Earnest logo

Earnest – Personal Loan

4.5 / 5 (2480 reviews)

Earnest offers low-rate private student loans and student loan refinancing with flexible terms and a 9-month grace period after graduation.

Amount $1,000 USD – $250,000 USD
APR from 4.39%
Term 60 – 180 months
Approval 1-3 business days
Apply Now ad

Applying does not obligate you to accept a loan offer.

Earnest Student Loan – Review 2026

Earnest is a leading US student lender owned by Navient. It specializes in private student loans for undergraduate, graduate, and professional students, and in student loan refinancing for graduates.

Earnest Loan Features

Loans range from $1,000 up to 100% of certified school cost (capped at $250,000 for some refinancing). Variable APRs start at 4.39% and fixed at 4.49%. There is a 9-month grace period after graduation and no fees of any kind.

✓ Pros

  • Long grace period after school
  • No fees
  • Cosigner release
  • Variable + fixed rates

✗ Cons

  • Not available in all states
  • No physical branches
  • Refi minimum $5,000

Loan Example

Example: $25,000 student loan refi for 10 years at 6.99% APR = monthly payment of $290.27, total payable $34,832.40.

Eligibility Requirements

  • ✓ Age 18+ years
  • ✓ US citizen or permanent resident
  • ✓ Enrolled at least half-time at eligible school
  • ✓ Credit score 650+ or eligible cosigner
  • ✓ Verifiable income (refi)

Loan Features

  • Student loans + refinancing
  • 9-month grace period
  • No fees
  • Cosigner release option
  • Skip-a-payment once a year

Frequently Asked Questions

1-3 business days after submitting your application.

The minimum amount at Earnest is $1,000 USD.