Private Student Loan Advice & College Financing Resources

Ascent, a leading provider of innovative financial products and student support services that enable more students to access education and achieve academic and economic success, has been named one of the 2026 Best Places to Work in Fintech, an awards program created in 2017 by Arizent and Best Companies Group.  This annual survey and awards program recognizes the top employers in the financial technology industry. Honorees operate across a wide range of financial services sectors, including banking, mortgages, insurance, payments and financial advisory. To be eligible, companies must provide technology products or services that support financial services delivery, have been in business for at least one year, and employ at least 15 people in the U.S.  "Each year, the Best Places to Work in Financial Technology offers a glimpse into the practices of fintechs whose employees rate their workplaces highly," said Penny Crosman, executive editor of technology at American Banker. "This year, employees appear to value remote work and schedule flexibility above all else, at a time when many traditional financial firms have enforced strict return-to-work policies."  Companies from across the United States entered a two-part survey process to determine Arizent’s Best Places to Work in Fintech. The first part consisted of evaluating each nominated company's workplace policies, practices, philosophy, systems and demographics. The second part consisted of an employee survey to measure the employee experience. The combined scores determined the top companies and the final ranking. Best Companies Group managed the overall registration and survey process, analyzed the data and determined the final ranking.  “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.”  For more information on Arizent’s Best Places to Work in Fintech program, including full eligibility criteria, visit www.BestPlacestoWorkFinTech.com or contact Penny Crosman at [email protected].  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.  

Heading to college in 2026 is exciting, but paying for it can feel stressful, especially if this is your first time dealing with financial aid or student loans.   The good news is you don’t have to figure it all out at once. Starting early gives you a big advantage. You can find scholarships, understand federal aid, and figure out which student loan options make sense for you.  In this guide, we will walk you through tips on student loans so you know what to expect and exactly how to prepare.  Start With the FAFSA as Soon as It Opens  One of the first steps every high school senior should take, even if you plan on taking out student loans, is completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).  This form determines your eligibility for federal grants, work-study, and federal loans and many colleges and scholarships use it to award aid, too.  For the 2026–27 academic year, the FAFSA opened up on October 1, 2025, and the deadline to submit in time for most federal aid is June 30, 2027. Submitting early gives you the best chance at available grants and need-based aid, which don’t have to be repaid.   Even if you don’t think you’ll qualify for need-based aid, it’s still worth submitting. You might be surprised by what you’re eligible for, and completing it keeps your options open.  Apply for Scholarships Early and Often  Scholarships are one of the easiest ways to reduce how much you might need to borrow for college. Start looking early and check opportunities at the local, state, and national level, including awards from colleges, community groups, and employers.  Even smaller scholarships can add up fast, so don’t overlook them. And remember, Ascent also offers monthly scholarship giveaways!  For more information, check out our webinar on How to Pay for College with Scholarships, here.  Do Your Homework on Student Loan Options  We know student loans can feel overwhelming, but taking a little time now to understand your options can make a big difference later. The goal is to find a private student loan that works for your budget and your future.  Private student loans typically come in two types: fixed-rate and variable-rate:  Variable-rate loans can go up or down over time with the market. This can save you money if you plan to pay off your loan quickly, but it also comes with more uncertainty.  Fixed-rate loans stay the same for the life of your loan, so your payments won’t change. They can give you peace of mind, but your rate won’t drop if market rates go down.  Doing a little research now, comparing options, and asking questions can help you pick the loan that’s right for you. And remember, you don’t have to figure this out alone. Parents, guardians, your school’s financial aid office, and the team at Ascent can help you weigh your choices and feel confident about your decision.  Plan How Much You Really Need to Borrow  When getting ready to apply for a private student loan, plan how much you really need to borrow and only borrow what is necessary.   Private lenders limit loans to the cost of attendance, but this does not equal just tuition – this includes things like housing, textbooks, even a laptop. Your college will certify your cost of attendance when you apply and you can likely even see that when you decide to enroll at that school.  Smart budgeting can help you minimize your loan amount and avoid extra interest and repayment stress after graduation.  Consider a Cosigner for Student Loans  If you’re new to credit or have a limited credit history, applying with a cosigner can strengthen your application. A cosigner is who agrees to share responsibility for the loan, often a parent or trusted family member.   Because many cosigners have longer credit histories, their involvement can increase your chances of approval, improve your interest rate options and potentially unlock higher borrowing limits.   For many students, this is a practical way to access better student loan terms while building their own credit at the same time. Also, keep in mind that some lenders, like Ascent, offer a cosigner release which helps set students up for financial success and removes cosigner’s responsibility.  Keep Your Credit and Financial Habits Strong  If you decide to use private student loans, your credit score (or a cosigner’s score) may affect approval and interest rates. Learn how credit works, pay bills on time, and avoid opening too many new accounts too quickly. Good habits now can set you up for better borrowing terms and financial confidence later.  You’ve got this, and your financial planning now can set you up for success long after graduation!  Looking for more information? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Budgeting for College Students.  Learn More with Ascent  Navigating the student loan application process can be challenging, and Ascent is committed to providing students and families with the financial resources needed to pursue their dreams.     From financial wellness resources to our flexible private student loans and undergraduate student loans, we are here to help students and their families make informed decisions about their future in college, and beyond. 

