Types of Student Loans
The main types of U.S. student loans — federal and private — explained in plain English: what each is, who it's for, and how it works. Informational only; verify current terms at studentaid.gov.
Graduation starts with the right loan
Millions of students rely on federal and private loans to reach graduation day. This guide covers every major loan type — what each one is, how its rate and limits are set, and the trade-offs to weigh before you borrow.
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All student loan types (A–Z)
Compare student loan & refinance options →Federal Direct Subsidized LoansFederal Direct Unsubsidized LoansFederal Perkins Loans (Historical)FFEL Program LoansGrad PLUS Loans (Direct PLUS for Graduate Students)Health Professions Loans (HRSA-Administered)Income Share Agreements (ISAs)Income-Driven Repayment (Repayment Context)Loan Consolidation (Federal vs. Private)Parent PLUS Loans (Direct PLUS for Parents)Private Student LoansState-Agency & Nonprofit Lender LoansStudent Loan Refinancing