Originated by Firstrust Bank, First Citizens Community Bank, or M.Y. Safra Bank, FSB
College Ave Student Loans
4.5
Established student loan provider offering competitive rates, flexible terms, and comprehensive loan products for all borrower types.
The Bottom Line
College Ave provides reliable, straightforward student lending with competitive rates and broad product availability. Solid choice for borrowers seeking established lender without frills.
At a Glance
| Loan Amount | $2,500 - $350,000 |
| Fixed Rate | 5.89% - 13.98% |
| Variable Rate | 4.99% - 12.85% |
| Term Options | 5, 7, 10, 15, 20 years |
| Origination Fee | None |
| In-School Deferment | Available |
| Co-Signer Release | After half the loan term + credit review |
| Approval | Broad credit acceptance |
| Fixed APR | 2.84% - 17.99% (with autopay, undergraduate fixed) |
| Variable APR | 3.89% - 17.99% (with autopay, undergraduate variable) |
| Loan Amounts | $2,500 - $350,000 |
| Term Lengths | 5, 7, 10, 15, 20 years |
| Origination Fee | None |
| Grace Period | 6 months (variable by product) |
| Co-Signer Release | Available |
| In-School Deferment | Available |
Established Lender with Broad Appeal
College Ave has been lending since 2009 with an established track record. They've originated hundreds of millions in student loans. This stability and experience matter for long-term borrowers. They offer products for various situations: undergraduate borrowing, graduate borrowing, refinancing existing loans, and parent PLUS borrowing. This breadth means they can serve borrowers at different life stages.
Flexible Underwriting & Credit Acceptance
College Ave accepts a broader range of credit profiles than some competitors. While best rates require 680+ credit score, they have products for fair credit borrowers. This inclusivity is valuable for younger borrowers building credit or those with minor credit challenges. Co-signers can strengthen applications for those with limited credit history.
In-School Borrowing & Deferment
College Ave offers in-school deferment, allowing current students to borrow while attending. This is valuable for undergraduate and graduate students needing funds immediately. You can choose interest-only payments or full deferment. The flexibility accommodates different financial situations.
Competitive Rates & Terms
College Ave rates of 5.89% - 13.98% fixed and 4.99% - 12.85% variable are competitive with industry averages. No origination fees means your entire loan amount is available. Term options from 5-20 years provide flexibility. Rate-matching guarantees ensure competitive pricing. However, SoFi occasionally offers lower rates for top-tier credit borrowers.
Best For
College Ave is excellent for current students needing in-school borrowing with deferment. Those with fair-to-good credit will find them more flexible than some competitors. Undergraduate and graduate borrowers benefit from specialized products. Borrowers prioritizing established lender stability will appreciate College Ave's track record. However, those seeking absolute lowest rates with excellent credit should compare SoFi. Those needing robust borrower benefits should choose SoFi. And those seeking maximum payment flexibility should consider Earnest.
Ready to get started with College Ave Student Loans?
Established student loan provider offering competitive rates, flexible terms, and comprehensive loan products for all borrower types.
Get Originated by Firstrust Bank, First Citizens Community Bank, or M.Y. Safra Bank, FSBPros & Cons
Pros
- Competitive fixed and variable rates
- Available for undergraduate and graduate borrowing
- Co-signer release available after half the original repayment term (slow vs. peers)
- Multiple term length options
- No origination fees
- Strong approval rates for qualified borrowers
Cons
- Rates require good credit (typically 680+ for best rates)
- No borrower benefit programs (unlike SoFi)
- Limited deferment options compared to federal loans
- Variable rates subject to market fluctuations
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I borrow while still in school with College Ave?
Yes. College Ave offers in-school deferment, allowing you to borrow and attend school simultaneously. During school, you can choose to make interest-only payments or defer payments entirely. Full details depend on your specific loan type.
What is College Ave's co-signer release policy?
College Ave requires that you have made on-time payments for at least half of the original repayment term, plus pass a credit and income review, before a co-signer can be released. On a 10-year loan, that means roughly 5 years of on-time payments. This is one of the slower co-signer release timelines in private student lending โ Sallie Mae allows release after 12 on-time payments by comparison.
What credit score do I need for College Ave loans?
College Ave accepts a broader range of credit profiles than some competitors. While best rates require 680+, they offer products for those with fair credit. You can get pre-qualified without affecting your credit score.
Are origination fees charged?
No. College Ave does not charge origination fees, application fees, or prepayment penalties. Your interest rate is your only cost.
Can I choose between fixed and variable rates?
Yes. College Ave offers both fixed rates (5.89% - 13.98%) and variable rates (4.99% - 12.85%). Fixed rates stay the same throughout the loan term; variable rates start lower but can increase based on market conditions.