The easy and cost-effective way to pay for school.
When it's time to pay for school, there is a simple way to cut through all the financial information. It's as easy as "get the cheapest money first." And that's as easy as Sallie Mae's 1-2-3 approach to paying for college.SM
1. Use free money first
Look for financial aid that does not have to be repaid, like scholarships and grants. Be sure to fill out the FAFSA to see if you qualify for need-based federal grants. Consider supplementing with your current income and money saved through a college savings plan, and explore an interest-free monthly payment plan.
Ask around, visit Sallie Mae's free scholarship search, and get all the "free money" you can.
Explore our tuition payment plan — an interest-free monthly installment option that helps you better manage the cost of education.
Take advantage of our Upromise college rewards program, 529 college savings plans, and online savings accounts.
2. Explore federal student loans
Explore federal student loan programs. You can qualify for a federal unsubsidized Stafford loan regardless of financial need. It has a fixed interest rate and flexible repayment options.
3. Fill any gap with pay-as-you-go private student loans
Private student loans can help cover the rest of your college costs. With Sallie Mae’s Smart Option Student Loan®, you can graduate with less debt, pay off your loan faster, and save significantly over the life of the loan. All because you pay a little now to save a lot later. Securing a creditworthy cosigner may help you qualify or reduce your interest rate.
