Direct-to-Consumer Alternative Education Loans!

Direct-to-Consumer alternative education loans are a revolutionary new solution to paying for education. This credit-based private/alternative loan is unlike the typical federal or other private student loans in that it is not tied to the school financial aid office or institutional need-based financial aid systems; it's strictly between the student, the family and the lender. You do not apply for a direct-to-consumer education loan through the school or the financial aid office. School certification of enrollment and loan amount or a co-payable school check is not necessary. Loan funds are disbursed directly to the borrower and the funds can be used for whatever education-related expenses you choose. No school involvement means faster loan processing. 

However, always remember that the “First Steps” in educational financing is to educate yourself about financial aid. Before borrowing, consult with your school's financial aid office and explore other funding sources such as savings, scholarships, grants, and work study programs before borrowing. Always try to keep borrowing to a minimum. 

With proof of enrollment such as a copy of the tuition bill, acceptance letter or registration, a direct-to-consumer alternative education loan can provide supplemental funding when other financial aid does not cover costs.  Some families turn to private loans when the federal loans don't provide enough money, when they need different repayment options or wish to use alternative sources to pay or manage the “complete” college bill.  For example, you might not want to liquidate other assets at the time the college bill is due or find the timing of your cash flow incompatible with the college bill payment schedule and other family or business expenses.  A direct-to-consumer alternative education loan can be used for any education-related expenses, such as tuition, books, computer and transportation.  

Although not an institution-based loan, direct-to-consumer alternative education loans provides funding options and solutions that benefits schools, students and families alike.  With a direct-to-consumer alternative education loan there are no federal forms to complete. Unlike Federal loans, a direct-to-consumer education loan is credit based with established credit criteria that considers the borrower’s credit history, among other things when reviewing a loan application.  Parents and students are encouraged to review their credit history prior to applying to assure that their credit reports are accurate and up-to-date.  Twenty-five percent of credit reports, which list credit and borrowing activities, had errors serious enough to cause consumers to be turned down for a loan or a job, according to a 2004 survey by the U.S. Public Interest Research Group.  For access to your free credit report go to www.annualcreditreport.com, call 877-322-8228 or write to Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281. 

Direct-to-consumer alternative education loans are available for Undergraduate, Graduate, and Continuing Education students as well as for Elementary & Secondary education.

START Education Loan Program