Senior year, what with taking the ACT or SAT, possibly working a part-time job, and applying for colleges can be a very stressful time. On top of all this, it’s time to start applying for financial aid. Thankfully, there are at least a few ways to de-stress the financial aid and student loan process.
Start Early
The best thing you can do to de-stress the financial aid process when it comes to applying for student loans is to start as soon as possible. Putting it off can easily become overwhelming. Beginning right away gives you plenty of time to see what’s available to you, search for loans, look for scholarships, and start planning accordingly. Waiting to complete the form could actually mean you miss out on available financial aid.
Also, pay attention to deadlines when it comes to loans. You don’t want to miss the cutoff and miss out on your potential aid!
Complete FAFSA
Completing the FAFSA should be at the top of your list when it comes to student loans. Also known as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, you can apply for federal loans, scholarships, and grants. Many schools will also look at your completed FAFSA when they review your application to see if you qualify for school-specific scholarships and grants.
Finishing it early will also take the weight off your shoulders. Completing it sooner gives you one less thing to do this year!
Consider Private Loans
Depending on your financial situation and the FAFSA reply, you may want to consider looking for private loans next. However, some private loans can have high-interest rates than federal loans, and may not be the best option for you. It’s important to make sure you absolutely need them before you start down this road. Private student loans should be your last resort and you shouldn’t rely on them until you have no other options.
College Raptor can help you here! With our new Student Loan Finder, you can discover a personalized loan option that works best for you by comparing lenders and interest rates! And it’s completely free.
Keep All Your Documents Together
Once you’ve received replies about FAFSA, loan offers, or other documentation, it’s time to keep the paperwork all in one place. The stress of applying is behind you; you have your answers when it comes to student loans. Now you can help reduce the stress of the future by collecting all the pieces in an easy-to-find place.
If you keep the documents together, you can refer to them when needed and know where they are. That will definitely help when it comes time to repay after you leave school or graduate.
Senior year is a very stressful year! With college on the horizon, it can be pretty tough. However, making sure you start early on financial aid applications and getting all your ducks in a row at the beginning can help ensure a smooth financial start to your college career.
| Lender | Rates (APR) | Eligibility | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
6.97%-15.03%* Variable
5.99%-14.00%* Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CITIZENS |
 |
6.37% - 16.70% Variable
4.50% - 15.49% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT SALLIE MAE |
 |
4.98% - 16.70% Variable
4.07% - 15.66% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CREDIBLE |
 |
6.07% - 11.31% Variable
4.39% - 10.39% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT LENDKEY |
 |
6.22% - 16.08% Variable
4.09% - 15.66% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ASCENT |
 |
6.54% - 11.08% Variable
3.95% - 8.01% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ISL |
 |
5.62% - 18.26% Variable
4.11% - 15.90% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT EARNEST |
 |
4.98% - 12.79% Variable
8.42% - 13.01% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ELFI |