SAN DIEGO, Feb. 19, 2026 Ascent, a leading provider of innovative financial products and student support services, today announced the successful close of its Series C funding round. Federal policy shifts that cap the amount of federal loans available for education are driving more students toward private lenders to help cover their tuition bills. The private student loan need is projected to double to $26B over the next three years, and Ascent is positioned to support these students looking to pursue their educational goals. The round was led by a global asset manager and provides the capital Ascent needs to grow its leadership team, scale its unique education financing platform and expand into critical new education verticals. Ascent has built significant momentum to meet this demand, establishing partnerships with more than 2,300 institutions and training providers, resulting in a 30% increase in loan originations year over year. Over the last decade, Ascent has disbursed over $1.5 billion in education loans to more than 220,000 families through its diverse suite of traditional college loans, including cosigned and non-cosigned options, and its industry-leading outcomes-based financing. "At Ascent, we've always believed that a student's potential shouldn't be limited by their current financial circumstances, but rather fueled by their future success," said Ken Ruggiero, Co-Founder and CEO of Ascent Funding. "As federal policies shift and traditional funding gaps widen, our mission to offer financing for traditionally overlooked and underserved individuals and families so they can gain access to post-secondary education and build a foundation for durable economic mobility has never been more important. This new capital will allow us to double down on our goals, providing students with the funding they need to invest in their future." Ascent is grounded in delivering innovative financing alongside a culture of respect, dignity, and personalized financial education and support, equipping students with the tools and confidence to succeed. This funding allows Ascent to continue to bring innovative products to students: Graduate Outcomes Based Loan Product — As federal policy shifts make graduate school harder to access, many qualified learners are at risk of being left behind. Ascent is committed to changing that through its continued focus on Outcomes Based Lending and bringing this solution to graduate students by evaluating each student's expected post-graduation earning potential, not just their current credit profile, to offer loans that they can afford to pay back post-graduation. Aviation Loan Program — Flight training tuition and expenses often exceeds $100,000 and are frequently ineligible for federal aid, leaving aspiring pilots with limited financing options. Ascent's Aviation Loan program is designed around early-career aviation pathways, evaluating students based on expected starting income rather than current credit history or cosigner access. The initiative builds on Ascent's established track record supporting skilled trades such as electrical lineworkers, welders, and healthcare professionals. Grad School Loan Calculator — A proprietary interactive digital tool that provides immediate clarity on the cost of advanced degrees. The calculator allows students and financial aid officers to model the total cost of attendance and the need for private student loans vs. federal loans, helping borrowers assess funding needs against future earning potential rather than traditional credit constraints. Ascent's growth is anchored by a team that understands both the complexity of student financing and the real lives behind every application. With this new funding, Ascent is announcing several leadership appointments to support its next phase of growth:  Ryan Gray, has been appointed Co-President and will oversee Finance, Capital Markets, Credit & Analytics, Technology, Operations and Human Resources. Tristan Fleming, has been appointed Co-President and will lead Sales & Marketing, Product, Impact, and Legal & Compliance. "Ryan Gray and Tristan Fleming have been instrumental to Ascent's growth for the last 10+ years and are widely respected leaders in education finance," said Ruggiero. "Their new roles position Ascent to accelerate innovation, bring new products to market faster, and respond to the evolving needs of students and schools." Along with a strong team of more than 120 professionals headquartered in San Diego, Ascent will continue to differentiate itself from traditional lenders by partnering closely with institutions and families, combining flexible financing with practical financial wellness support. This relationship-driven approach enables Ascent to scale across diverse markets while advancing our mission to increase borrower income by $10 billion by 2028, as well as remain focused on serving credit-invisible borrowers who are often overlooked by traditional credit models. TD Securities served as exclusive placement agent for Ascent on the Series C financing, and Cooley served as legal advisor to Ascent. For more information about Ascent's innovative financing and student success initiatives, visit ascentfunding.com. ABOUT ASCENTAscent 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, visit www.ascentfunding.com.

