With zero origination fees and lower interest rates, it is easy to see why our private student loan solution is a better way to pay for college. Whether you are a student yourself or the parent of a student, Widget Financial is here to help.

Our Credit Union Student Choice private loan solution will help fill funding gaps that federal aid can leave behind. As the cost of both public and private colleges and universities continues to increase, federal funding has not kept pace. This growing gap between what college costs and the financial aid available is causing many families to resort to higher-cost private student loans to pay for higher education.

College is a big investment, which is why it’s important to know your options, plan ahead, and choose wisely to pay for it. Most families do not have enough college savings to pay for four years of tuition, room, board, books, and other expenses, so financial aid will come into play. Widget Financial can help you plan, and help you bridge the gap! We recommend you follow these three steps to fund your college education: 

First, you should take advantage of scholarships and grants, which cost you nothing and do not have to be repaid if you meet certain conditions. These may come from your high school, community, college, or other organizations. Grants are usually awarded to students with financial needs. Scholarships, however, can be based on need or academics, activities, and community involvement. 

After scholarships and grants, you can turn to federal student loans. A loan is money that you borrow and must pay back with interest, but federal loans may come with benefits not available from other types. They generally come with a fixed interest rate that is lower than other loans and may have income-based repayment plans or public service forgiveness available. You will find federal student loans offered within your award letter from your college.  

When scholarships, grants, and federal student loans aren’t enough, you may need to consider private student loans made by private organizations like Widget Financial to fill the remaining gap. Our private student lending solution comes with competitive rates, an easy online application, personalized support, and a unique line of credit that allows you to secure funding for your entire undergraduate career with just one application! * 

* Subject to annual review and credit qualification. Must meet school’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements.