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. 

Building credit might feel far off while you’re still in high school, but starting early can give both students and parents a head start on financial confidence. Your credit history affects more than just loans—it can influence renting your first apartment, buying a car, or even signing up for a cell phone plan.  This guide explains how to start building credit safely, what age is appropriate, and common mistakes to avoid, so teens can establish a strong financial foundation that lasts into college and adulthood.  Understanding Credit History  Credit history is the record of how someone manages borrowed money over time. It includes information about credit cards, loans, and other accounts, showing whether payments are made on time, how much debt is carried, and how long accounts have been open. Lenders, landlords, and even some employers use this information to assess financial reliability.  Even if your teen has never opened a credit card or taken a loan, they can start building credit in other ways. For example, being added as an authorized user on a parent’s account lets them begin establishing a positive credit profile. Without any credit history, teens may become “credit invisible,” making it harder to access loans, rent apartments, or qualify for favorable rates later.  Why Credit Matters for Students  A strong credit history can open many doors as teens transition into adulthood. It affects their ability to rent an apartment, qualify for student or car loans, secure lower interest rates, and even sign up for cell phone or utility accounts. Starting to build credit in high school gives teens the chance to practice responsible habits in a low-stakes environment. By paying balances on time, keeping credit utilization low, and monitoring spending early, they can avoid costly mistakes and set themselves up for financial confidence in college and beyond.  The Right Time for High Schoolers to Start Building Credit  There isn’t one strict age to begin, but high school is an ideal stage for high schoolers to start building credit. Teens can start as early as 13–16 years old by becoming authorized users on a parent’s credit card. This gives them credit history exposure without legal responsibility for the debt.  For older teens ready to manage their own account, student or secured credit cards are appropriate around 16–18 years old, depending on the issuer. Starting early provides a low-risk environment to learn about credit, balances, payments, and interest before college or major financial obligations.  How to Start Building Credit in High School  Starting to build credit in high school doesn’t have to be intimidating. One of the simplest ways is for a teen to become an authorized user on a parent or guardian’s credit card. This approach allows the teen to benefit from a positive payment history while the parent remains legally responsible for the account. It’s a safe way to introduce the concept of credit, letting teens see how balances, payments, and interest work in real time.  For older teens who are ready to manage their own account, student or secured credit cards can be excellent tools. Student credit cards are designed for young borrowers with little or no credit history and typically come with lower limits, making them easier to manage. Secured credit cards require a cash deposit that becomes the credit limit, offering a controlled environment for teens to learn responsible usage while minimizing risk.  No matter the method, the focus should be on building consistent, healthy habits. Paying balances on time, keeping credit utilization low, and regularly monitoring accounts are essential practices that can set a teen up for long-term financial success. By guiding teens through these steps, parents can help their children gain practical experience, develop confidence in handling money, and lay the foundation for a strong credit history that will benefit them well into adulthood.  Benefits of Building Credit Early  Starting to build credit in high school has long-term advantages. A positive credit history can help you qualify for better interest rates on student loans, personal loans, and auto loans. It can make renting your first apartment easier, since landlords often check credit before signing a lease. Even some employers check credit reports as part of the hiring process.  Beyond practical benefits, learning to manage credit early helps you develop financial discipline. You’ll understand the importance of paying bills on time, tracking expenses, and making intentional financial choices. These lessons can prevent costly mistakes and give you confidence when handling larger financial responsibilities in college and adulthood.  Common Mistakes to Avoid  While building credit early has benefits, it must be done carefully. High school students should avoid overextending themselves. Maxing out credit cards, missing payments, or applying for too many accounts at once can hurt your credit score.  It’s also important to monitor your credit reports for errors. Mistakes can happen, and catching them early prevents unnecessary damage to your score. You can request free credit reports annually from the three major bureaus, and some apps provide ongoing monitoring to help you stay on top of your credit health.  Another common mistake is treating credit like free money. Even small balances need to be paid on time. Late payments or accumulating debt can undo months of careful credit-building. Start small, pay in full each month, and increase responsibility gradually.  Final Thoughts  Building credit in high school is not about taking on debt or rushing into financial responsibilities. It is about learning, practicing, and laying the groundwork for financial independence. Students who start early have a better chance of securing loans with lower interest rates, renting apartments without stress, and avoiding costly financial mistakes.  Looking for more info? Check out our latest guide to Why Your FICO Score Matters to Lenders, here.   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. 