For nearly twenty years, the Grad PLUS loan program has been a major pillar of federal financial aid for graduate and professional students. These loans allowed students to borrow beyond traditional federal limits and cover their full cost of attendance, including tuition, housing, books, and living expenses. For many, Grad PLUS was the bridge that made graduate school financially possible.  However, starting July 2026, new Grad PLUS loans will no longer be available under the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) Act.   This pivotal change raises a central question: What will the end of Grad PLUS loans mean for the future of graduate education?  While the full impact remains to be seen, one word comes to mind: opportunity. Opportunity to innovate, rethink graduate funding, and build smarter, more sustainable solutions for students and institutions alike.  What’s Changing: New Federal Limits   Under the new law, federal borrowing for graduate students will be capped:  Graduate (Academic) Programs: $20,500 annual limit, $100,000 lifetime maximum  Professional Programs (Law, Medicine, etc.): $50,000 annual limit, $200,000 lifetime maximum.  Borrower Category Pre-OBBBA Limit New OBBBA Limit Undergraduate Stafford (Dependent) $5,500 - $7,500 per year; $31,000 aggregate Unchanged Undergraduate Stafford (Independent) $9,500 - $12,500 per year; $57,500 aggregate Unchanged Parent PLUS (Parents of Undergrad) Full Cost of Attendance $20,000 per year; $65,000 aggregate per student Graduate Stafford (Masters/PhD/MBA) $20,500 per year; $138,500 aggregate $20,500 per year; $100,000 aggregate Graduate Professional Stafford (MD/JD/DDS) $20,500 per year; $138,500 aggregate $50,000 per year; $200,000 aggregate Graduate Grad PLUS Full Cost of Attendance Eliminated All Federal Loans Combined No lifetime cap $257,500 lifetime cap  Previously, Grad PLUS loans allowed students to borrow beyond federal limits, filling gaps left by Direct Unsubsidized Loans. Once the program is phased out, students will need to explore other options, such as private loans, scholarships, or institutional aid, to fund their education. Financial aid offices will be crucial partners in helping students navigate these choices and stay on track with their goals.  A Brief Look Back: Grad PLUS and Its Impact  Grad PLUS loans weren’t just widely used; they shaped graduate education. While only 16% of graduate students rely on the program, Grad PLUS accounted for 32% of all federal graduate lending, showing just how central it became in helping students pursue advanced degrees. These loans were especially common in high-cost programs, with nearly a quarter of students in programs costing $25,000 to $70,000 using Grad PLUS, and that share rising to 30% for programs above $70,000, according to a 2024 report from the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce.  Beyond helping students, Grad PLUS also influenced institutions. The availability of additional federal funds allowed schools to expand programs, support student opportunities, and invest in resources. However, research suggests that tuition increases sometimes offset the benefits of increased federal lending. Today, according to recent federal data, about 1.8 million borrowers hold Graduate PLUS loans totaling approximately $119.2 billion in debt, a scale that demonstrates the program’s significance and the magnitude of this transition.  What’s Next: A New Era in Graduate Funding  With Grad PLUS loans being phased out, graduate education is entering a new era, one that calls for creativity, collaboration, and thoughtful planning.  For Students  For students, this shift requires the exploration of a broader mix of funding options. Scholarships, grants, and institutional aid will play an increasingly central role in covering costs, while private loans can provide flexible solutions to bridge any gaps. Engaging early with financial aid offices can help students build a comprehensive plan, minimize uncertainty, and feel more confident about their financial path through graduate school. Thoughtful planning now can reduce stress later and ensure students can focus on their studies and career goals without unexpected financial obstacles.  