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Student Loans - A Definitive Guide
By Steve Fleming
Student loans are one of those things that we would all like to do without. These days however all to often students do not have the means (parental or otherwise) to fund either tuition fees, course materials or general living expenses and find themselves having to apply for student loans. ACS services many of the loans that available through collages and universities, as they tend to be one of the more efficient ways for the establishments to provide loans for their students. Student Loans can be a great help in allowing you to study to improve your prospects in the marketplace and can be viewed, in this light, as a positive contribution to your future.
The main thing when considering applying for student loans is to make sure that you get the best deal possible for your particular needs. It is worth spending some time researching. It may also be worth seeking the advice of a professional in the field. A little time spent in this way can save you a great deal of money in the long run.
There are generally two types of student loans that are funded by the government. The Federal Direct Student Loan Program can take the form of a loan that is given to the parent of the student, or directly to the student. The other main type of student loan is the Federal Family Education Loan program. These loans are slightly different in that although they are underwritten by the federal government (against the loan not being repaid), they are actually provided by private and public lenders. These can be banks, saving associations and credit companies very often through ACS or Affiliated computer Services.
If yours or your family's income falls below a certain level, then you may qualify for a subsidized student loan. This can be a considerable saving and if you think that you may qualify, then it is definitely worth applying. If you are awarded a subsidized student loan then the government will pay the interest on your loan to help offset the cost of your studies. This may not mean a great deal when you are
studying, but when you start to pay the loan back after graduation it will have a beneficial effect on your payments.
Many who do not qualify for subsidized student loans prefer to opt for private student loans. It is essential to look around carefully to find the best rates available, as private companies and credit unions fund these and the rates can vary considerably. It is possible that as these are private student loans you may need a cosignatory to enable you to complete the application. When you graduate there is normally a 6-month grace to allow the student to find a job before the payments commence.
Another option for your student loan is the College Board Extra Credit Loan. Theses are actually run by the colleges themselves and can be an expensive way of getting a student loan. But if all else fails they may be worth considering.
If it is an unsubsidized loan that you are applying for, then you can also apply to most banks, as they can offer state funded student loans. It is also possible with some to get a discount for regular payments that are on time.
Student loans are a great way to fund your education and it is worth exploring in depth, which of the options would suit you best. It is possible to get great savings, depending on the type of loan you are looking for, if you shop around. So it is worth, before you start borrowing, spending a little time looking for the best deal. It will pay you dividends in they long run and that is worth a little effort.
About the Author
Steve Fleming is a regular contributer to ACS Student Loans http://www.acsstudentloans.info, articles on Student Loans, Credit Cards and Loan Consolidation.
Article Source: http://www.simplysearch4it.com/article/22827.html
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