If you’re applying for student loans, credit cards, or other financial tools for the first time, you’ve probably heard the term FICO® Score. But what does it actually mean, and why does it matter so much when you’re paying for school?

Applying for a private student loan can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time dealing with things like credit, interest rates, and loan paperwork. You might be wondering how approval works, what lenders look for, or how you can improve your chances of getting approved.  The good news is that there are simple, practical steps you can take to make your application stronger from the start!  Whether you’re applying on your own or with a cosigner, preparing ahead of time can help you find better options and feel more confident in the process.  Here are seven essential tips to help you improve your private student loan application and set yourself up for success.  1. Check Your Credit Before You Apply  Your credit history plays an important role in many private student loan applications. Before you apply, take time to review your credit report and FICO® Score so you know where you stand.  Many banks and credit card companies offer free access to your score, and you can also request your credit report through Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion.   Reviewing your credit early helps you understand what’s affecting your score and where you can improve. If you’re just starting out, focus on making every payment on time, keeping credit card balances low, and avoiding maxing out your limit. Small habits like setting up autopay or paying more than the minimum when you can, can build strong credit over time and make the process feel more manageable.  2. Dispute Errors on Your Credit Report  Checking your credit is important, but accuracy matters just as much. Your credit report shows the full picture of your borrowing history, including every loan, credit card, and payment in your name. Lenders review this entire report, not just your score, when evaluating your application.   As you review it, look for anything that does not seem right, such as accounts you do not recognize, incorrect balances, or payments marked late when you paid on time.  If you find an error, take action. You can dispute inaccurate information directly with the credit bureau and the lender that reported it. Fixing mistakes early can help protect your credit and prevent small issues from affecting your approval.  3. Apply With a Cosigner When It Makes Sense  If you’re new to credit or have a limited credit history, applying with a cosigner can strengthen your application. A cosigner is someone—often a parent or trusted family member—who agrees to share responsibility for the loan.  Because many cosigners have longer credit histories, their involvement can help:  Increase approval chances  Improve interest rate options  Unlock higher borrowing limits  At Ascent, we saw 4x higher approvals offs when students apply for an Ascent loan with a cosigner*. For many students, having a cosigner is a practical way to access better 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.  4. Borrow Only What You Need  Private student loans are usually limited to your school’s certified cost of attendance, which includes tuition, housing, meals, books, and basic living expenses. Before applying, take a few minutes to review these costs and think honestly about what you really need to cover.  A helpful approach is to start with your total school costs, then subtract any money you already have from savings, scholarships, grants, or family support. The remaining amount is often a better estimate of what you actually need to borrow.  Applying for scholarships  Completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) each year to access federal student loans and other university-based financial aid  Contacting your school’s financial aid office to negotiate your financial aid offer.  Taking advantage of on-campus work-study programs to make some money during school  Borrowing only what you need now can make a big difference later. Smaller loan balances often mean lower monthly payments after graduation and more flexibility as you start your career.  5. Show Strong Financial Habits  Lenders look for signs that borrowers can manage money responsibly. Simple habits can make a meaningful difference in how your application is reviewed.  Focus on:  Paying all bills on time  Keeping credit card balances low  Avoiding unnecessary debt  Maintaining existing accounts in good standing  These habits strengthen your credit profile over time and signal reliability to lenders.  6. Do Your Research on Loan Types  When you apply for a private student loan, you usually have the choice between fixed-rate and variable-rate loans. Understanding the difference can help you pick the option that fits your circumstances.  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 can help you choose a loan type that works for you today and keeps your options open for the future.  7. Apply When You're Financially Ready Timing matters. Applying when your credit is in good shape, your cosigner is also prepared, your documents are organized, and your school information is confirmed can make the process smoother and less stressful.  Before you apply, make sure you have:  Your school and program details  Cost of attendance information  Any income documentation, if required  A cosigner lined up, if needed  Having everything ready can help prevent delays, reduce mistakes, and make it easier to get approved quickly. It also gives you a clear picture of how much you actually need to borrow so you can plan with confidence.  What If You’re Not Approved Right Away?  If your application isn’t approved on the first try, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed, and it doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Many students strengthen their applications by adding a cosigner, improving their credit, or adjusting their borrowing amount.  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.    * 4x higher acceptance rates were observed between November 2024 through January 2025 across all products when a loan application is cosigned vs without a cosigner. Ascent’s minimum credit requirements vary based on loan product, credit history, and whether you’re applying with a cosigner. You can see your rates without impacting your credit score to help you determine which product could be best for you based on your unique circumstances. 

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 168,000 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 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.