For Institutions  The end of Grad PLUS loans is prompting schools to rethink how graduate programs are funded. Hybrid approaches that combine scholarships, grants, and external funding can help students cover high-cost programs without relying on a single source of support.  Institutions are also exploring ways to make aid more flexible and targeted, from directing resources where they’re most needed to offering modular programs or tuition schedules that let students progress at their own pace.  Partnerships with private lenders can further support students, offering customized loan programs, streamlined processes, and flexible repayment options. Some lenders provide resources beyond financing, such as career readiness tools, coaching, and internship opportunities, to help students graduate on time and launch successful careers.  By combining these strategies, schools can create funding systems that are clear, manageable, and tailored to student needs, helping students navigate the post-Grad PLUS world with confidence.  For Private Lenders  As federal aid changes, private lenders can play a key role in supporting the graduate funding landscape post-Grad PLUS. Thoughtful partnerships open the door to solutions like customized loan programs, flexible repayment options, and streamlined processes that reduce administrative hurdles. Many lenders also provide additional support, offering resources including financial wellness tools, career readiness programs, and internship opportunities to help students successfully complete their programs and transition into their careers.  When considering private student loans, it’s important to choose a lender that’s transparent about rates and fees, offers flexible repayment options, and provides responsive support throughout your borrowing journey. Look for lenders who prioritize student needs, allow for cosigner release, and offer benefits like autopay discounts or hardship protections. Avoid companies that aren’t upfront about terms or make unrealistic promises, and always research reviews to ensure you’re partnering with a trustworthy lender who will support your goals from enrollment to repayment.  Check out our Guide to Choosing the Best Private Lender here, for more information.   Final Thoughts  The end of Grad PLUS is a moment for all stakeholders to think strategically, plan proactively, and embrace flexible solutions. With careful planning, collaboration, and thoughtful use of available resources, the post-Grad PLUS world can be a time of smarter, more sustainable funding that helps students pursue their education and institutions maintain vibrant, accessible programs with student success at their forefront.  About Ascent  Ascent is a mission-driven fintech company committed to redefining student lending through a focus on access, affordability, and lasting economic impact. Backed by institutional capital, we offer innovative loan options for college and career training programs—helping more students qualify, with or without a cosigner.  But funding is just the start. From career readiness tools to financial wellness resources to over $330,000 in no-essay scholarships, everything we build is designed to turn education into real opportunity. 

With Grad PLUS loans ending for new borrowers in July 2026, the private loan market for grad students has shifted fast. Lenders are competing harder for your business, rates vary widely based on your credit, and you've got more options than ever if you know where to look.

With Grad PLUS loans being phased out, graduate students and schools are facing new choices and considerations. While this transition brings some uncertainty, it also opens the door for schools to find new ways to guide and support students as they plan for their educational future.

