Saturday 20 September 2008

Student Loans - What You Should Know About Federal and Private Student Loans

With the cost of college tuition rising every year, many students find relief by getting student loans. Student loans can allow a student to go to a school that they might other wise not be able to afford. Typical student loans have a much lower rate than a traditional bank loan because they are insured and guaranteed by the government. Lenders will usually give you a longer period of time to pay back the money and most student loans don't need to be paid back until the student have completely finished school.

Many times student loans are accompanied by grants and scholarships which are forms of financial aid awarded by schools, businesses, institutions, associations and private industry that does not have to be repaid. It's wise to apply for scholarships and grants first, and then you can apply for a student loan to cover the remainder of your costs.

Federal student loans require no payment while enrolled in at least half time status. The student must maintain the minimum hours required to keep from having to make payments until they graduate. If the student falls below the hours allowed, their account will go into a 6 month grace period. If the student re-enrolls in at least half time status, the loans will be deferred, but when they drop below half time again they will no longer have their grace period.

Student loans made to parents usually have a much higher limit, but monthly payments start immediately.

Private student loans are similar to federal student loans, in that they do not have to be paid back until after graduation. However, interest starts to accrue immediately. Private loans may be used for any education related expenses such as tuition, room and board, books, computers, and past due balances.

Chane Steiner is the president and founder of AAACreditGuide.com, the credit repair authority site. For more information about student loans, check out the student loans forum.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chane_Steiner

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