Private Student Loan Advice & College Financing Resources

 U.S. News & World Report, the global authority in rankings and consumer advice, has named Ascent the winner of the Best Private Student Loans for Parents as part of the 2026 Lending Awards.  “Being recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a Best Private Student Loan for Parents award winner underscores our focus on expanding access to education and driving economic mobility for student, that ultimately supports the entire family and future generations. We remain committed to delivering transparent, flexible solutions that support students and the parents and families who invest in their success,” said Ken Ruggiero, Co-Founder and CEO of Ascent Funding.  The awarded lenders were determined using a comprehensive, data-driven methodology which assessed factors including rates and fees, affordability, eligibility requirements, and customer service for lenders. For more information, read the Lenders Awards methodology.    “The 2026 Lending Awards recognize exceptional institutions, while also providing current and prospective borrowers with informed insights on financial institutions that can best support their personal financial needs and goals,” said Greg Garrison, consumer banking analyst at U.S. News.  U.S. News publishes consumer lending advice, calculators, mortgage rate forecasts, and more to help readers make the best money-related decisions for them. Consumers can find advice about personal and student loans, and much more at Money.USNews.com.  Why Ascent Stands Out  Ascent offers a range of benefits designed to support families navigating the costs of higher education:  Cosigner release opportunities* – Many students initially apply with a cosigner, with the option to release the cosigner later. This can be a significant benefit for the cosigner and the student, helping reduce long-term financial responsibility for the parents, and help the student borrowers establish their own strong credit.  No application, origination, or disbursement fees1 – Borrowers can focus on funding their education without added costs along the way.   Flexible repayment terms that fit every student – Ascent offers multiple repayment plans with fixed and variable interest rates, giving students the freedom to choose what works for them. Undergraduate students can start payments up to 9 months after graduation, while graduate and professional students have extended grace periods tailored to their programs (up to 36 months for medical, 12 months for dental).    AscentUP and internship program2 – Wrap-around support services and career-building opportunities designed to help students succeed in school, and prepare for the workforce, including access to exclusive paid internship opportunities.  Support for multiple programs – From traditional undergraduate and graduate degrees to career and trade school programs, Ascent offers options that meet diverse educational paths.  1% cash back graduation reward* – Eligible borrowers who meet terms and conditions can earn a reward when completing their program.  DACA eligibility – Eligible DACA students may apply for an Ascent loan, expanding access for students who may have fewer private loan options.  How Winners Are Selected  U.S. News evaluates lenders through a combination of quantitative metrics and editorial review, analyzing multiple key areas:  Interest rates and fees – Lenders are assessed on cost competitiveness, including any hidden or upfront charges.  Repayment flexibility – Options that allow borrowers to adjust schedules or choose terms that fit their budget are prioritized.  Cosigner support and release policies – For parents or students with limited credit history, these options can be a deciding factor.  Hardship programs – Availability of deferment, forbearance, or other protections when financial challenges arise.  Accessibility – Including eligibility for non-U.S. citizens, borrowers with shorter credit histories, and students in nontraditional programs.  Only lenders that balance affordability, transparency, and borrower support are recognized as winners. Being named a Best Private Student Loans for Parents signals that Ascent excels in these areas, helping families make informed financial decisions.  About U.S. News & World Report  U.S. News & World Report is the global leader for journalism that empowers consumers, citizens, business leaders and policy officials to make confident decisions in all aspects of their lives and communities. A multifaceted media company, U.S. News provides unbiased rankings, independent reporting and analysis, and consumer advice to millions of people on USNews.com each month. A pillar in Washington for more than 90 years, U.S. News is the trusted home for in-depth and exclusive insights on education, health, politics, the economy, personal finance, travel, automobiles, real estate, careers and consumer products and services.  About Ascent  Ascent is a leading provider of innovative financial products and wrap-around student support services that enable more students to access education and achieve academic and economic success. Everything Ascent offers is designed by leading industry professionals and with advanced technology and innovation to increase every student’s ability to plan, pay, and succeed.   Ascent’s rare Outcomes-Based Loan provides funding to credit-invisible borrowers who generally do not benefit from traditional credit. Ascent products also include: Cosigned Loans, Solo Loans, Career Loans, Parent Loans, Graduate Loans, Access Loans, Enterprise Loans and Impact Loans.  * For more information, including eligibility requirements, terms, and conditions, please visit https://www.ascentfunding.com/ascentbenefitsterms  1Only Ascent college loans are eligible for no fees. Ascent career training loans are subject to a one-time origination fee of 5.0% of the loan amount. All Ascent loans are eligible for no application, disbursement, late, NSF or early payment fees.  2 Ascent applicants and borrowers that agree to the AscentUP Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, as well as students associated with an Ascent parent loan application, have access to the AscentUP platform.  Please note: Ascent Funding, LLC products are made available through Bank of Lake Mills or DR Bank, each Member FDIC. Subject to credit approval.  Please borrow responsibly by maximizing scholarships and free financial aid, comparing federal and private student loans, and choosing the loan that best fits your needs. 