Graduate funding is changing fast, and schools have an opportunity to rethink how they support students. With the end of Grad PLUS loans under the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) Act, institutions will need to explore new ways to help students cover the cost of high-cost programs like law, medicine, and business. These shifts open space for innovation, helping schools expand access and showcase the value of their programs.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation named Ascent a finalist in the 2025 Citizens Awards, a long-standing program that honors businesses for their leadership in solving the world’s biggest challenges.   Ascent was nominated for the Best Education and Workforce Program for its Zero Percent Loan initiative with The Forward Fund, designed to remove financial and educational barriers for adult learners to gain in-demand skills, advance their careers, and achieve lasting economic mobility in North Carolina.  “We are thrilled to be recognized as a finalist for this award,” said Ken Ruggiero, president & CEO of Ascent. “This honor celebrates the power of collaboration and innovation to expand access to education and career opportunities—creating real impact for learners and the communities they serve.”  This prestigious program recognizes the most innovative and impactful initiatives that leverage a company’s talent, resources, and expertise to improve communities.  Ascent collaborates with philanthropic investors, private funders, and public sector partners to deliver innovative, outcomes-based financing solutions that expand access to upskilling and higher education for adult learners. These partnerships fuel Ascent’s mission to unlock durable economic mobility by removing financial barriers and enabling learners to pursue high-impact training and career pathways.   “Across the country, millions of adults are eager to build new skills and advance their careers, but many are shut out by cost,” said Tristan Fleming, Chief Impact Officer at Ascent. “Our Zero Percent Loan program  helps remove that barrier, giving learners—especially those from low-income backgrounds—the skills and confidence they need to achieve lasting success and economic mobility.”  With minimal underwriting and a 90%+ approval rate, the Zero Percent Loan program allows students to pursue training with no interest or fees. It also offers protections such as payment deferral if a minimum income threshold isn’t met, plus living stipends to support program completion. The results speak for themselves: 98% of participants didn’t have a cosigner, 93% came from low-income backgrounds, and 76% had no college degree. After completing their programs, graduates report an average income increase of an impressive $24,000.  The winners of the 2025 Citizens Awards will be announced during the U.S. Chamber Foundation’s Business Solves Conference on October 28, 2025. Learn more about the awards program and register to attend the event here.    About Ascent   Ascent is a mission-driven fintech company committed to redefining student lending through a focus on access, affordability, and lasting economic impact. Backed by institutional capital, we offer innovative loan options for college and career training programs—helping more students qualify, with or without a cosigner.   But funding is just the start. From career readiness tools to financial wellness resources to over $330,000 in no-essay scholarships, everything we build is designed to turn education into real opportunity.   Learn more about how we’re working to increase student income by $10 billion by 2028 in our Impact Report.  About the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation    The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation harnesses the power of business to create solutions for the good of America and the world. We anticipate, develop, and deploy solutions to challenges facing communities—today and tomorrow.  

The elimination of Grad PLUS loans will fundamentally reshape how graduate students finance their education, challenging both access and affordability. Financial aid offices must proactively adapt policies, train staff, and guide, students to navigate a more complex funding system. 

Whether you're currently in school, preparing to start, or managing your loan repayment, Ascent provides practical tools and insights to help you make informed financial decisions with confidence. Paying for college can be confusing, especially with all the recent changes to financial aid and student loans. To help make things a little clearer, we partnered with Mission Federal and the University of San Diego to host “Understanding Student Loan Changes Amidst Uncertainty,” a webinar designed for students and families.   Ascent’s SVP and GM of AscentUP, Allie Danziger, Mission Fed's VP of Marketing and Community Relations, Neville Billimoria, and University of San Diego’s Director of Financial Aid, Kellie Nehring, shared helpful advice on FAFSA updates, scholarships, student loans, and how to plan for different college paths, whether that’s a four-year university, a community college, or something in between.  If you missed the webinar, no worries! You can watch it here but we’ve also summarized the learnings below.   