Private Student Loan Advice & College Financing Resources

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. 

More high school grads are going straight to community college after graduation. Learn why students are choosing community college after high school.

Learn about Expected Family Contribution (EFC), now called the Student Aid Index (SAI), and its role in determining financial aid eligibility.

Subsidized and unsubsidized loans are part of the federal direct loan program and offer students various loan options. Learn more.

From forbearance and deferment options to general debt management, if you’re having trouble making student loan payments check out these 7 tips from Ascent Funding.

College application deadlines determine the dates student applications must be submitted to be considered for the upcoming school year. While every college is free to set its own application deadlines, many colleges have the same deadlines or at least similar ones. Most colleges offer multiple application options, including early action, early decision, regular decision, and rolling admission.  Which application deadline you submit can impact your eligibility for certain admissions or program types. It can also influence your likelihood of acceptance or the number of schools you can choose between. If you’ve been wondering when college applications are due for fall 2026, we have everything you need to know. When to Apply for College: Fall 2026 Most college application deadlines fall within narrow windows of about two weeks. This is because most colleges and high schools follow similar academic years, which simplifies the process for students and institutions. Below are some key college application deadlines to have on your radar for the 2025-2026 academic year.  Early action: November 1–15, 2025 Early decision: November 1–15, 2025 Regular decision: January 1–15, 2026 Rolling admission: No set deadline While you’ll have to start planning earlier, it’s smart to apply for early action or early decision if you can. The sooner you know what college you’ll attend, the less stress you’ll feel the rest of the year. Aim for the following college deadlines if you plan to apply for early admission for the 2026 school year:  April–May 2025: Take the ACT or SAT June 2025: Request letters of recommendation August 2025: Start writing your essays October 2025: Apply for student aid November 2025: Submit application Remember that these are just general guidelines. Application deadlines for colleges vary, so it’s important to check the official website of each school you’re interested in. Types of Application Deadlines for Colleges When college applications are due for fall 2026 is probably only your first question. You’ll also want to know what each type of application means and when you can expect a decision. Check out the chart of college deadlines below and then read on for more detailed information.  Admission TypeDescriptionApplication DeadlineAdmission DecisionEarly actionApply to a single school earlyNovember 1–15, 2025Mid-DecemberEarly decisionApply to multiple schools earlyNovember 1–15, 2025Mid-DecemberRegular decisionApply to multiple schools using the standard processJanuary 1–15, 2026Mid-March to early AprilRolling admissionOngoing admissions until all spots are filled No set deadline4–6 weeks after application Early Decision (ED) Deadlines Early decision allows you to apply to a single school (typically your top choice) early in your senior year of high school. If you’re admitted under early decision, you are committed to attending that college and must withdraw any other applications, so it’s important to be sure the school is the right fit.  Many colleges notify early-decision applicants by mid-December, giving you an earlier answer compared to other application types. However, since you must commit if you’re accepted, you won’t have the opportunity to compare financial aid offers from multiple schools. Early Action (EA) Deadlines Early action allows you to apply to a school early in your senior year of high school (often at the same or similar deadline to early decision). Unlike early decision, early action is non-binding, meaning you can apply to multiple schools and wait to make a final choice. This allows earlier awareness and more flexibility in the college decision process. Some schools offer restrictive early action, which limits how many early applications you can submit, so be sure to check each school’s policies. Regular Decision (RD) Deadlines Regular decision is the standard application process. Applications are due in late fall or early winter, and acceptances are sent out in late winter or early spring. You may apply to several colleges under regular decision deadlines without forming a binding commitment. This option gives you the most time to complete your application, gather recommendation letters, and improve your academic record before applying. Rolling Admissions Deadlines Schools with rolling admissions have no set deadline and typically accept applications from fall through spring, often from September to June, though it varies. Decisions are