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Private Student Loan Advice & College Financing Resources

Expert guidance on private student loans including how to plan, pay, and succeed for students and parents from the start of school through graduation.

  • Ascent Recognized as One of Southern California's Best Places to Work 
    We’re proud to share that Ascent has been recognized as one of Southern California’s Best Places to Work by Best Companies Group, an independent organization that honors companies creating strong workplace experiences for their teams.  Best Places to Work SoCal is a research-driven program from Best Companies Group that reviews participating companies’ practices, programs, and benefits, then gathers employee feedback about their workplace experience. Companies that meet the program’s criteria are named among the Best Places to Work SoCal. For Ascent, this recognition reflects more than our benefits or programs. It reflects the people who make our work meaningful every day.  At Ascent, we’re focused on building a workplace where people feel supported, trusted, and able to grow. Our mission is to help students access education and move toward academic and economic success, and we know that work starts with our own team. When employees feel valued and connected to the work they do, they’re better equipped to make a meaningful impact.  Our team is curious, collaborative, and open to new ideas. Leaders encourage learning, create space for feedback, and support career growth across the company. We believe great ideas can come from anywhere, and we work to make sure employees feel heard, included, and empowered to contribute.  Supporting employees means supporting the whole person. Ascent offers flexible and hybrid work options, generous PTO and leave policies, paid parental leave, wellness support, continuing education opportunities, and a 401(k) match. These benefits are designed to help team members care for themselves, grow professionally, and build sustainable careers.  Recognition is also part of how we show appreciation. Through programs like Cosmic Kudos, professional development opportunities, and company-wide celebrations, Ascent makes time to acknowledge the work happening across the team. It’s one way we help create a culture where people support each other, celebrate progress, and take pride in the impact they’re making.  “We’re proud to have built a workplace where employees feel trusted, supported, and genuinely connected to the work they do,” said Emily Skoubo, Director of Human Resources at Ascent. “This recognition reflects the collaborative culture our team has created together and our continued focus on providing an environment where people can grow, contribute, and feel valued.”  At its core, Ascent’s culture is people-first and purpose-driven. Team members support one another, celebrate wins together, and stay connected to a shared goal: helping students and families plan for, pay for, and succeed in school. That mix of mission, collaboration, and opportunity is what makes Ascent a great place to work.  We’re grateful to every employee who helps shape that culture every day and proud of what we’ve built together. As Ascent continues to grow, we’ll keep investing in our people, strengthening our culture, and creating opportunities for employees to do meaningful work while building rewarding careers. Because when our people succeed, the students and families we serve benefit too. 
  • Group of graduate students preparing for upcoming presentation
    How to Apply for Grad School Loans
    If you're attending graduate school, our step-by-step guide will help you figure out where to start with the loan application process.
  • Everything You Should Know About Cosigning a Student Loan
    Thinking about cosigning a student loan? Ascent Funding covers everything you need to know about being a cosigner. Learn more here.
  • Budget Blog – Finances of an SDSU Senior
    The idea of having a budget can feel empowering, yet, the process of building, maintaining, and sticking to a budget can be tough.
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    9 Reasons Why Coding Bootcamps Are Worth Attending
    Is a coding bootcamp worth it? Ascent explores 9 reasons coding bootcamps could be a good decision for your future. Learn more on the blog.
  • Teacher Giving Lesson to Diverse Group of Students in Software Engineering Bootcamp, Teaching New Skills on a Computer
    A Guide to Software Engineer Bootcamps
    Learn more about what software engineer bootcamps are, how they work, and how they can accelerate your career path in this guide from Ascent.
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    5 Meaningful Ways to Celebrate Black History Month
    February is Black History Month – read our blog post for a few tips on how to give back and support the Black community all year long.
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    Is a Cybersecurity Bootcamp Worth It?
    Learn more about what cybersecurity bootcamps are, how they work, and how they can accelerate your career path in this guide from Ascent.
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    Conversation on Tech & Film: Lesly Lynch
    If you’re looking for a career with endless possibilities, a position in the tech industry can deliver.
  • Men and women sit in a row waiting for job interview.
    How to Find Your Dream Job or Internship – Your Job Search Checklist
    Whether you’re an incoming college freshman looking for an internship or a recent graduate on the hunt for that first job offer, here’s our checklist on how to find your dream job or internship.
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    5 Tips on How to Land Your Dream Internship and Make the Most of It
    A couple solid internships on a resume could make all the difference when it comes to eventually landing your dream job. Let’s look at some tips to help you land the perfect internship.
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Your Ultimate Guide to College Funding

Discover interactive tools, expert insights, and real-world strategies to help you pay for college with confidence.