Changes to Federal Loan Policy  Big shifts are on the horizon—new federal policy changes are set to reshape repayment, forgiveness, and loan eligibility in ways that every student and family should know about.  Starting July 1, 2026, federal loan regulations will undergo major updates that will directly impact how students and parents pay for college, beginning with the 2026–2027 academic year. Graduate students will no longer be able to borrow Grad PLUS Loans, a change that could make financing advanced degrees more challenging. For undergraduates, Parent PLUS Loans will still be available, but borrowing will be capped at $20,000 per year—posing funding gaps for families at higher-cost schools while having less effect at more affordable institutions. The good news? If you’re starting school this Fall and plan to use Grad PLUS or Parent PLUS Loans, your borrowing won’t be affected for the upcoming academic year. Still, these upcoming changes are prompting schools to explore creative solutions, from expanding institutional loan options to connecting families with private lenders. For students and parents alike, understanding these shifts early is key to preparing for the future of college financing.  Parent PLUS Loans have unique repayment rules that families should understand before borrowing. Eligibility requires a credit check, and repayment begins just 60 days after the second disbursement, often during the spring semester of a student’s first year. These payments cannot be deferred until six months after graduation, meaning parents may need to start making payments while their student is still in school. International students aren’t eligible for federal aid, but they may still qualify for other financial aid programs and resources.  Guidance for Navigating Student Loans  As you plan for the road ahead, it’s important to understand the key details of student loans to stay informed and make confident financial decisions.  Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year is the first and most important step in determining your eligibility for federal financial aid. Depending on your situation, you may also need to fill out an institutional or state application to maximize your options. For many students, federal loans will play a key role: subsidized loans are need-based and don’t accrue interest while you’re in school, as long as your Student Aid Index is lower than your school’s cost of attendance. On the other hand, unsubsidized loans begin accruing interest right away, though repayment is deferred until six months after graduation or withdrawal. Once repayment starts, it’s critical to stay on track—missing payments, even during forbearance, can create lasting challenges. Remember, you’ll be repaying the loan servicer that manages your account, so building good habits now will set you up for success after graduation. The good news is that repayment plans can be tailored to your income, giving you some flexibility as you begin your career.  Federal student loan interest rates typically shift by about 5–10% each year and reset every July 1st for the upcoming academic year. In contrast, private lenders adjust rates which can make them more competitive depending on the market.   Ascent offers low rates and multiple benefits that help students plan, pay, and succeed in college. Our borrowers also receive access to our AscentUP program which provides tools, resources, and coaching, as well as access to paid internship opportunities, to support students on professional development, building confidence, developing new skills, and jumpstart dream careers.  More Ways to Pay  Beyond student loans, there are several ways to help make college more affordable.  Campus jobs offer flexible hours and valuable experience, often available through the financial aid office, athletics department, or housing office. If you qualify, federal work-study can provide an added chance to earn money while gaining valuable experience. The key is to explore these options early at the schools you’re considering, so you can combine resources and create a strategy that makes paying for college feel more manageable.  When it comes to paying for college, scholarships are the ultimate win— it’s free money you never have to pay back. There are scholarships out there for nearly everything—academics, athletics, leadership, volunteering, unique hobbies, and even your favorite ice cream flavor. The more you apply for, the more chances you have to stack up real savings. For students 14+, Ascent offers no-essay scholarships! Check out the latest opportunities and enter to win here!  As you navigate paying for college, remember that you don’t have to do it alone—your school’s financial aid team is there to support you. Whether it’s asking about scholarships, staying on top of deadlines, appealing for additional aid, or finding out who to contact about repayment options, reaching out early can make a huge difference. Building a relationship with the financial aid office not only helps you avoid frustration and discouragement but also ensures you have a trusted resource to turn to whenever questions come up. Don’t hesitate to ask plenty of questions, seek advice, and lean on the broader network of support around you. By gathering input from multiple sources and staying connected, you’ll be better equipped to make confident, informed decisions about your financial journey! 

