Get pre-qualified for a private graduate loan in minutes, choose a repayment plan that fits your timeline, and stay focused on your future. Ascent has been helping students fill funding gaps for 10 years, and everything we do aims to support your long-term goals.
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Grad PLUS loans are available to eligible borrowers, but federal borrowing limits and eligibility rules may affect how much you can borrow. Also, federal Grad PLUS loans will not be available to new borrowers after July 1, 2026. Some graduate students find that federal loans don't cover the full cost of attendance, which is why they explore private loan options.
Private graduate loans don't replace federal loans. Many students use private graduate loans to help cover remaining education expenses after federal limits are reached.
Students often consider private graduate loans when:
Everyone's situation is different, which is why comparing options can be helpful.
Ascent private graduate loans allow students to apply with a cosigner, which can be helpful for borrowers who want added credit support. Federal Grad PLUS loans don't offer a cosigner option.
Fees vary by lender. Ascent offers no fees on private graduate loans, while Federal Grad PLUS loans include an origination fee.
The right choice depends on your program costs, federal aid eligibility, repayment preferences, financial situation, and more. Comparing loan features side by side can help you understand which financing options align best with your needs.
Ascent considers creditworthiness, school, program, GPA, and cost of attendance. You must be at least half-time enrolled in a degree program at an eligible institution.
Solo applicants must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or have DACA status. Non-U.S. citizens or non-permanent residents may apply with a creditworthy U.S. citizen or permanent resident cosigner.
You can check your pre-qualified rates in 4 steps without credit impact.
Funds go directly to your school first. Your school applies the loan to tuition, then sends remaining funds to you for books, study supplies, rent, groceries, etc.
Check your rates without impacting your credit.
Loans subject to individual approval, restrictions and conditions apply. See Terms and Conditions at AscentFunding.com/Rates and AscentFunding.com/Ts&Cs. Loan features and information advertised are intended for Ascent college student loans and are subject to change at any time. Ascent college loans include both undergraduate and graduate loans.
**Over 220,000 borrowers took out an Ascent loan for college or career training tuition or expenses between January 2018 and March 2026.
1Comparison chart is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available information obtained from competitor websites as of October 2025. While we strive for accuracy, we do not guarantee the completeness, timeliness, or reliability of the data presented. Competitor terms, rates, and features may change without notice. This chart is intended to help users understand general differences among products and services and does not constitute financial advice, an endorsement, or a loan offer. Users should verify all information directly with the respective providers before making any financial decisions. Ascent loans subject to individual approval, restrictions and conditions apply. See Terms and Conditions at AscentFunding.com/Rates and AscentFunding.com/Ts&Cs. Loan features and information advertised are intended for college student loans and are subject to change at any time.
2Ascent applicants and borrowers that agree to the AscentUP Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, as well as students associated with an Ascent parent loan application, have access to the AscentUP platform.
Checking your rate will not impact your credit score.
For students seeking their undergraduate or graduate degree from a university or college.
For students attending a coding career training school pursuing a degree in technology, professional training, or licensure training.
