Refinancing 28 March 2023

10 Lenders That Refinance Student Loans Without Degree

Are you looking to refinance your student loans without a degree? Some lenders are offering this option, read on to find out more.

You can refinance your student loan without graduating as long as you meet the lender’s criteria for qualification. Refinancing is a great option if you need to reduce interest rates, increase the money saved each month on your loan payments, and also reducing the number of lenders you are dealing with.

We have done a detailed review of the lenders that refinance student loans without degree, their pros and cons along with their eligibility criteria. We also go through how to get your loan refinanced without a degree, discussing the general eligibility requirements in such a situation and the steps to apply.

What is Student Loan Refinancing?

Student loan refinancing means taking out a new loan to pay off existing loans. The new loans typically come with a lower interest rate saving you money in the long run. Lenders that offer student loan refinancing without a degree typically have similar terms and conditions to those who require one, however, their requirements may vary.

You can go through the details on lenders that refinance student loans without a degree and their specific eligibility requirements below to choose the one that suits you best.

10 Lenders That Will Refinance Student Loans Without A Degree

LenderScholaroo ratingFixed rates starting (APR)Variable rates starting (APR)

Navi Refi by Navient

Refinancing of Both Federal & Private Student Loans

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4.9/54.476.94

Earnest

Flexible Repayment Options

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4.8/54.995.38

Citizens Bank

Competitive Interest Rates

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4.7/55.395.09

PNC Bank

No Prepayment Penalties

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4.6/54.996.14

SoFi

Easy Application Process

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4.5/54.995.38

Discover

Dedicated Customer Service

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4.3/55.995.49

ISL Education Lending

All Information Available Online

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4.1/53.94N/A

EdvestinU

Best for Cosigner Release After 24 months

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4.1/56.07.88

RISLA

Good Customer Service

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4.1/55.79N/A

Mefa

No Origination Fees

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3.9/55.50N/A
Lender

Navi Refi by Navient

Refinancing of Both Federal & Private Student Loans

Scholaroo rating
4.9/5
Fixed rates starting (APR)
4.47
Variable rates starting (APR)
6.94
Visit website
Lender

Earnest

Flexible Repayment Options

Scholaroo rating
4.8/5
Fixed rates starting (APR)
4.99
Variable rates starting (APR)
5.38
Visit website
Lender

Citizens Bank

Competitive Interest Rates

Scholaroo rating
4.7/5
Fixed rates starting (APR)
5.39
Variable rates starting (APR)
5.09
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Lender

PNC Bank

No Prepayment Penalties

Scholaroo rating
4.6/5
Fixed rates starting (APR)
4.99
Variable rates starting (APR)
6.14
Visit website
Lender

SoFi

Easy Application Process

Scholaroo rating
4.5/5
Fixed rates starting (APR)
4.99
Variable rates starting (APR)
5.38
Visit website
Lender

Discover

Dedicated Customer Service

Scholaroo rating
4.3/5
Fixed rates starting (APR)
5.99
Variable rates starting (APR)
5.49
Visit website
Lender

ISL Education Lending

All Information Available Online

Scholaroo rating
4.1/5
Fixed rates starting (APR)
3.94
Variable rates starting (APR)
N/A
Visit website
Lender

EdvestinU

Best for Cosigner Release After 24 months

Scholaroo rating
4.1/5
Fixed rates starting (APR)
6.0
Variable rates starting (APR)
7.88
Visit website
Lender

RISLA

Good Customer Service

Scholaroo rating
4.1/5
Fixed rates starting (APR)
5.79
Variable rates starting (APR)
N/A
Visit website
Lender

Mefa

No Origination Fees

Scholaroo rating
3.9/5
Fixed rates starting (APR)
5.50
Variable rates starting (APR)
N/A
Visit website

#1 Navi Refi by Navient

Refinancing of Both Federal & Private Student Loans

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Navi Refi by Navient

4.9
Scholaroo Rating
Fixed Starting APR4.47%
Variable Starting APR6.94%
Annual Fee$0
Credit score670
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility Requirements

Navient Student Loan Refinancing is one of the popular choices for student loan services. With Navient borrowers can refinance their existing student loans into a new loan with more competitive terms and lower interest rates. They offer fixed and variable rate loans, with terms up to 20 years. Additionally, borrowers will benefit from having access to their award-winning customer service and support team that is available to help during the loan application process.