usually sent out within a few weeks of applying, which means you may receive an acceptance letter much sooner than with regular decision. While this offers flexibility, it’s still best to apply as early as possible, because spots may be limited later in the admission cycle. College Transfer Deadlines College deadlines for transfer students vary tremendously from institution to institution and semester to semester. For example, most colleges that accept transfer students have separate fall semester transfer deadlines, spring semester transfer deadlines, and summer semester transfer deadlines. Some schools also have priority deadlines for transfer students, which can help increase your chances of receiving financial aid or securing a spot in competitive programs. Scholarship Deadlines Applying for scholarships on time is one of the most important things you can do to improve your likelihood of both receiving financial aid and increasing the amount of aid you receive. Since deadlines vary widely, it’s a good idea to keep a list of upcoming scholarship opportunities and submit applications as early as possible. Some scholarships require essays, recommendation letters, or additional materials, so give yourself plenty of time to prepare.  Get a head start on scholarships by applying for one of Ascent’s no-essay scholarship giveaways today. Late Applications and Special Conditions Application deadlines for colleges are strict and not meeting them usually means you will not be accepted into that school (especially for more competitive schools). But if you miss a deadline, it does not mean all hope is lost. Late college applications can present special challenges, but you may have options. Here are some of the most helpful things you can do: Apply for rolling admissions: Because institutions with rolling admissions accept applications until all spots are filled, they may be an option for applicants who missed deadlines at other schools. Research late deadline options: Some colleges offer extended deadlines for specific circumstances, especially if their class has not been filled. Check admissions websites for details or contact the admissions office directly. Be prepared to explain why you could not meet the application deadline, supported by documentation. Seek a deadline extension: Even if your desired school doesn’t have an extended deadline, they might be willing to accommodate special circumstances if notified in advance. To maximize your chances of consideration, contact admissions offices as early as possible, explain the circumstances clearly and concisely, and offer a plan with a reasonable timeline.  Explain in your application: Address any challenges or adversity you have faced, especially if these circumstances impacted your ability to meet the application deadline. Many colleges provide a section where you can provide additional context or include a personal statement that can be leveraged for this purpose. Seek support from guidance counselors: High school guidance counselors can provide general support and may have advice on handling your particular circumstances.  Pros and Cons of Early Applications There are many potential benefits of meeting early application deadlines for college. However, some early application deadlines might bind you to a particular school, so it is important to be careful. Some of the most important benefits of early applications include: Increased chance of admission: Most colleges have a higher acceptance rate for early applicants. Applying early shows you’re serious about attending, especially if you’re willing to commit through early decision. Many schools take that into account. Plus, you’ll have less competition because the pool of applicants is smaller. Higher priority for financial aid: Financial aid is limited to public and private sources. Many institutions distribute aid on a first-come, first-served basis, and many private and public scholarships do the same. Reduced stress: Not only does hearing back early reduce the stress associated with waiting to hear back from college (especially if it is the student’s dream school), but it also gives both you and your family more time to plan, prepare, and apply for financial aid and scholarships. However, when college applications are due early, you might feel rushed or run into other disadvantages: Early decision is binding: If you apply early decision and are accepted, you must attend that school, which means you can’t compare financial aid offers from other colleges. This can be unfavorable if the school doesn’t offer enough financial aid to meet your needs. Less time to prepare: Early deadlines mean you have less time to improve your GPA, strengthen your extracurricular activities, or retake standardized tests. If you need more time to boost your application, applying early may not benefit you. Key College Applications Deadlines 2024 Most college application deadlines fall within narrow windows of about two weeks. This is because most colleges and high schools follow similar academic years, which simplifies the process for students and institutions.  