Wednesday, May 9, 2007

Student Loan Consolidation: Off the pressure

Finding money for college can be as challenging as pursuing a degree. Student loans can provide the needed cash; but once students graduate, they have amassed a huge debt. Thanks to the student loan consolidation program, though, graduates can remove the pressure.

By consolidating student loans, you can merge all outstanding loans into a single indebtedness with one lender and one repayment plan. The individual loans are paid off in full, and the total amount is rolled over into the new loan. Student loan consolidation is available to either students or their parents.

Combining loans lets you lock in a fixed interest rate that's typically lower than the original loan rates. You also lower your monthly payment. These loans have flexible repayment options and no fees, charges, or prepayment penalties. What's more, there are no required credit checks or co-signers.
Eligibility requirements

To be eligible, you must either be in the post-graduation six-month grace period, or have started to repay your loans. The total amount of your indebtedness must be a minimum of $7,500, with more than one lender, and you should not have already consolidated. However, if you've returned to school and have additional loans, consolidation is an option once again.

The following types of loans can be merged:

* Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans
* Subsidized and Unsubsidized Student Car Loans
* Direct and Federal PLUS Loans
* Direct and Federal Consolidation Loans
* Guaranteed Student Loans
* Federal Insured Student Car Loan
* Federal Supplemental Loans for Students
* Auxiliary Loans to Assist Students
* Federal Perkins Loans
* National Direct Student Loans
* National Defense Student Loans
* Health Education Assistance Loans
* Health Professions Student Loans
* Loans for Disadvantaged Students
* Nursing Student Loans

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