Pros

  • Low rates with no origination fees or prepayment penalties
  • Ability to refinance both federal and private student loans
  • Flexible repayment options including fixed-rate, variable-rate, and interest-only plans
  • Potential for loan forgiveness through programs such as the Teacher Loan Forgiveness and Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Cons

  • Must have a credit score of at least 670 and no delinquencies in the last 12 months to qualify
  • Low loan amount limits compared to other lenders
  • No co-signer release options
  • Not all states are eligible for loan services
  • Demonstrate a minimum credit score and income level
  • Have at least $5,000 in student loan debt to qualify for refinancing
  • Have a valid bank account for direct deposit
  • Must be of legal age in the state where you reside (at least 18 years old)
  • Must not have any delinquencies or charge-offs from Navient within the past 12 months
  • Must meet certain criteria that demonstrate responsible financial behavior.
  • Must be employed or have another form of steady income to qualify for refinancing.
  • Must not currently reside in Nebraska or Nevada

#2 Earnest

Flexible Repayment Options

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Earnest

4.8
Scholaroo Rating
Fixed Starting APR4.99%
Variable Starting APR5.38%
Annual Fee$0
Credit score620
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility Requirements

Earnest is a private lender that offers student loan refinancing for both graduates and undergraduates or students without a degree. Earnest provides various customized repayment plans along with competitive interest rates, flexible payment terms, and personal coaching from certified consultants. Earnest does not require a degree to qualify for refinancing, but borrowers must meet certain criteria such as credit score, income level and debt-to-income ratio.

Pros

  • Earnest offers some of the lowest student loan refinancing rates available, even if you don’t have a degree
  • You can customize your repayment plan to fit your individual needs
  • The online application platform of Earnest is fast and easy to fill out, meaning you can get approved quickly
  • It also has flexible co-signer options that can make it easier for you to get approved

Cons

  • It requires a higher credit score compared to some other lenders, so its not a great option for borrowers with a lower credit score
  • Earnest’s refinancing services are currently only available in select states
  • Not all types of loans qualify so you need to double check if your loan is eligible.
  • Earnest charges an origination fee when refinancing student loans, which can add up and make refinancing more expensive
  • Credit score of at least 620 or higher
  • Debt-to-income ratio of less than 45%
  • Verifiable source of income and employment history for the past two years
  • Should not have declared bankruptcy in the past 7 years
  • Extended repayment term of up to 15 years
  • Graduated repayment period of up to 10 years

#3 Citizens Bank

Competitive Interest Rates

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Citizens Bank

4.7
Scholaroo Rating
Fixed Starting APR5.39%
Variable Starting APR5.09%
Annual Fee$0
Credit score620
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility Requirements

Citizens Bank is an online lender that specializes in student loan refinancing. Citizens Bank can provide refinancing without a degree if you meet a certain criteria if qualification. This includes credit score, income level, and debt-to-income ratio. It also offers benefits such as no application or origination fees and 0.25% interest rate reduction for automatic payments.

Pros

  • Citizens Bank offers a variable rate starting at 2.31% APR, making it one of the most competitive options on the market
  • Most applications are processed within 24 hours and funding is issued as soon as you are approved
  • Unlike other lenders, Citizens Bank does not charge any fees for application or servicing
  • Borrowers can choose from a wide range of loan terms ranging from 5 to 15 years depending on their individual needs and budget constraints
  • It also gives discount of 0.25% on interest rate for automatic payments

Cons

  • Citizens Bank only offers student loan refinancing and does not provide other types of loans or financial products
  • Borrowers with lower credit scores may end up paying higher rates than those with better credit
  • It only offers loans to US citizens and permanent residents
  • The minimum loan amount for student loan refinancing with Citizens Bank is $5,000.00. This may not be ideal for those looking to refinance smaller amounts of student debt
  • Extended repayment terms of up to 15 years
  • Graduated repayment periods of up to 10 years
  • Credit score of at least 620 or higher
  • Debt-to-income ratio of less than 45%
  • Verifiable source of income and employment history for the past two years
  • Must be at least 18 years old and have a valid U.S. bank account and Social Security Number

#4 PNC Bank

No Prepayment Penalties

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PNC Bank

4.6
Scholaroo Rating
Fixed Starting APR4.99%
Variable Starting APR6.14%
Annual Fee$0
Credit score700
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility Requirements

PNC Bank also offers refinancing options without graduation. With PNC Bank, you can choose from several repayment plans including interest-only payments, graduated payments, extended payments or income-based payments.

