KeyBank
KeyBank (formerly Laurel Road) Student Loan Refinancing
4.4
Student loan refinancing now offered through KeyBank after Laurel Road fully merged into KeyBank in March 2026. Existing Laurel Road borrowers continue under the same loan terms; new borrowers should apply through KeyBank Student Loan Refinancing.
The Bottom Line
Laurel Road, previously a standalone refinancing brand, fully merged into KeyBank in March 2026. The student loan refinancing product continues under the KeyBank brand with similar competitive rates. Existing Laurel Road customers retain their loan terms; new borrowers should apply via KeyBank. (Verified April 2026.)
At a Glance
| Loan Amount | $10,000 - $500,000 |
| Fixed Rate | 4.62% - 11.98% |
| Variable Rate | 3.99% - 10.98% |
| Origination Fee | None |
| Prepayment Penalty | None |
| Co-Signer Release | After 12 payments |
| Processing Time | 5-10 days |
| Credit Minimum | 700+ |
| Fixed APR | 4.62% - 11.98% |
| Variable APR | 3.99% - 10.98% |
| Loan Amounts | $10,000 - $500,000 |
| Term Lengths | 5, 7, 10, 15, 20 years |
| Origination Fee | None |
| Grace Period | Not applicable |
| Co-Signer Release | Available |
| In-School Deferment | Not Available |
Refinancing Specialization Excellence
Laurel Road specializes exclusively in student loan refinancing, giving them deep expertise in the segment. Unlike generalist lenders offering student loans as one product among many, Laurel Road's entire focus is optimization. Their rates of 4.62% - 11.98% fixed and 3.99% - 10.98% variable are among the absolute lowest available for refinancing. This specialization enables competitive pricing that broader lenders struggle to match.
Industry-Leading Rates
For borrowers with good-to-excellent credit, Laurel Road offers exceptional rates. Top-tier borrowers (750+ credit, stable income) can access rates in the 4-5% range. This represents 2-3% savings vs. original student loans (typically 6-8%). On a $100,000 loan, this translates to $200-300/month in savings. The low rates justify considering Laurel Road even if you have other good options.
Federal vs. Private Refinancing Considerations
Laurel Road refinances both federal and private loans. Important consideration: refinancing federal loans with a private lender means losing federal protections (income-driven repayment, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, deferment options, unemployment protection). Only refinance federal loans if you're confident you don't need these protections. For many borrowers, federal loans should stay federal—private refinancing is best for already-private loans.
Fast Approval & Funding
Laurel Road provides approval within 1-3 business days and funding within 5-10 days total. This speed is impressive and reflects their streamlined refinancing-only process. Fast funding means you start saving on interest immediately. The rapid process minimizes uncertainty and delays.
Best For
Laurel Road is absolutely the best choice for borrowers refinancing existing student loans with good-to-excellent credit (700+). Those prioritizing lowest possible rates should definitely get a Laurel Road quote. Private loan refinancing is perfect for Laurel Road. However, federal loan refinancing should be carefully considered (don't give up federal protections lightly). Borrowers with credit below 700 may not qualify. And those with loans below $10,000 don't meet minimum amounts.
Ready to get started with KeyBank (formerly Laurel Road) Student Loan Refinancing?
Student loan refinancing now offered through KeyBank after Laurel Road fully merged into KeyBank in March 2026. Existing Laurel Road borrowers continue under the same loan terms; new borrowers should apply through KeyBank Student Loan Refinancing.
Get KeyBankPros & Cons
Pros
- Highly competitive refinancing rates (among lowest available)
- Specialized refinancing expertise and knowledge
- Fast approval and funding (5-10 days typical)
- No origination, application, or prepayment fees
- Flexible co-signer release available
- Strong digital experience
Cons
- Refinancing only (not new student loans)
- Requires good credit (typically 700+)
- Rates available only for existing loan refinancing
- Limited product variety
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Laurel Road the best for refinancing?
Laurel Road specializes exclusively in student loan refinancing. Their rates of 4.62% - 11.98% fixed and 3.99% - 10.98% variable are among the lowest available. Their focus on refinancing expertise enables competitive pricing and streamlined processes.
Can I refinance federal or private loans?
Yes. Laurel Road refinances both federal and private student loans. Important note: refinancing federal loans with private lenders results in loss of federal protections (income-driven repayment, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, etc.). Only refinance if private terms are genuinely better.
How much can I save by refinancing?
Savings depend on your current rate and new rate. A borrower with $100,000 at 7% moving to 5% saves roughly $200/month or $24,000 over 10 years. Use a refinancing calculator to estimate your specific savings.
What credit score do I need?
Laurel Road generally requires a credit score of 700 or higher. Excellent rates are available with scores of 750+. You can check pre-qualification without affecting your credit.
How fast can I refinance?
Laurel Road typically funds within 5-10 business days of approval. The streamlined process and focus on refinancing enables speed. Fast funding allows you to start saving on interest quickly.