Below are some key college application deadlines to have on your radar for the 2024-2025 academic year: Early Decision and Early Action Deadlines – November 1-15, 2024 Regular Decision Deadlines – January 1-15, 2025 Rolling Admissions – Ongoing until all spots are filled  Financial Aid deadlines – Dates vary Scholarship deadlines – Dates vary Remember that these are just general guidelines. It’s important to check the official website of each school you are interested in for that specific institution’s deadlines. Tips and Strategies for Meeting College Application Deadlines As you start thinking about when college applications are due, you should also be getting organized so you can make sure your applications are accurate, submitted on time, and paint you in the most favorable light. Here are some tips and strategies: Create a timeline: Develop a detailed timeline that includes application deadlines for the schools you want to apply to, standardized test dates, and any other relevant milestones.  Set incremental goals: Break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. Identify which tasks require the most time, like completing essays and gathering recommendation letters, so you can prioritize those. Utilize digital tools: Apps like Trello, Notion, Evernote, or Todoist can help you list application deadlines, scholarship due dates, and test registration cutoffs. Set reminders to give yourself time to finalize everything. Set up a specially dedicated calendar: Calendar apps like Google Calendar allows you to color-code and categorize, set reminders, sync your calendar across devices, and share it with your supporters. Keep all documents in one place: Use Google Drive or Dropbox to store copies of your transcripts, essays, recommendation letters, and test scores so you can easily access everything you need. Apply with Confidence with Ascent While you may be wondering when college applications are due, that’s just one step in achieving your higher education goals. One of the most important decisions you must make regarding your education is how to pay for college. Although financial aid and scholarships may cover a portion of your expenses, they may not cover the full cost of attending college.  Ascent's private undergraduate student loans can help fill those gaps. Our cosigned student loan and no cosigner student loan options are designed to provide students and their families with the support they need. Let us help you achieve your financial and educational goals. FAQ When Should You Start Applying for Scholarships for College? You can start applying for scholarships as early as your junior year of high school, and some colleges even accept applications from younger students. Many scholarship deadlines fall between the summer before senior year and early spring of senior year. Applying early gives you more opportunities to secure financial aid and reduces the amount you need to borrow for college. Do You Apply for College Junior or Senior Year? Most students begin the college application process in the summer or fall of their senior year. However, junior year is a great time to start researching schools, preparing for standardized tests, and gathering application materials. Some special programs or early admissions opportunities may allow students to apply before senior year, but most regular applications open in August or September of senior year. How Strict Are College Application Deadlines? Application deadlines for colleges are typically very strict, and missing them can mean losing your chance to apply for that term. Some schools may offer late application options, but competitive programs usually have firm deadlines with no exceptions. It’s always best to submit your application early to avoid last-minute issues and ensure everything is received on time. When Are Application Deadlines for Colleges? Most early decision and early action deadlines fall between November 1 and November 15, while most regular decision deadlines fall between January 1 and January 15. However, every college can set its own application deadlines, so you should check with the official admissions website or the admissions department of every college you’re considering. What Does the FAFSA Have to Do with the Deadline to Apply for Colleges? The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as FAFSA, is closely tied to college application deadlines, and its submission is a critical component of the financial aid process. Many colleges use the FAFSA to determine a student’s eligibility for financial aid, such as federal grants, work-study programs, and federal student loans. It's important to submit the FAFSA as early as possible to maximize eligibility for certain aid types and meet FAFSA deadlines. Check out the Ascent guide to FAFSA for more information.

Ascent Funding explains what student loan forbearance is and what the pros and cons of forbearance are. Learn more and see if you qualify.

EFC stands for Expected Family Contribution and is a number used in the FAFSA process to help calculate your eligibility for financial aid. Learn more about EFC and the switch from EFC to SAI.

