Federal vs. Private Loans

SB1289 Disclosure

Students considering student loans need to be aware of the differences between federal student loans and private student loans: 

  • Federal student loans are required by law to provide a range of flexible repayment options including, but not limited to, income-based and income-contingent repayment plans as well as loan forgiveness benefits that private lenders are not required to provide. 
  • Federal direct loans are available to most students regardless of income. Other qualification criteria do apply. For more information, please visit http://www.studentaid.ed.gov/eligibility
  • Private student loan lenders can offer variable interest rates that can increase or decrease over time, depending on market conditions. 
  • The interest rate on a private loan may depend on the borrower’s and/or co-signer’s credit rating. 
  • Private student loans have a range of interest rates and fees and students should determine the interest rate of, and any fees associated with, the private student loan included in their financial aid award package before accepting the loan. Students should contact the lender of the private student loan or their UC campus’ financial aid office if they have any questions about a private student loan. 

< Back to Financial Aid

vector icon of building

Corporate Education

Learn how we can help your organization meet its professional development goals and corporate training needs.

Learn More

vector icon of building

Donate to UCLA Extension

Support our many efforts to reach communities in need.

Innovation Programs

Student Scholarships

Coding Boot Camp

Lifelong Learning