eligible for up to $10,000 in federal student loan forgiveness — including both undergraduate and graduate debt — if their adjusted gross income is under $125,000 annually. Married borrowers who file their taxes jointly and make under $250,000 a year are also eligible for up to $10,000.
If you meet the income requirements and are a current or former Pell Grant recipient, you are eligible for up to $20,000 in forgiveness.
You can apply for debt relief on the studentaid.gov website until website once the form becomes available.
To find the best MBA student loans, we first sought out lenders that are reputable and available to borrowers throughout the United States. We also ensured that any lenders we chose advertised low starting interest rates.
To determine our final rankings, we then compared lenders' APR ranges, repayment terms, loan amounts and fees. The best lenders offered perks beyond the standard loan, such as multiyear approval or rewards for good grades and timely payments.