PNC Bank also offers a cash-out refinance option for those with existing student loan debt. With this option, you can pay off your student loans and receive additional funds, which you can use to cover other expenses. Additionally, their refinancing program is available for both federal and private student loans.

Pros

  • No degree is required to get pre-qualified, making it accessible to many borrowers
  • Low interest rates and flexible repayment options make the monthly payments more manageable
  • Zero origination fees and no prepayment penalties make refinancing with PNC Bank cheaper than other lenders
  • A wide range of loan terms to choose from, starting at 5 years and going up to 20 years

Cons

  • There is an income requirement in order to qualify; borrowers must have at least $25,000 in annual income
  • The minimum loan amount for refinancing is $5,000; lower amounts may be ineligible for refinancing with PNC Bank
  • Refinancing can take up to 2 weeks from start to finish if all documents are provided
  • There is no cosigner option available, so borrowers must have a good credit score and income in order to qualify
  • Demonstrate a minimum credit score and income level
  • Have at least $5,000 in student loan debt to qualify for refinancing
  • Have a U.S. address, Social Security number and valid bank account for direct deposit
  • Cannot be in default on any Federal Student Loans or have an adverse credit history related to student loan debt
  • Interest-only payments, Graduated payments or Extended payments plans available

#5 SoFi

Easy Application Process

Apply now

SoFi

4.5
Scholaroo Rating
Fixed Starting APR4.99%
Variable Starting APR5.38%
Annual Fee$0
Credit score680
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility Requirements

SoFi also offers refinancing without graduation with competitive rates, no fees and flexible payment options. SoFi also has an online borrower dashboard to track payments and customize loan repayment plans.

Pros

  • SoFi offers competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms
  • You can apply online, which makes the process of refinancing easier and more convenient
  • The company provides helpful resources such as financial calculators and blogs to help you understand how refinancing works
  • SoFi has a no-fee policy, meaning you won’t be charged any hidden fees

Cons

  • SoFi doesn’t accept cosigners, so you may have difficulty getting approved if you don’t have good credit or financial history
  • It also requires you to have a minimum income level in order to be eligible for refinancing without a degree
  • SoFi doesn’t offer student loan forgiveness or deferment options
  • Their customer service is not the best and can be slow to respond at times
  • Demonstrate a minimum credit score and income level
  • Have at least $5,000 in student loan debt to qualify for refinancing
  • Cannot be in default on any Federal Student Loans or have an adverse credit history related to student loan debt
  • Must not have any delinquencies or charge-offs from SoFi within the past 12 months
  • Must meet certain criteria that demonstrate responsible financial behavior
  • Must be employed or have another form of steady income to qualify for refinancing
  • Must not currently reside in Nebraska or Nevada

#6 Discover

Dedicated Customer Service

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Discover

4.3
Scholaroo Rating
Fixed Starting APR5.99%
Variable Starting APR5.49%
Annual Fee$0
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility Requirements

Discover is another lender that offers refinancing options for those without a degree. With Discover, you can choose either fixed or variable rate loans and repayment terms of up to 20 years. Additionally, they have an online borrower dashboard, which can help you better keep track of your payments and manage your debt.

Pros

  • Discover offers competitive rates and flexible terms so you can save money on your student loan refinance.
  • You have several repayment plan options to choose from.
  • Discover is well known for its dedicated customer service that can guide you and answer any questions
  • Applying for a student loan refinance with Discover is quick and easy, and takes only a few minutes to complete.

