Student loans 24 August 2023

Best New Jersey Student Loans

As a New Jersey student, you have many loan options available, including federal and private student loans. Here are the best New Jersey student loans for 2023.

New Jersey Student Loans

If you’re going to college in New Jersey, there are private student loans and financial aid programs available to help pay for college. These programs help make college more affordable and can include scholarships, grants, and student loans.

Don’t forget that you can also apply for a federal student loan, which may be more affordable, and it should be your first option when looking to pay for college.

We look at loans in New Jersey, where to get them, the best private lenders, and the federal loans that are available.

New Jersey College Loans to Assist State Students (NJCLASS)

The New Jersey College Loans to Assist State Students (NJCLASS) is a loan program designed to provide additional financial assistance to New Jersey students and families.

This program supplements federal financial aid and is aimed at covering the gap between the total cost of education and the financial aid already received from federal and other sources.

  • Eligibility: Students or their parents who are residents of New Jersey or are attending a college or university in the state can apply. They must also meet credit and other eligibility criteria.
  • Loan Types: NJCLASS offers various loan options with differing interest rates and repayment terms. This allows borrowers to choose a plan that fits their financial situation.
  • Interest Rates: The interest rates for NJCLASS loans may vary based on the selected repayment option and the creditworthiness of the borrower.
  • Repayment Plans: Various repayment options are available, including immediate repayment or deferred repayment plans. The flexibility in repayment plans caters to the different needs and financial standings of the borrowers.
  • Application Process: The process usually includes completing the application form online and submitting the necessary documentation to demonstrate eligibility.

The NJCLASS loan program serves a vital role in helping students and families in New Jersey access higher education by filling the financial gap that other aid might not cover.

Private Student Loans in New Jersey

If you’re just looking for private student loan options, we recommend these lenders:

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

Sallie Mae

Best for borrowers with cosigners

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4.8/54.50%5.99%

College Ave

Best overall

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4.7/54.44%5.09%

Earnest

Best for borrowers with fair credit

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4.4/54.45%5.32%

Citizens Bank

Best for cosigner policies

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4.3/54.43%6.03%

MPOWER

Best for international students

Visit website
4.0/514.75%N/A
Lender

Sallie Mae

Best for borrowers with cosigners

Scholaroo rating
4.8/5
Fixed rates starting (APR)
4.50%
Variable rates starting (APR)
5.99%
Visit website
Lender

College Ave

Best overall

Scholaroo rating
4.7/5
Fixed rates starting (APR)
4.44%
Variable rates starting (APR)
5.09%
Visit website
Lender

Earnest

Best for borrowers with fair credit

Scholaroo rating
4.4/5
Fixed rates starting (APR)
4.45%
Variable rates starting (APR)
5.32%
Visit website
Lender

Citizens Bank

Best for cosigner policies

Scholaroo rating
4.3/5
Fixed rates starting (APR)
4.43%
Variable rates starting (APR)
6.03%
Visit website
Lender

MPOWER

Best for international students

Scholaroo rating
4.0/5
Fixed rates starting (APR)
14.75%
Variable rates starting (APR)
N/A
Visit website

1. Sallie Mae

Best for borrowers with cosigners

Apply now

Sallie Mae

4.8
Scholaroo Rating
Fixed Rates Starting (APR)4.50%
Variable Rates Starting (APR)5.99%
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility RequirementsRepayment Terms

Since its start in 1972, Sallie Mae has become one of the most recognized private student loan lenders in the US. It has a wide range of loan options for undergraduates, graduates, parents, and those pursuing career training.

Sallie Mae provides up to 100% of your school-certified cost of attendance. For borrowers seeking cosigners, Sallie Mae stands out by offering the fastest route to cosigner release.

Their multiyear advantage ensures favorable approval chances for current borrowers who have cosigners. Starting at an interest rate of 4.50%, Sallie Mae’s loan options come with flexible repayment terms, which can extend up to 20 years.

Borrowers can also enjoy a 0.25% interest rate reduction for enrolling in automatic payments. Sallie Mae provides several deferment options, including full deferment, $25 monthly payments, or interest-only payments.

Students are granted a six-month grace period before repayment begins, and for those with cosigners, cosigner release is made available after making 12 payments.

