Citizens Bank
Citizens Bank Student Loans
4.4
Major bank offering student loans with established relationships, competitive rates, and in-school borrowing options.
The Bottom Line
Citizens Bank brings banking institution stability to student lending. Good for borrowers who value bank relationships or need integrated banking and lending services.
At a Glance
| Loan Amount | $1,000 - $200,000 |
| Fixed Rate | 6.24% - 14.18% |
| Variable Rate | 5.24% - 13.18% |
| Branch Access | 2,600+ locations |
| In-School Deferment | Available |
| Co-Signer Release | After 24 payments |
| Processing | 5-7 business days |
| Credit Score Min | 670 |
| Fixed APR | 6.24% - 14.18% |
| Variable APR | 5.24% - 13.18% |
| Loan Amounts | $1,000 - $200,000 |
| Term Lengths | 5, 7, 10, 15, 20 years |
| Origination Fee | None |
| Grace Period | 6 months |
| Co-Signer Release | Available |
| In-School Deferment | Available |
Bank Institution Stability
Citizens Bank is a major financial institution with over 2,600 branches nationwide and significant assets. This institutional scale and stability appeal to borrowers concerned about lender reliability. The bank has weathered economic cycles and maintains strong capital ratios. Your loans will be managed by an established financial institution, not a startup fintech company. For risk-averse borrowers, this institutional backing matters.
Integrated Banking Relationship
If you have a Citizens Bank checking or savings account, student loans integrate with your banking dashboard. You can view all accounts (checking, savings, loans) in one place. This integration creates efficiency for borrowers who do their banking at Citizens Bank. The unified view simplifies financial management.
In-School Borrowing with Flexibility
Citizens Bank offers in-school deferment, allowing current students to borrow and attend school simultaneously. A 6-month grace period after graduation provides transition time before repayment begins. This flexibility accommodates student financial needs. In-school deferment is particularly valuable for undergraduate and graduate students.
Competitive Rates & Terms
Citizens Bank rates of 6.24% - 14.18% fixed and 5.24% - 13.18% variable are competitive with banking competitors but not always best-in-class vs. fintech lenders. No origination fees mean your loan amount is fully deployed. Term options from 5-20 years provide flexibility. No prepayment penalties reward early payoff.
Best For
Citizens Bank is ideal for existing Citizens Bank customers wanting integrated student lending. Current students benefit from in-school deferment and grace period. Borrowers who value bank institution stability over absolute best rates will appreciate Citizens Bank. Those in markets with Citizens Bank branches benefit from local access. However, borrowers prioritizing lowest rates should compare fintech alternatives like SoFi or Earnest. Those needing robust borrower benefits should choose SoFi. And those seeking maximum flexibility should compare Earnest.
Ready to get started with Citizens Bank Student Loans?
Major bank offering student loans with established relationships, competitive rates, and in-school borrowing options.
Get Citizens BankPros & Cons
Pros
- Major bank institution with 2,600+ branches
- Competitive rates for undergraduate and graduate borrowing
- In-school deferment available for current students
- No origination fees
- Flexible co-signer release after 24 months
- Integrated banking services if you have Citizens Bank account
Cons
- Rates not always most competitive vs. fintech lenders
- Limited borrower benefit programs
- Traditional underwriting may be stricter
- Processing slower than digital natives
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I borrow while still in school?
Yes. Citizens Bank offers in-school deferment, allowing you to borrow while attending school. You can defer payments until 6 months after graduation, making it suitable for undergraduate and graduate students.
Do Citizens Bank customers get better rates?
Not explicitly. Citizens Bank doesn't advertise rate discounts for existing customers. However, having an established relationship may facilitate the application process. You can apply whether or not you're a customer.
What credit score do I need?
Citizens Bank generally requires a credit score of 670 or higher. Better rates are available with scores of 700+. You can check pre-qualification without affecting your credit.
How long does approval take?
Processing typically takes 5-7 business days. This is reasonable but slower than digital-native lenders like SoFi or Earnest. Online application can be completed quickly, but approval depends on verification and underwriting.
Can my co-signer be released?
Yes. After 24 consecutive on-time payments, co-signers can request release. This provides flexibility while giving Citizens Bank time to ensure the loan performs well.