Cons

  • Discover’s refinancing options are limited to certain states only.
  • The refinancing products do not offer cosigner releases
  • You must have a minimum loan balance of $5,000 to be eligible for the student loan refinance program at Discover.
  • If you have a low credit score or limited credit history, you may not qualify for Discover’s student loan refinancing products.
  • Demonstrate a minimum credit score and income level
  • Have at least $5,000 in student loan debt to qualify for refinancing
  • Have a U.S. address, Social Security number and valid bank account for direct deposit
  • Cannot be in default on any Federal Student Loans or have an adverse credit history related to student loan debt
  • Must be of legal age in the state where you reside (at least 18 years old)
  • Must not have any delinquencies or charge-offs from Discover within the past 12 months

#7 ISL Education Lending

All Information Available Online

Apply now

ISL Education Lending

4.1
Scholaroo Rating
Fixed Starting APR3.94%
Annual Fee$0
Credit score670
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility Requirements

ISL Education Lending is an online lending platform that provides students with a range of refinancing options. They provide detailed information about the different options available to make it easy for students to make an informed decision.

Pros

  • ISL offers competitively low interest rates, making refinancing much more affordable
  • They allow borrowers to choose from several different repayment plans so they can find the one that best fits their situation
  • ISL does not charge any origination fees
  • Applying for a loan with ISL is straightforward and can be done online quickly

Cons

  • While ISL does offer refinancing without a degree, it is limited by locations
  • Without a degree the loan amounts can be lower
  • Interest rates are typically higher when refinancing without a degree
  • Without the benefit of a degree, borrowers may have to extend their repayment period in order to lower their monthly payments. This can result in more interest paid over the life of the loan
  • Demonstrate a minimum credit score and income level
  • Have at least $5,000 in student loan debt to qualify for refinancing
  • Have a valid bank account for direct deposit
  • Must be of legal age in the state where you reside (at least 18 years old)
  • Must not have any delinquencies or charge-offs from ISL within the past 12 months
  • Must meet certain criteria that demonstrate responsible financial behavior
  • Must be employed or have another form of steady income to qualify for refinancing
  • Must not currently reside in Nebraska or Nevada

#8 EdvestinU

Best for Cosigner Release After 24 months

Apply now

EdvestinU

4.1
Scholaroo Rating
Fixed Starting APR6.0%
Variable Starting APR7.88%
Annual Fee$0
Credit score700
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility Requirements

EdvestinU offers refinance loans to students who haven’t earned a degree yet. The student, however, must be enrolled at least half–time at an eligible U.S.-based, Title IV, degree-granting college or university to be eligible for the loan. They also facilitate international students if they have a creditworthy U.S. citizen to cosign the refinance loan with.

Pros

  • Offers student loan refinancing to international students who are still in school with a cosigner
  • Cosigner release is available after 24 months of on-time payments
  • Can borrow an amount as low as $1,000 at minimum
  • 6-months grace period available

Cons

  • Not all states are eligible
  • Higher interest rates
  • U.S. citizen or permanent resident
  • Must meet minimum credit requirement or have a cosigner who does
  • Minimum annual gross income requirement of $30,000 (or have a cosigner that meets the income requirement)
  • Enrolled at least half-time at an eligible U.S.-based, Title IV, degree-granting college or university
  • Must be from one of the eligible states

#9 RISLA

Good Customer Service

Apply now

RISLA

4.1
Scholaroo Rating
Fixed Starting APR5.79%
Annual Fee$0
Credit score680
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility Requirements

RISLA, short for Rhode Island Student Loan Authority, is a non-profit quasi-state authority that refinances student loans for students and parents both. They have a refinancing option for those students that are still in school and have not graduated yet or hold a degree. They refinance loans on fixed rates and do not require a cosigner. However, they do mention that adding a creditworthy cosigner to your application can lower the rates you get.