Pros

  • Multiple deferment options
  • Fixed rates start at 4.50%
  • Can cover 100% of your school attendance cost
  • Part-time students are eligible

Cons

  • Does not offer student loan refinance
  • A strong credit score in the mid-600s
  • Employment history
  • Must be a U.S citizen or permanent resident
  • Have a permanent U.S. address
  • Have a Social Security Number
  • Must have no open bankruptcies
  • Deferred repayment – no payments while in school, and during the grace period
  • Fixed repayment – $25 payments while in school, and during the grace period
  • Interest-only payment while in school, and during the grace period

2. College Ave

Best overall

Apply now

College Ave

4.7
Scholaroo Rating
Fixed Rates Starting (APR)4.44%
Variable Rates Starting (APR)5.09%
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility RequirementsRepayment Terms

College Ave, established in 2014 and headquartered in Washington, is known for its direct and individualized approach, which makes it an appealing choice for borrowers. This lender specializes in providing custom private student loans and refinancing options for undergraduate and graduate students as well as parents.

College Ave offers competitive interest rates, starting as low as 4.44% AOR, and they can cover up to the full cost of attendance certified by your school. The repayment terms are flexible, with options spanning up to 15 years. Borrowers have the choice of full deferment, $25 monthly payments, or interest-only payments.

After making 24 full and consecutive payments, borrowers can request a cosigner release, providing them with increased financial independence and autonomy.

Pros

  • Soft credit check
  • Fixed rates from 4.44%
  • Flexible repayment terms
  • Cosigner release policies

Cons

  • No information regarding credit requirements on the website
  • Should be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
  • Must be at least 16 years old (18 years for refinancing loans)
  • Must be attending at least part-time an accredited college or university
  • Deferred payments – no payments for up to six months after graduation
  • Flat $25 monthly payments during school and up to six months after graduation
  • Interest-only payments while in school and up to six months after graduation
  • Repay the full amount during school

3. Earnest

Best for borrowers with fair credit

Apply now

Earnest

4.4
Scholaroo Rating
Fixed Rates Starting (APR)4.45%
Variable Rates Starting (APR)5.32%
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility RequirementsRepayment Terms

Founded in 2013, Earnest is a leading fintech lender that initially offered student loan refinancing, before expanding its products to include private student loans. One of Earnest’s notable strengths lies in its commitment to transparency regarding loan requirements, ensuring that students can easily determine their eligibility.

Earnest’s loan options feature flexible repayment periods, which can extend up to 15 years. Borrowers have the choice between full deferment, fixed repayments, or interest-only payments, providing them with versatility in managing their finances. The interest rates for their loans start at 4.45% APR, and students can secure loans covering up to 100% of their school-certified cost of attendance.

Although there is a nine-month grace period, Earnest does not offer a cosigner release option, which may be a drawback for some borrowers.

Pros

  • Flexible repayment options
  • Quick online eligibility check
  • No late payment penalties
  • Nine-month grace period
  • AutoPay discounts

Cons

  • No cosigner release policies
  • A minimum credit score of 650
  • Student or cosigner must earn at least $35,000 per year
  • Three years’ worth of credit history
  • Full-time enrollment at an accredited college or university
  • Deferred payment while in school with a nine-month grace period after graduation
  • Interest-only payments while in school with full payments after graduation
  • Fixed $25 monthly payments while in school with full payments after graduation
  • Full payments while in school

4. Citizens Bank

Best for cosigner policies

Apply now

Citizens Bank

4.3
Scholaroo Rating
Fixed Rates Starting (APR)4.43%
Variable Rates Starting (APR)6.03%
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility RequirementsRepayment Terms

Citizens Bank is one of the largest banks in the U.S. and was founded in 1828. The bank offers private student loans and refinancing, as well as personal and business financing products. Citizens Bank offers multi-year approvals, enabling students to fund their four-year stay in college with only one application.

Undergraduate loans start at 4.43% APR with repayment periods of up to 15 years. Getting a quote takes a few minutes and doesn’t require a hard credit check.

Private student loans from Citizens Bank are available from $1,000 up to the total cost of education. Cosigners are optional and there are no origination fees, no application fees, and no penalty fees for early repayment.

