How international students can get help  with student loans

Understanding student loans

Applying for international student loans
The first hurdle international students face when seeking a loan is eligibility. Many loan providers require a U.S. citizen or permanent resident as a cosigner, which can be a significant barrier for students without connections in the U.S.
It’s crucial for international students to fully understand the terms and conditions of their loans. The terms and conditions of loans include the interest rate, repayment terms and potential penalties for late or missed payments. Although options are more limited for international students, it’s still important to research the different loan providers to see which one best fits your needs. For any potential student loan provider, be sure to look at their reputation, loan terms and customer service.

Refinancing or consolidating student loans
International student loans often come with higher interest rates and fees than federal student loans available to U.S. students. This can make the cost of student loans higher for international students. Refinancing student loans can be a way to manage these costs, especially if repayment becomes a challenge. For example, if you’re a student who took out loans with another provider that required a cosigner and collateral, refinancing through an organization like MPOWER Financing could release your cosigner and collateral, giving you greater financial freedom.

Supplementing student loans with scholarships
Financial aid scholarships and grants can significantly reduce the amount students need to borrow. Keep in mind that grants can come with conditions that, if unmet or broken, cause repayment to be triggered. Generally, scholarships and grants don’t need to be repaid. International students should explore these opportunities to supplement their student loans. Some international student loan providers like MPOWER Financing offer international scholarships directly to students.