Subject: Learn About Federal vs Private Student Loans

We're sharing information on all of your student loan options to ensure you make informed decisions before borrowing.

Lending an Ear

A weekly guide to financing college.

April 13, 2025

Subsidized vs. Unsubsidized Loans: What's the Difference?

All students who complete the FAFSA are eligible to receive federal student loans, but there are two different types available. Learn what subsidized and unsubsidized loans are and how they are awarded.

How to Know Which Loan to Choose

If you still need additional funds to cover college costs after maxing out on federal student loans, you'll need to decide between a federal Parent PLUS loan or a private student loan. Learn the pros and cons of both options before making a decision.

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Our Private Lender Suggestions:

(Variable APRs as of 4/11/25)


Note: We recommend you borrow federal student loans first. Once you've exhausted your federal loan eligibility, carefully compare your options from private lenders.


➡️ College Ave 4.44%-17.99%


➡️ SoFi 4.64%-15.99%


➡️ Sallie Mae 4.54%-14.71%


➡️ Ascent 5.01%-14.02%


➡️ Student Choice Rates as Low as 4.03%*


Before you commit to a private lender, check out Juno to see if you're getting the best loan rate available for your credit profile.


*Student Choice is a company that serves credit unions so they can offer fair-value student lending solutions. They will help you find a credit union to borrow student loans through. Rates vary by credit union.

We're Here to Help You!

🐻 Use Mama Bear Legal Forms to make sure you can help your student in an emergency. Enter promo code Road2College & save 20%.


💰 Compare your student's college offers to what other student's have received with our FREE Compare College Offers tool.


🎓 Protect your college investment with GradGuard tuition and renters insurance.


💻 Join our free PFC101 Facebook group and connect with other parents on the paying for college journey.


🎁 Save 10% off diploma frames and treat your student to a graduation gift with DiplomaFrame. Use coupon code ROAD2COLLEGE for your discount.

Our R2C Content Team is dedicated to helping families navigate the

ever-changing world of college admissions and financing. 

Lending an Ear is written & edited by Becca Blauch.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this email is for general informational purposes only. Road2College is not a financial advisor or planning service, and as such, cannot be held responsible for any direct or indirect circumstances. Please consult a licensed financial professional before making any financial decisions. Road2College may receive compensation from products and links featured in this email. When evaluating offers, please review the financial institution’s Terms and Conditions. Pre-qualified offers are not binding.