Making the decision to go to dental school is a big decision. That’s why it’s important to have a clear understanding of the financial investment that you are signing up for. As you begin to explore your dental school options, you’ll also come across how you’ll navigate the costs and fund your education. Whether you are just starting to think about dental school, or starting your application, this guide will offer you the tools and information you may need about DAT fees, finding ways to pay for your tuition through scholarships, payment plans and more, to make your process easier and get you started on the right track.   “Pursuing a career in healthcare is undeniably challenging, but for those fueled by true passion, it becomes a deeply rewarding journey. The first and most important step is developing the right mindset and being prepared.” - S. Chintalapudi, Dental School Applicant  What is the DAT & What Are the Fees?  The DAT is the Dental Admission Test and it is crucial to your application process. The exam includes four sections timed over five hours and fifteen minutes. It is accepted by all dental schools in the U.S., and select schools in Canada, and is one of the factors that is considered when evaluating a potential student. When you apply for the exam, there is a non-refundable and non-transferable exam fee of $560. There is also a partial fee waiver that can cover 50% of the exam fee and 100% of a full practice test, but there are a limited number available per year. Additionally, you may have to qualify for additional requirements that you can find on the American Dental Association website and Candidate Guide.   In addition to figuring out how you will pay for the costs of the test, also make sure to choose the right testing day for you. Give yourself enough time and budget to take all the practice exams you may need and hire a tutor if  needed. Planning for your DAT exam properly will help set you up for success, both academically and financially!  “Beyond tackling rigorous science classes, you might need tutoring, which can range from free to $30 an hour. Shadowing dentists and volunteering are typically free but require significant time investment. Then comes preparing for the DAT. Prep courses range from $400 to over $1,000. Accelerated courses focusing on “high-yield” topics add another $100 or more per class. While many resources are available, programs like DAT Booster or Bootcamp often provide sufficient preparation within three months to six months.” - S. Chintalapudi, Dental School Applicant  Understanding Tuition  Similar to undergraduate tuition, dental school tuition can vary depending on if you are attending a public or private institution. On average, public dental schools have a total tuition of about $180K and private total tuition of up to $330K, as according to the ADA. However, tuition does not include everything you may need when in school. There are additional costs for dental instruments, textbooks, living expenses such as housing, food, transportation, and other potential school materials. These expenses could impact you by potentially adding another $32,000 or so to your total expenses.   “When interviewing at each school, the administration is pretty transparent on what the cost breakdown for everything is, but I didn’t expect dental school to cost more than medical school!” - T. Nguyen, Current Dental School Student   What are your funding options?  Don’t let the expenses overwhelm you. There are many ways you can fund your tuition and other expenses while in school.   Work Study: There are work study programs that give you the opportunity to earn money while also gaining experience on or off campus. Check with your school to verify if this is an option for you!   Part-Time Employment can also help provide a source of income as you balance work and study hours.   Payment plans may be another option for you if your school offers them. Payment plans allow you to separate your tuition payments into installments rather than paying the full amount all at once, which can make the expense more manageable.   Scholarships are also an option for you whether you are an undergraduate or graduate student. Ascent has helped students by awarding over $330,000 in no-essay scholarship giveaways! Big or small, any amount you are awarded can help cut your costs.   Ascent offers Dental School Loans with flexible repayment plans!  Get the financial flexibility you need to attend dental school by exploring your options and taking note of how you can prepare as you start applying.   “Expenses can accumulate quickly, including DAT prep courses, interview travel costs, primary and secondary application fees. However, planning ahead and seeking out resources and mentorship can make a significant difference in navigating this process more smoothly.” - M.Le, Dental School Applicant  Before you begin your dental school journey, keep in mind the costs of the Dental Admission Test (DAT), tuition, and living expenses. Being proactive in figuring out your funding options is the first step to preparing for a successful journey. While the application process and funding options can seem intimidating, Ascent is here to provide the information and resources that you may need. Contact a student loan specialist today.  

