Student Loan Consolidation: Some Tips to Making the Most of It

Aug 13
07:59

2012

Devora Witts

Devora Witts

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After several years of expensive study, most graduates emerge from college only to face huge debts. The most prudent option is to turn to student loan consolidation, a move than can be highly beneficial.

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It is not difficult to understand how a student can graduate from college with a greater debt on their shoulders than most home owners. The cost of university education is so high today,Student Loan Consolidation: Some Tips to Making the Most of It Articles that the combined annual fees over five years of course study can be as high as $250,000. Taking control of this debt, usually split between individual loans, requires student loan consolidation.For those who are not sure what this means, it involves taking out one major loan at a more competitive interest rate to buy out all of the college loans that existed until graduation. It is recognized as the only real option if a graduate wants to take control of their debt, and stand any chance of lifting the weight off their shoulders.Of course, with student loans taken out from different lenders and at different rates of interest, the process of consolidating this debt is more complex than it might seem. Looking at the available options carefully, and in detail, can ensure the best benefits are enjoyedAdvantage of Consolidating LoansAs already mentioned, the chief advantage to student loan consolidation is that a range of loans can be brought together into one manageable sum, with one rate of interest charged. At the very least, this simplifies what is otherwise a complex situation, with perhaps four different repayment dates each month only increasing the pressure to make individual repayments on time.Consolidation also means that a more competitive interest rate can be secured, which in turn reduces the monthly payments required, the pressure to meet the obligation and, also, the overall cost of the loan.Perhaps most importantly, however, is the fact that by buying out the existing student loans, each is marked down as being cleared in full, which only benefits the graduate by improving their credit score.Making the Most of ItLike any other proactive scheme, it is important to make the right decisions to ensure that student loan consolidation is as beneficial as it can be. This comes down to a number of factors.Crucial amongst them is securing a more competitive interest rate than was previously charged. This should be made possible by two factors: firstly, that the debt is now centralized into one loan sum; and secondly, the fact the loans were bought out means the credit score is improved, thereby entitling the borrower to a lower rate.Accurately calculating the true debt figure is also essential. When a debt is spread over four or five separate student loans, this can become rather complex. However, careful examination should be able to ascertain the accurate figure.Find the Right LenderOf course, the right lender is also essential if student loan consolidation is to be as effective as it should be. Different lenders will have different criteria for consolidation loans, as well as a number of hidden fees. It is important then that careful consideration is given to options before making a final decision.With this in mind, it is a good idea to write down the options that are available. Noting which lending institutions offer a competitive interest rate, and which offer the required loan limits, and which have no hidden charges (or at least the lowest), is key to finding the right lender.Most student loans come from private lenders, and it is sometimes viable to approach these lenders with a view to negotiating a consolidation deal. The addition of loans from public lenders means that an agreement can be complicated a little, but by knowing the ideal interest rate, a good deal can be agreed upon.