Your credit score is a number between 300 and 850 that’s determined by a range of factors including the current amount of debt you have, the type and number of bank accounts you have open, how you utilize your credit, your payment habits, and your credit history (if you have any).  By understanding credit scores and why they matter, you’re well on your way to reaching financial independence.  Why does my credit score matter so much?  Many people think that the main reason they need a good credit score is the ability to borrow money. While this is true and better credit can lead to better approval rates for credit products (like a credit card or loan), lower interest rates, and better credit terms and benefits, a good credit score is also important for your career success. Many careers and professional opportunities today may require you to manage finances or determine your department’s spending and budget, and at the very least show that you are responsible with finances. Employers occasionally check credit history as part of the interview process – and you want your credit history to look good!  Curious what kind of student loan rates you can get without impacting your credit score? Check your rates here.  Have a lower score? Here are 6 ways to build your credit history:  1. Learn to budget  Think of budgeting as a roadmap for your money. You calculate how much money you earn, and figure out what you can and can’t afford. When you budget well, you're more likely to pay your bills on time and manage your debts responsibly. This shows lenders that you're reliable, which can gradually increase your credit score.   Whether it’s finding a mentor, using free education tools like AscentUP2, helpful budgeting apps, or keeping track of subscriptions that can sneak up on you, budgeting is essential for managing your finances effectively and achieving your financial goals.  If you’re looking for more information on how other students budget, learn from Gemma Cook, a past intern at Ascent, on her best practices on our blog!  2. Apply for a secured card   A secured credit card can help you build your credit history.   As an example, with the NerdUp by NerdWallet card, you don’t need credit history to build credit history. Designed for people looking to build or rebuild their credit history, there’s no interest, no annual fees, no application fees, and no catch*.   How the NerdUp by NerdWallet card works:  Make a deposit: Put down an initial deposit of $100 or more to set your credit limit  Build your credit: As you make on-time payments and strengthen your credit, you may start to become eligible for unsecured cards.  Get a new card: When you're ready to graduate, NerdWallet will recommend smart unsecured credit cards from its partners based on your spending.  3. Keep track of deadlines to avoid late or missed payments  Be sure to keep track of when your bills are due - if you miss a payment or pay late, it can negatively affect your credit score. But don't worry! By staying organized, being proactive, and making sure you pay on time, you're showing lenders that you're good at managing your money which gives you an opportunity to boost your credit score.   Be sure to keep a planner or set calendar reminders with all your due dates and sign up for autopay  to avoid late or missed payments! (TIP: Some lenders will give you discounted rates when you sign up for autopay.)  4. Consider credit counseling  Credit counseling can be a smart move if you're struggling with debt or managing your finances. When you meet with a credit counselor, they'll take a close look at your finances, including your income, expenses, debts, and savings. Based on this information, they'll help you come up with a plan to manage your money better.  Working with a credit counselor not only helps you manage your finances better but can also positively impact your credit score. So, it's not just about managing your money—it's also about making your credit score look good too!  5.Add your rental history to your credit reports  Adding your rental history to your credit reports can be a smart move for building your credit history. Your payment history is a key factor in determining your credit score, and including on-time rental payments can demonstrate responsible financial behavior to lenders.  By showing that you consistently pay your rent on time, you're building a positive credit history, which can help you qualify for loans, credit cards, and other financial products with better terms in the future.  6. Choose your lenders wisely  Good lenders can help you build a strong credit history, making it easier to get approved for loans and credit cards in the future. But if you choose lenders who aren't so great—maybe they have sneaky fees or unfair practices—it could actually hurt your credit and wallet.   At Ascent, we are committed to helping students and families build responsible credit; as a leading student lender, we are focused on each student’s journey to academic and financial success, ensuring they have the right tools, knowledge and skills to be set up for long-term success. We put our borrowers first with benefits like a 1% cash back graduation reward1, access to AscentUP2 a professional training platform to help learners get access to career readiness tools and resources that can help them succeed in school and in their careers, autopay discounts3, and much more.   So, take your time, do some research, and choose a lender that treats you right, and helps you reach your credit goals without any nasty surprises!  Your credit score can stick with you for a long time, but it doesn't have to be a burden. With the right tools and patience, you can build your score and create more opportunities for yourself. It's all about establishing credit responsibly, being proactive and managing your credit wisely by paying bills on time and keeping balances low. It takes time, but with dedication, you can make positive changes and set yourself up for financial success!  *NerdUp by NerdWallet credit card: NerdWallet is not a bank. Bank services provided by Evolve Bank & Trust, member FDIC. The NerdUp by NerdWallet Credit Card is issued by Evolve Bank & Trust pursuant to a license from Mastercard International Inc.   The NerdUp maximum credit limit is $10,000. Any deposits above this amount will not increase your credit limit beyond $10,000.  Impact on your credit may vary, as credit scores are independently determined by credit bureaus based on a number of factors including the financial decisions you make with other financial services organizations. Failure to make monthly minimum payments by the payment due date each month may result in delinquent payment reporting to credit bureaus which may negatively impact your credit score. This product will not remove negative credit history from your credit report.  There are instances when cardholders will be assessed a fee, including but not limited to ATM withdrawals, cash advances, returned payments, or late payments. See NerdUp by NerdWallet and cardholder terms and conditions for details.   1Ascent’s 1% Cash Back Graduation Reward is for eligible college students only and subject to terms and conditions. Eligible students must request the graduation reward from Ascent. Learn more at AscentFunding.com/CashBack. 1% Cash Back Reward amount dependent upon total loan amount for Ascent college loan borrowers; approximately $365 average reward amount based upon eligible borrowers who received Cash Back Rewards in 2023.         2Eligibility for the AscentUP platform requires that a student be an undergraduate associated with an Ascent college loan, either as the borrower or through a parent, grandparent, guardian, or sponsor who has applied for an Ascent parent loan. Ascent’s graduate student loans and consumer loans for bootcamps do not qualify for access to AscentUP. Eligible students must agree to the AscentUP terms of service and privacy policy before accessing AscentUP.      3The 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. 

Student loan counselor Taunya Kennedy knows what it’s like to be overwhelmed by debt. The 45-year-old single mother has a mortgage and credit card balance, and still shoulders her own college loans after years of postponing payments.