While managing your student loans can be intimidating, there are ways to simplify staying on top of repayment! It is important to organize information such as what type of student loan you have, certain dates you need to know, your repayment plan, and how to track your payment progress in a way that makes it easy to stay on top of. In this guide, we’ll break down how you can organize and manage your student loan repayment without stress.  The Cost of Missing Payments  Staying disorganized with your student loans could turn into some serious financial consequences. Losing track of payments could lead to missing payments, which then could lead to late fees, higher interest rates, and this could put your credit score in jeopardy. Don’t let your student loans become a long-term burden and take care of your future by being prepared and staying organized today.   Your Student Loan Options  First off: to manage your student loan repayment, you have to understand what type of loan you have. Do you have a federal student loan, a private student loan, or both? Gather the information you need about your loans, including the amounts, interest rates, and due dates. These key details will help you stay organized and avoid missing payments. Where can you get this information? Try checking your loan documents in an online dashboard or account. Make sure you know how to contact your loan servicer, which is the company that handles your payments, in case you have questions or concerns.  Creating your Payment Plan  Once you’ve gotten a clear understanding of your loans, you’re ready to create a payment plan! Most student loans have monthly minimum payments, which are the smallest amount that you are required to pay each month. However, paying more than the minimum payment can help you pay off your loan faster! If your budget allows it, or if you’re able to, paying more than the minimum can make a huge difference over time, and lower the amount of student loan interest you will pay in the future. With Ascent, there are no early repayment fees!   To stay on top of your monthly payment, and avoid missing one, you can enroll in automatic payments where the funds are automatically taken out of your bank account. Here at Ascent, we offer borrowers a 0.25%-1.00% discount on every payment when you are signed up for autopay*. If autopay is not available for you, or if you want another way to keep track of your payments, set personal reminders such as adding a reminder in your digital calendar or writing it in your physical calendar – however you keep track of important school or work deadlines. The key to having a successful plan is finding one that works for you.  Track your Payment Progress   After you’ve created a payment plan, it is essential to stay on top of your repayment by tracking your progress. Keeping track of your payment history and loan balance can help spot any potential discrepancies and see how far you’ve gotten. In addition, stay in touch with your loan servicer as they can provide updates on your account and let you know of any issues relating to your payments. Keeping an open line of communication with your servicer is a way to be proactive with your loan, so that you’re never caught off guard. Ascent has an app that makes it easy for you to manage your loans whenever and wherever you may be. The AscentConnect App allows you to make payments, set up autopay, check your updated loan details or balance, and more.  Extra Way to Pay: Scholarships  Applying to scholarships is an additional way to get funding for your student loan repayment. There are scholarships available for undergraduate and graduate students. Most scholarship applications are free, and it doesn’t hurt to apply - the key is to never stop applying! Even if you don’t think you’d be a good fit, you never know. Every scholarship that you are awarded can go toward reducing your loan balance or your expenses. The more you apply, the better your chances of being awarded some financial aid. Ascent has given away over $330,000 in scholarship giveaways to date. Apply now and make sure you sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date with future opportunities to win dollars for school.   Paying Off Your Student Loans:  Understanding your student loan type, creating a repayment plan, tracking your progress, and finding ways to reduce expenses are key steps in effectively managing your student loan repayment. While paying off student loans can feel overwhelming, breaking the process into manageable steps can make it easier and more manageable. Stay consistent with your student loan payments, and while it may take time, you'll pay off your loans sooner than you think!   * The final ACH discount approved depends on the borrower’s credit history, verifiable cost of attendance, and is subject to credit approval and verification of application information. Automatic Payment Discount of 0.25% is for credit-based loans and a 1.00% discount is for outcomes-based loans when you enroll in automatic payments. For more information, see repayment examples or review the Ascent Student Loans Terms and Conditions. Automatic Payment Discount of 0.25% available for Credit-Based Loans and Career Training Loans and an Automatic Payment Discount of 1.00% available for Undergraduate Outcomes-Based Loans. Learn more at AscentFunding.com/Ts&Cs. 