Pros

  • Interest rate and AutoPay discounts
  • Multiple repayment options
  • Flexible co-signer release terms
  • Multiyear approvals

Cons

  • A 5% late payment fee applies
  • Must have a minimum annual income of $12,000 ($24,000 for refinancing loans)
  • Must have a reasonably strong credit score (typical approvals are done for borrowers with a score of at least 740)
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or international student
  • Immediate option, repayment starts as soon as the funds are disbursed
  • Interest-only payments while in school and during the six months after graduation
  • Deferred payments while in school and during the six months after graduation

5. MPOWER

Best for international students

Apply now

MPOWER

4.0
Scholaroo Rating
Fixed Rates Starting (APR)14.75%
Variable Rates Starting (APR)N/A
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility RequirementsRepayment Terms

MPOWER Financing, established in 2014 and headquartered in Washington, provides private student loans to both local and international students. These loans are especially attractive to students since they don’t necessitate a cosigner or a strong credit record.

Another benefit of MPOWER is that borrowers can get a 1.5% interest rate reduction with six automatic on-time payments, proof of graduation, and proof of employment.

MPOWER loans come with fixed APRs starting at 14.75% and loan terms go up to 10 years. The maximum loan amount is $100,000 and there is a 5% origination fee.

Pros

  • 0.25% interest rate discounts for enrolling in autopay
  • Funds up to 100% of a borrower’s education expenses
  • Available to international students
  • Doesn’t require a cosigner
  • Doesn’t require good credit history
  • No prepayment penalty

Cons

  • Charges a 5% origination fee
  • Only fixed-rate loans are available
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, DACA recipient, refugee, or asylum-seeker
  • Must be enrolled at an eligible school
  • Should be an undergraduate or graduate student
  • Be within two years of your graduation date
  • Interest-only payments while in school with full payments after a six-month grace period

Federal Student Loans for South Carolina Students

Federal student loans are loans provided by the U.S. government and are generally available to students across the country, including New Jersey.

These loans are often the most favorable option for students, as they typically come with lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options compared to private loans.

Applying for federal aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step, and it can open doors to other financial aid opportunities such as grants and scholarships, which do not need to be repaid.

Federal student loans come with benefits like lower rates, flexible repayment plans, and loan forgiveness options.

You need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine whether you qualify for a student loan, and what type of loan you may get. The FAFSA is free and you can apply online.

There are different types of federal student loans:

  • Direct Subsidized Loans: The government pays the interest on the loan while the student is in school or during a deferment. These loans are aimed at undergraduate students with financial need.
  • Direct Unsubsidized Loans: The student is responsible for paying interest throughout the life of the loan. These loans are aimed at both graduate and undergraduate students.
  • Parent PLUS Loans: The borrower pays the interest and these loans require a credit check. Parent PLUS loans are available to parents of dependent undergraduate students.
  • Grad PLUS Loans: These loans are similar to Parent PLUS loans but available to graduate students.
  • Direct Consolidation Loans: This allows borrowers to consolidate multiple federal student loans into one loan. It makes payments easier, but keep in mind that it might lead to loading some benefits associated with the original loan(s).

Private loans and NJCLASS loans may be suitable to cover additional expenses not met by federal aid, but they often come with stricter repayment terms and higher interest rates.

Student Loan Alternatives in New Jersey

If you’re a New Jersey resident with existing student loans and looking for alternatives, you can consider student loan forgiveness programs. You can also look at student loan refinancing to potentially lower your payments while saving on interest.

Here’s a list of scholarships in New Jersey along with tips on how to win a scholarship, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.

FAQs

What are the types of student loans available in New Jersey?

Federal student loans including Direct Subsidized, Unsubsidized, and PLUS loans, as well as NJCLASS loans, private student loans offered by banks, credit unions, and private lenders, and institutional loans that some colleges and universities may offer.

How do I apply for NJCLASS loans?

You can apply for NJCLASS loans online through the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) website. You’ll need to complete the application form and provide the necessary documentation to demonstrate eligibility. Make sure to understand the terms, interest rates, and select the repayment plan that best fits your financial situation.

Are there any grants or scholarships available for students in New Jersey?

Yes, there are various grants and scholarships available to New Jersey students. These include the Tuition Aid Grant (TAG), Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) Grants, and numerous private and institutional scholarships. The best approach is to apply through the FAFSA and consult your school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

How do I qualify for federal student loans in New Jersey?

To qualify for federal student loans, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Eligibility depends on factors such as financial need, enrollment in an eligible degree or certificate program, U.S. citizenship or eligible non-citizen status, and satisfactory academic progress.