Pros

  • Offers refinancing to in-school students, out-of-school students, and parents
  • Interest rate discount with automated payments
  • No application, origination, or upfront fees
  • Offers two refinancing options – immediate or deferred
  • Cosigner is not a must
  • Offers various borrower’s protection programs

Cons

  • Requires good credit
  • The minimum loan amount is $7,500 and maximum $250,000
  • US citizen or permanent resident
  • Pass a credit check
  • Minimum income of $40,000 per year
  • Meet liquidity requirements
  • Meet debt-to-income requirements

#10 MEFA

No Origination Fees

Apply now

MEFA

3.9
Scholaroo Rating
Fixed Starting APR5.50%
Annual Fee$0
Credit score670
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility Requirements

MEFA is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that specializes in providing refinancing options to students without graduation or degrees. They offer competitive interest rates, no origination fees, and flexible repayment terms of up to 20 years. They also have an online borrower dashboard, which helps in tracking payments and managing debt.

Pros

  • MEFA has affordable rates and some borrowers can qualify for rates as low as 1.99% APR
  • Flexible repayment terms from 5 to 20 years
  • No origination fees or prepayment penalties
  • Loan terms are based on the borrower’s creditworthiness, not their degree or school credentials

Cons

  • Only available to Massachusetts residents who are also United States citizens or permanent resident aliens
  • A minimum FICO score of 680 is required to be eligible
  • Refinanced loans are not eligible for public service loan forgiveness (PSLF)
  • Loan terms may still be higher than those offered by traditional lenders
  • Have at least $5,000 in student loan debt to qualify for refinancing
  • Have a Massachusetts address, Social Security number and valid bank account for direct deposit
  • Cannot be in default on any Federal Student Loans or have an adverse credit history related to student loan debt
  • Must be of legal age in the state where you reside (at least 18 years old)
  • Must be employed or have another form of steady income to qualify for refinancing
  • Must not currently reside in Nebraska or Nevada

How to Refinance Student Loans without Degree?

For those who don’t have a degree, getting student loan refinancing can be difficult. However, there are some lenders that may approve your application, provided you meet their requirements. We have provided the eligibility requirements and the steps to apply for student loans with no degree below.

General Eligibility Requirements

The following are the general eligibility requirements for getting student loans without a degree:

  • Credit Score: Lenders tend to approve applications that represent a good credit score when considering refinancing without a degree. Most of them require a minimum of 620 or better to approve these loans.
  • Income: Lenders also need you to prove a reliable source of income in order to be eligible. Depending on the lender’s requirements, this can usually range anywhere from $30,000 to $50,000 annually.
  • Employment: Most lenders require you to have stable employment for at least two years in order to qualify for refinancing without a degree. This demonstrates that you are able to consistently make regular payments on the loan.
  • Loan Amounts: Some lenders may limit how much money you can refinance. For example, some lenders may only offer up to $50,000 in refinancing without a degree.

Steps to Apply for Refinancing a Loan

The steps below can help you guide through the process of getting your student loan refinanced with ease.

  1. Compare Lenders: Determine why you want to get your loan refinanced. You might be looking for lower rates or better terms. Once you what you want to achieve through refinancing, then shop around for lenders that are offering terms that match your goal. Choose the one that matches your goal best.
  2. Collect Information and Documents Required: Once you have picked a lender, check out their eligibility requirements, the information they require, and the related documents they are asking for. Make sure to meet the eligibility requirement as best as you can to increase the chances of approval. Usually, as mentioned in the general eligibility requirement above, you will require very good credit to qualify for student loan refinancing without a degree. In case your score is not up to the mark, you will require a cosigner.
  3. Get a Cosigner: Most lenders will require you to have a cosigner if you want to refinance your loan without graduating. A cosigner will take equal responsibility for the loan and will be responsible for paying it back on time in case you fail to do so. You can ask your family and friends with good credit history and income to help you out in this matter.
  4. Apply: Once you have collected all the required information about yourself and your cosigner (if needed). You can submit an application for refinancing your loan. Most lenders have an online system for applying which is quick and easy to use. It might take a few days for the application to get assessed and approved.
  5. Accept your offer: When you receive your offer, make sure that you and any cosigners that you might have read the terms and conditions very carefully and thoroughly. If you are happy with the terms, you can sign to accept the offer.

Refinancing Student Loans Pros and Cons

Refinancing student loans without a degree has some benefits and costs associated with it. It is best to be aware of both sides of the coin before making the final decision to refinance.