Ways to pay for college: Why the order matters If you're figuring out how to pay for college, the price can feel overwhelming. The good news is that most students don't pay the full sticker price. Once scholarships, grants, and other aid are applied, what you actually owe is often much lower. It also helps to know that you probably won't pay for college with just one source. Most families combine four or five different sources: free money, federal aid, work, savings, and sometimes a loan to cover what's left. The order you use them in matters. Start with money you never have to pay back, then move to federal aid, and only then consider borrowing from a private lender. This guide walks you through each step so you can build a plan that keeps your costs as low as possible. Key takeaways Know your real number first. Your cost of attendance and net price matter more than the sticker price. Start with free money. Scholarships and grants never need to be repaid. File the FAFSA. It unlocks grants, work study, and federal student loans. Work, save, and use payment plans to shrink what you borrow. Borrow federal before private. Federal loans come with fixed rates and borrower protections. Fill any remaining gap last with private student loans, after cheaper options are used. Cut costs where you can, so there's less to cover in the first place. Step 1: Know your real number Before you look at ways to pay for college, figure out what you actually need to cover. When you think about how to pay for college tuition, remember that tuition is only one piece. Start with the cost of attendance. Cost of attendance is the school's estimate of the full cost of a year of college, including tuition and fees, housing, meals, books, supplies, transportation, and personal expenses. Tuition might be only part of what you'll spend. Next, look for a net price calculator on each school's website. You enter some basic information about your family's finances, and the calculator estimates what you might pay after grants and scholarships. Two schools with very different sticker prices can end up costing about the same. Finally, know the difference between an aid offer and a bill. Your aid offer lists the grants, scholarships, work study, and loans you're eligible for. Your bill shows what you owe the school directly. Loans in your aid offer still have to be repaid, so they don't actually lower your cost, they just change how you pay it. Step 2: Scholarships and grants Scholarships and grants are free money. You never have to repay them, which is why they should be the first place you look for funding. Grants are usually based on financial need. They can come from the federal government, your state, or your school. The federal Pell Grant is the best known, with a maximum award of $7,395 for the 2026–27 award year. Scholarships can be based on grades, talent, community service, your intended major, your background, or simply entering a giveaway. You can find them through: Your school's financial aid office Your high school counselor Local businesses, community groups, and religious organizations Employers, including your parents' employers Free scholarship search websites Lenders and companies, including Ascent's no-essay scholarship giveaways Apply to as many as you reasonably can. Think of it as a numbers game: the more you apply for, the better your chances. Don't skip the small, local awards. A $500 scholarship from a community organization may get far fewer applicants than a big national award, so your odds can be much better. Several small scholarships can add up quickly. Keep a simple list of deadlines and requirements, and reuse essays where the prompts overlap. Scholarships aren't just for high school seniors, either. Many are open to current college students, so keep applying every year. Step 3: File the FAFSA The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, is your key to federal aid. It's also free to file, so you should never pay anyone to submit it for you. The FAFSA unlocks: Federal grants, like the Pell Grant Federal Work-Study, which helps you earn money through a part-time job Federal student loans, which usually cost less and offer more protections than private loans Your FAFSA isn't just for federal aid. Many states and colleges use the information on it to decide who gets their own grants and scholarships, so filing it can help you qualify for even more free money. File even if you think your family earns too much. There's no income cutoff to file, and some aid, like Direct Unsubsidized Loans, isn't based on need. Many schools also require the FAFSA before they'll consider you for their own scholarships. Timing matters too. The 2027–28 FAFSA is open now, and the federal deadline is June 30, 2028. State and school deadlines are often much earlier, so file as soon as you can. You'll also need to submit a new FAFSA each year you're enrolled in school to continue receiving financial aid. To learn more, read how the FAFSA works and check your FAFSA eligibility. Step 4: Work study and part-time jobs Earning money while you're in school can reduce what you need to borrow. Federal Work-Study is a need-based program that you qualify for through the FAFSA. It helps you find a part-time job, often on campus or with a community service organization. Your aid offer shows how much you're eligible to earn, but you still have to find and work the job. Work study pay is typically sent to you as a paycheck, not applied directly to your bill. Work-Study earnings are generally taxable, but they aren't counted as income when your school calculates your federal student aid eligibility for the following year. A regular part-time job works too, on or off campus. It may pay more, but it may be less flexible around your class schedule. Be realistic about hours. Working