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4.50%–15.70% APR· #4
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Sallie Mae

SLM Corporation

Sallie Mae

America's largest private student loan lender

Sallie Mae's size and track record make it the reliable, familiar choice for families navigating private loans for the first time. Their multi-year approval is particularly valuable — it means your student doesn't have to reapply and requalify for a new loan every fall.

✓ Pros

  • America's most established private student loan brand
  • Multi-year approval option reduces annual reapplication hassle
  • Quarterly FICO score access for all borrowers

✕ Cons

  • No unemployment protection or payment pause options
  • Cosigner release requires 12 on-time payments (good) but credit check

Scores

Overall
8.7
Safety
8.9
Value
8.7
Ease
8.8
Quality
8.8

Specifications

apr Range4.50%–15.70%
loan Amounts$1,000–full COA
repayment Terms10–15 years
cosigner ReleaseAfter 12 months
multi Year Approvaltrue