Why now, what it means, and how it aligns with our mission.  At a time when education costs are rising and student debt continues to dominate national conversations, Ascent has lowered interest rates for undergraduate student loans for a limited time. Fixed rates now start as low as 2.89% Annual Percentage Rate (APR)*, down from 3.09% APR, for eligible borrowers.  This isn’t just a pricing update. It’s a strategic move rooted in our mission: to reduce financial barriers to education, support stronger borrower outcomes, and deliver long-term value to students and their families.  Inside Ascent’s Latest Rate Drop  As of August 5, 2025, Ascent offers low fixed rates available for private undergraduate student loans, starting at just 2.89% APR*. This limited-time offer is designed to help ease the financial burden on students and families amid rising education costs.  To put this rate reduction into perspective, a $10,000 loan at 2.89% APR on a 5-year repayment plan—meaning fixed monthly payments of $179.20 over 60 months—would cost roughly $10,752.23 in total*. Compared to loans with higher interest rates, that could mean hundreds or even thousands of dollars saved over the life of the loan.  Even beyond the numbers, it’s the experience of our borrowers that truly illustrates the difference. Norelle, who recently chose Ascent, shared how our competitive rates and straightforward process made a difference for her:  “Loan options and interest rates are competitive, and the process was transparent and easy.”  For another borrower, Samantha, the value went deeper than just rates:  “It feels like you actually care about me and my goals beyond just a number on a page.”  These voices remind us that lowering rates isn’t just a financial decision — it’s about removing barriers and empowering real students to move confidently toward their futures.  Why is Ascent Dropping Rates Now?   Today’s students are navigating rising tuition, shifts in federal aid, and increasing financial stress. We lowered our rates now to reduce the cost of borrowing at a time when it matters most.  Here’s what drove the decision:  We Listen to Students: Recent surveys found that over 70% of college students feel stressed about their personal finances, and nearly 60% worry they may not have enough money to pay for school. We want to be part of the solution, not the stress.  We Took a Different Path: While many lenders are raising or holding interest rates due to economic uncertainty, we are determined to take a different approach take a different approach—one grounded in accessibility and long-term impact.  We Stay Grounded in Our Mission: Our role goes beyond traditional lending. We’re focused on helping students plan, pay, and succeed academically, financially, and professionally. That means building tools, rates, and resources that work in the real world and reflect what students actually need.  “By lowering our rates, we’re helping reduce the financial barriers that stand between students and the opportunities they deserve—not just access to education, but a real chance at durable economic mobility,” said Ken Ruggiero, CEO of Ascent.   Mission Meets Market  Lowering rates isn’t just a pricing decision, it’s a mission decision.  At Ascent, we’re building a different kind of student lending model—one focused on outcomes, not just loan origination volume. That means helping students graduate with less debt, build credit, and boost their long-term earning potential.  We’re not just funding tuition. Through student-friendly features such as an autopay discount,  as well as financial education, and tools like AscentUP**, we’re investing in futures.  “We built Ascent to make a real difference in students’ lives,” added Ruggiero. “Helping learners become earners is our commitment. And for many, that starts with an affordable rate.”  Does Ascent Anticipate Another Rate Drop? Why or Why Not?   While we can’t predict exact changes in the market, Ascent commits to remaining agile and student-focused in our approach. Future changes will be guided by the same principles that drove this one: respond to what students need, stay disciplined in our pricing, and continue evolving our products to meet the moment.  Looking Ahead  Lowering our rates is one way Ascent is expanding access to education and helping students succeed in school and beyond. Backed by best-in-class teams and technology, we’re constantly improving our financial products and support services to empower students to plan, pay, and thrive.  This update to rates, along with flexible repayment options, financial wellness tools, and career resources through AscentUP, reflects our commitment to delivering more than just funding. We’re focused on outcomes—academic, personal, and economic—that last well beyond graduation.  About Ascent  Ascent is a mission-driven fintech company committed to redefining student lending through a focus on access, affordability, and lasting economic impact. Backed by institutional capital, we offer innovative loan options for college and career training programs—helping more students qualify, with or without a cosigner.  But funding is just the start. From career readiness tools to financial wellness resources to over $330,000 in no-essay scholarships, everything we build is designed to turn education into real opportunity.  Learn more about how we’re working to increase student income by $10 billion by 2028 in our Impact Report.  * =Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) displayed above are effective as of 08/06/2025 and reflect an Automatic Payment Discount of 0.25% on credit-based college student loans submitted prior to 06/01/2025, a 0.5% discount on credit-based college student loans submitted on or after 06/01/2025, and a 1.00% discount on outcomes-based college student loans when you enroll in automatic payments. Loans subject to individual approval, restrictions and conditions apply. Loan features and information advertised are intended for college student loans and are subject to change at any time. For more information, see repayment examples or review the Ascent Student Loans Terms and Conditions. The final amount approved depends on the borrower’s credit history, verifiable cost of attendance as certified by an eligible school and is subject to credit approval and verification of application information. Lowest interest rates require full principal and interest (Immediate) payments, the shortest loan term, a cosigner, and are only available for our most creditworthy applicants and cosigners with the highest average credit scores. Actual APR offered may be higher or lower than the examples above, based on the amount of time you spend in school and any grace period you have before repayment begins. Variable rates may increase after consummation.  ** 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.