a moderate number of hours per week can fit alongside a full course load, but working too much can hurt your grades and make it harder to graduate on time. Work income usually covers living expenses like books, food, transportation, and personal expenses. It rarely covers tuition on its own, but every dollar you earn is a dollar you don't have to borrow. Step 5: Savings and payment plans Savings and family contributions can cover a big share of college costs without adding debt. 529 plans are tax-advantaged savings accounts for education. Money grows tax free and can be withdrawn tax free for qualified education expenses, like tuition, fees, housing, books, and supplies. If your family has a 529, check the plan's rules before withdrawing so you use it for qualified costs. Family contributions can come from parents, grandparents, or other relatives, whether from savings or current income. Talk openly as a family about what everyone can realistically contribute each year so there are no surprises. Tuition payment plans let you spread your bill over monthly payments during the semester instead of paying it all at once. Many schools offer them for a small enrollment fee or none at all, and they usually don't charge interest. That means your family can pay part of the bill from monthly income rather than borrowing. Together, these options can shrink the gap you need to cover with loans. Step 6: Federal student loans If savings and payment plans don't cover everything, federal student loans are usually the next step. They're offered by the U.S. Department of Education, and you qualify by filing the FAFSA. There are two main types for undergraduate students: Direct Subsidized Loans are for students with financial need. The government pays the interest while you're in school at least half time, during your grace period, and during deferment. Direct Unsubsidized Loans are available to undergraduate students regardless of need. Interest starts adding up from the day the loan is paid out. Federal loans have fixed interest rates set by Congress, so your rate won't change over the life of the loan. For the 2026–27 award year, the rate for undergraduate Direct Loans is 6.52%. There are annual and total limits on how much you can borrow, based on your year in school and whether you're a dependent or independent student. For example, a dependent first-year student can borrow up to $5,500 per year. Federal loans offer multiple repayment options including income-driven repayment options, deferment and forbearance, and forgiveness programs such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness for eligible borrowers. Borrow only what you need, even if you're offered more. You can accept part of your loan amount and turn down the rest. Step 7: Use private student loans to cover the rest If you've used scholarships, grants, work, savings, and federal aid and still have a gap, a private student loan can help cover what's left. Private loans are supplemental. They're meant to fill a remaining gap, not replace federal aid. Here's how private student loans typically work: They're often credit based. Lenders look at credit history and income, so approval and rates will vary. A cosigner is usually needed. Most undergraduate students don't have enough credit history to qualify on their own, so a parent or other trusted adult often cosigns. A cosigner shares responsibility for the loan and may help you get a better rate. You can often choose fixed or variable rates. A fixed rate stays the same for the life of the loan. A variable rate can start lower but may change over time. Before you borrow, compare lenders on interest rates, fees, repayment options, grace periods, and whether they offer cosigner release. Eligible juniors and seniors may also be able to get a student loan without a cosigner, like Ascent's outcomes-based loan. Many lenders let you check your rate without affecting your credit score. Whether you apply with a cosigner or on your own, Ascent's undergraduate student loans can help you cover your remaining costs, with flexible options and resources so you can pay for school with confidence. Step 8: Cut the cost instead of funding it Sometimes the best way to pay for college is to need less money in the first place. Here are a few ways to lower your total cost: Start at community college. You can complete general education courses at a lower cost, then transfer to a four-year school. Check transfer agreements so your credits count. Stay in state. Public schools usually charge much lower tuition for state residents. Earn credit early. AP, IB, CLEP, and dual enrollment courses can help you skip some college classes and save on tuition. Live at home or commute. Housing and meals can be one of the biggest parts of your cost of attendance. Graduate faster. Some programs offer three-year degrees, and taking a full course load each term can help you avoid paying for extra semesters. Ask about employer tuition help. Some employers offer tuition assistance for employees, including part-time workers. If you're going back to school as an adult, make sure to ask your employer about tuition assistance first. Even one or two of these can make a real difference in your total cost. How to pay for college without parents If you're paying for college on your own because your parents aren't able to help, you still have options. Start with the FAFSA. If you're under 24, you'll usually need to include parent information. But you may qualify as an independent student if you're married, a veteran, supporting a child, a ward of the court, or experiencing homelessness, among other situations. If you have unusual circumstances, such as an unsafe home, your school's financial aid office can review a dependency override. Independent students can often receive more federal