Pros of Refinancing Student Loans

  • Simpler payments:  Students who took loans from multiple lenders can make things easier with refinancing. With refinancing, they can combine all the loans into one single loan with single monthly payments. Having only one payment for each month, the process of paying back your debt becomes much simpler and easier to track.
  • Lower rates: Many people choose to refinance their loans to decrease their interest rates. Through refinancing, you may be able to qualify for a loan with much lower interest rates than your original loan before.
  • Longer loan terms: Choosing a lender that refinances your student loan by extending your loan term, can actually help in reducing your monthly payments and make the debt more manageable.
  • Pay off faster: When refinancing your loan, you can choose a shorter term if you are able to, and pay off the debt faster.
  • Cosigner release: If you have become capable enough on your own and are able to release our cosigner from the loan’s liability, you can get a refinance loan and release your cosigner.
  • Better lender:  Refinancing allows students who are dissatisfied with their current lenders to choose a new one that is better.

Cons of Refinancing Student Loans

  • No federal protections: In case you had federal loans, then refinancing would take away the federal protection programs like loan forgives, forbearance, and deferment options.
  • No income-driven repayment plans: This is also more applicable to those students who choose to refinance their federal student loans into private ones. Such students generally lose the advantage of income-driven repayment plans offered by the government.
  • No grace period: With refinanced loans, students generally lose on the benefit of having a grace period of six months on their loans. They have to begin repayments immediately in most cases.
  • Possibility of higher rates: In case students choose a variable rate instead of fixed on their new refinanced loan, there are chances of the rates going up.

What If You Don't Qualify for Refinancing?

In case you don’t qualify for refinancing without a degree, there are still options to get your student loans under control. Consider looking into income-driven repayment plans or loan forgiveness programs. You may also want to consider deferment or forbearance of your loan payments if you need temporary relief from making monthly payments.  Additionally, look into credit counseling services to get help managing your student loan payments.

Alternatives to Refinancing

There are several alternatives to refinancing, these are great if you don’t qualify without a degree or don’t meet certain criteria.

  1. Government Consolidation Loans: Government consolidation loans are available to borrowers so that they can combine multiple federal student loan payments into one monthly payment, potentially lowering the interest rate. This program does not require a degree to qualify.
  2. Parent PLUS Refinancing: Parents of dependent students can refinance their parent PLUS loan without a degree. This option for refinancing can help parents reduce the amount they owe and lower their monthly payments.
  3. Pay As You Earn (PAYE) and Income-Based Repayment (IBR): Both PAYE and IBR offer income-driven repayment options, these options also qualify for loan forgiveness after a certain period of time. Even though they don’t require a degree they are only available to borrowers who have federal loans.
  4. Employer Tuition Assistance: Many employers now offer tuition assistance programs that allow employees to pay for educational expenses without taking out additional student loans. These programs are available to both degree and non-degree-seeking students and can be a great way to alleviate the burden of student loan debt.

Refinancing Methodology of Lenders

Refinancing student loan methodology varies and depends on the lender. The lender will review several factors when deciding whether or not to approve an application. These include credit score, income and employment history, and debt-to-income ratio. Additionally, some lenders may require additional information such as proof of graduation or loan repayment records before approving a refinancing application.

You should do your research and compare multiple lenders before making a decision. This way you can find the best rate and terms for your individual financial situation.

FAQs

Can you refinance student loans without a degree?

Yes, you can refinance student loans without graduating. Depending on your lender you may need to meet certain requirements if you don’t have a degree in order to qualify. These requirements may include having a good credit score and a steady income.

Can I refinance student loans without a cosigner?

Yes, if you are able to meet the specific income and credit requirements of the lender by yourself then you will not need a cosigner.

Can I refinance my loans without a job?

It is very difficult to get approved for refinancing without a job, as most lenders require a stable income for approval. However, you can check our detailed reviews to see if you qualify.

Do I qualify for loan forgiveness without graduating?

Unfortunately, most loan forgiveness programs require borrowers to have a degree in order to qualify. Therefore, it is unlikely that you would be able to receive loan forgiveness without graduating. However, some lenders may offer alternative repayment plans that can provide relief in certain circumstances.