U.S. News & World Report, the global authority in rankings and consumer advice, has named Ascent the winner of the Best Private Student Loans for Parents as part of the 2026 Lending Awards. 

“Being recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a Best Private Student Loan for Parents award winner underscores our focus on expanding access to education and driving economic mobility for student, that ultimately supports the entire family and future generations. We remain committed to delivering transparent, flexible solutions that support students and the parents and families who invest in their success,” said Ken Ruggiero, Co-Founder and CEO of Ascent Funding. 

The awarded lenders were determined using a comprehensive, data-driven methodology which assessed factors including rates and fees, affordability, eligibility requirements, and customer service for lenders. For more information, read the Lenders Awards methodology.   
 
“The 2026 Lending Awards recognize exceptional institutions, while also providing current and prospective borrowers with informed insights on financial institutions that can best support their personal financial needs and goals,” said Greg Garrison, consumer banking analyst at U.S. News. 
 
U.S. News publishes consumer lending advice, calculators, mortgage rate forecasts, and more to help readers make the best money-related decisions for them. Consumers can find advice about personal and student loans, and much more at Money.USNews.com. 

Why Ascent Stands Out 

Ascent offers a range of benefits designed to support families navigating the costs of higher education: 

• Cosigner release opportunities* – Many students initially apply with a cosigner, with the option to release the cosigner later. This can be a significant benefit for the cosigner and the student, helping reduce long-term financial responsibility for the parents, and help the student borrowers establish their own strong credit. 

• No application, origination, or disbursement fees¹ – Borrowers can focus on funding their education without added costs along the way.  

• Flexible repayment terms that fit every student – Ascent offers multiple repayment plans with fixed and variable interest rates, giving students the freedom to choose what works for them. Undergraduate students can start payments up to 9 months after graduation, while graduate and professional students have extended grace periods tailored to their programs (up to 36 months for medical, 12 months for dental).   

• AscentUP and internship program² – Wrap-around support services and career-building opportunities designed to help students succeed in school, and prepare for the workforce, including access to exclusive paid internship opportunities. 

• Support for multiple programs – From traditional undergraduate and graduate degrees to career and trade school programs, Ascent offers options that meet diverse educational paths. 

• 1% cash back graduation reward* – Eligible borrowers who meet terms and conditions can earn a reward when completing their program. 

• DACA eligibility – Eligible DACA students may apply for an Ascent loan, expanding access for students who may have fewer private loan options. 

How Winners Are Selected 

U.S. News evaluates lenders through a combination of quantitative metrics and editorial review, analyzing multiple key areas: 

• Interest rates and fees – Lenders are assessed on cost competitiveness, including any hidden or upfront charges. 

• Repayment flexibility – Options that allow borrowers to adjust schedules or choose terms that fit their budget are prioritized. 

• Cosigner support and release policies – For parents or students with limited credit history, these options can be a deciding factor. 

• Hardship programs – Availability of deferment, forbearance, or other protections when financial challenges arise. 

• Accessibility – Including eligibility for non-U.S. citizens, borrowers with shorter credit histories, and students in nontraditional programs. 

Only lenders that balance affordability, transparency, and borrower support are recognized as winners. Being named a Best Private Student Loans for Parents signals that Ascent excels in these areas, helping families make informed financial decisions. 

About U.S. News & World Report 

U.S. News & World Report is the global leader for journalism that empowers consumers, citizens, business leaders and policy officials to make confident decisions in all aspects of their lives and communities. A multifaceted media company, U.S. News provides unbiased rankings, independent reporting and analysis, and consumer advice to millions of people on USNews.com each month. A pillar in Washington for more than 90 years, U.S. News is the trusted home for in-depth and exclusive insights on education, health, politics, the economy, personal finance, travel, automobiles, real estate, careers and consumer products and services. 

About Ascent 

Ascent is a leading provider of innovative financial products and wrap-around student support services that enable more students to access education and achieve academic and economic success. Everything Ascent offers is designed by leading industry professionals and with advanced technology and innovation to increase every student’s ability to plan, pay, and succeed.  

Ascent’s rare Outcomes-Based Loan provides funding to credit-invisible borrowers who generally do not benefit from traditional credit. Ascent products also include: Cosigned Loans, Solo Loans, Career Loans, Parent Loans, Graduate Loans, Access Loans, Enterprise Loans and Impact Loans. 

* For more information, including eligibility requirements, terms, and conditions, please visit https://www.ascentfunding.com/ascentbenefitsterms 

¹Only Ascent college loans are eligible for no fees. Ascent career training loans are subject to a one-time origination fee of 5.0% of the loan amount. All Ascent loans are eligible for no application, disbursement, late, NSF or early payment fees. 

² Ascent 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. 

Please note: Ascent Funding, LLC products are made available through Bank of Lake Mills or DR Bank, each Member FDIC. Subject to credit approval. 

Please borrow responsibly by maximizing scholarships and free financial aid, comparing federal and private student loans, and choosing the loan that best fits your needs.