aid, including higher Direct Loan limits. If you need a private loan, a cosigner doesn't have to be a parent. A grandparent, relative, family friend, or other trusted adult with good credit may be able to cosign. If no one can cosign, look into student loans without a cosigner. Some lenders offer loans based on factors beyond credit history, such as your school, major, or expected graduation date. How to pay for college with no money saved Not having savings doesn't mean college is out of reach. Start by filing the FAFSA as early as possible. It's free, and it unlocks grants, work study, and federal loans. Students with the greatest financial need often qualify for the most grant aid. Next, stack as much free money as you can. Apply for scholarships every year, and ask your school's financial aid office about institutional grants. Finally, choose a school you can afford. Compare net prices, not sticker prices, and consider community college or an in-state public school. A school that offers more aid can end up costing less than one with a lower sticker price. How parents pay for college Parents who want to help pay for college usually use a mix of these options: 529 plans and savings. Money saved over time is usually the least expensive way to help. Parent PLUS loans. These are federal loans for parents of dependent undergraduate students. For loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2026, borrowing is capped at $20,000 per year and $65,000 total per student. Private parent loans. Private parent loans can help cover remaining costs, with the loan in the parent's name. Cosigning. Instead of borrowing themselves, parents can cosign their student's private loan. The loan stays in the student's name and helps them build credit. To compare Parent PLUS and parent student loans in detail, see Parent PLUS vs parent student loans. A realistic example Here's how one student might stack different sources to pay for a year of college. These are illustrative numbers for example purposes only. Your costs and aid will be different. Say a student's cost of attendance is $30,000 for the year. Here's how they might cover it: SourceAmountFederal and state grants$4,000Scholarship from the school$6,000Local scholarship$1,000Federal Direct Loan$5,500Work study$2,500Family contribution and payment plan$8,000Total before a private loan$27,000Remaining gap$3,000 After using free money, work, family help, and federal aid, this student has a $3,000 gap. That's where a small private student loan could come in. Because they used cheaper options first, they borrow far less than they would if they'd started with a private loan. To see what monthly payments might look like, try our student loan calculator. Frequently asked questions What is the best way to pay for college? The best way to pay for college is to use the cheapest money first: scholarships and grants, then savings, then federal aid, then a private loan for whatever is left. Free money never has to be repaid, so it should always come first. Savings and family help can cover costs without adding debt. Federal loans come next because they offer fixed rates and borrower protections. A private loan should fill only the remaining gap. How do most people pay for college? Most families combine multiple sources to pay for college rather than relying on just one. According to NASFAA’s 2026 coverage of how families paid for college in the 2025–26 academic year, those sources can include family income and savings, scholarships and grants, and borrowing. Mixing sources helps families keep borrowing lower and spread costs across different options. Can you pay for college without loans? Yes, but it usually takes a mix of free money, working in school, choosing a less expensive school, and family help. Students who receive large grants or scholarships, start at community college, live at home, and work part time may be able to graduate without borrowing. It's not realistic for everyone, though. If you do need to borrow, keeping the amount small and choosing federal loans first can help. How do I pay for college if my parents won't help? Start by filing the FAFSA and checking whether you qualify as an independent student, which can increase the federal aid you receive. If you have unusual circumstances, ask your financial aid office about a dependency override. For a private loan, a cosigner doesn't have to be a parent. A relative or trusted adult may be able to help. You can also look into loans that don't require a cosigner. Should I take federal or private loans first? Take federal loans first, every time. Federal student loans have fixed interest rates set by Congress and don't require a credit check for undergraduates. They also offer income-driven repayment and forgiveness options that private loans don't have. Private student loans are best used to cover any gap that remains after you've used scholarships, grants, savings, and federal aid. How much should I borrow for college? Borrow only what you need to cover your remaining college costs after scholarships, grants, savings, and other financial aid. Before borrowing, consider how much you expect to earn after graduation and whether the monthly loan payments will fit within your budget. A student loan calculator can help you estimate what your monthly payments might look like after graduation. The best way to pay for college: Build your plan in order Paying for college works best when you follow the right order. Know your real number, then use scholarships and grants and file the FAFSA. Work, save, and use payment plans to shrink what you borrow, then take federal loans before anything private. Look for ways to cut costs along the way. If there's still a gap after all that, a private student loan can help you cover the rest. Ready to cover what's left? Apply Now