Student loan vs Student line of credit

In summary, the person is currently living with their mother after being kicked out by their father who refused to help with the student loan. The person is concerned about their tuition being overdue and is considering taking a student line of credit instead of a student loan. They are seeking advice and insight on the pros and cons of each option. They are also advised to speak with their financial aid office for assistance.
  • #1
xortan
78
1
Hey I am in a really sticky situation. Here is the low-down. I was living with my dad (parents are divorced) and I asked him 2 months ago to do the parent part of the student loan and the other day when I asked him he went off the deep end and actually kicked me out of the house :S now I am at my moms. I have the school calling me and saying that they are going to withdraw me by wednesday cause my tuition is overdue and my loan still isn't processing.

I am wondering what the pros and cons of taking a student line of credit are over a student loan?

Also has anyone here taken a student line of credit before and call tell me a little bit about it. I looked on my banks website and I get the idea of it but was wondering what other people thought of it.

If anyone can give me some insight into this it would be much appreicated
 
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  • #2
xortan said:
Hey I am in a really sticky situation. Here is the low-down. I was living with my dad (parents are divorced) and I asked him 2 months ago to do the parent part of the student loan and the other day when I asked him he went off the deep end and actually kicked me out of the house :S now I am at my moms. I have the school calling me and saying that they are going to withdraw me by wednesday cause my tuition is overdue and my loan still isn't processing.

I am wondering what the pros and cons of taking a student line of credit are over a student loan?

Also has anyone here taken a student line of credit before and call tell me a little bit about it. I looked on my banks website and I get the idea of it but was wondering what other people thought of it.

If anyone can give me some insight into this it would be much appreicated

Have you spoken to your financial aid office? I would see what they recommend ASAP. They are the experts and also the only ones who may possibly be able to help you out if there is any help to be had. Good luck.
 
  • #3


I am not an expert in financial matters, but I can provide some general information about the differences between a student loan and a student line of credit.

A student loan is a type of loan specifically designed for students to help cover the cost of tuition, books, and other educational expenses. This type of loan usually has a fixed interest rate and a set repayment schedule. The loan is typically disbursed directly to the school and the student is responsible for paying back the loan after graduation. The amount of the loan is usually determined by the student's financial need and can be subsidized or unsubsidized.

On the other hand, a student line of credit is a revolving credit account that can be used for educational expenses, but can also be used for other purposes. This type of credit is similar to a credit card, where the borrower can access funds up to a certain limit and only pay interest on the amount borrowed. The interest rate for a student line of credit is usually variable and can fluctuate based on market conditions.

The main advantage of a student line of credit is flexibility. Unlike a student loan, the borrower can access funds as needed and only pay interest on the amount used. This can be beneficial for students who are unsure of their exact expenses or who may need additional funds for unexpected costs.

However, a student line of credit also has some drawbacks. The interest rate is usually higher than that of a student loan and can increase over time. Additionally, there is no set repayment schedule, so the borrower may be tempted to only make minimum payments, resulting in a longer repayment period and more interest paid.

Ultimately, the decision between a student loan and a student line of credit will depend on your individual financial situation and needs. It is important to carefully consider the terms and interest rates of each option and choose the one that will be most beneficial for you in the long run.

In terms of personal experiences with a student line of credit, it would be best to speak with someone who has actually taken one out and can provide first-hand insight. You can also research online and read reviews from others who have taken out a student line of credit from your specific bank. It may also be helpful to speak with a financial advisor for personalized advice.
 

What is the difference between a student loan and a student line of credit?

A student loan is a type of financial aid that is borrowed from a government or private lender to cover the cost of education. It must be repaid with interest after the student graduates. On the other hand, a student line of credit is a loan provided by a bank or financial institution that allows students to borrow money up to a certain limit to cover education expenses. It also accrues interest, but payments are not required until after graduation.

Which one is a better option for financing education?

It depends on individual circumstances. Student loans often have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options, making them a more affordable option for many students. However, a student line of credit may be a better choice for those who need to borrow a larger amount of money or have a good credit score and can secure a lower interest rate.

Do student loans and student lines of credit affect credit scores differently?

Yes, they do. Student loans are considered installment loans, which means they have a fixed term and monthly payments. As long as the payments are made on time, they can have a positive impact on credit scores. On the other hand, student lines of credit are considered revolving credit, which means they have a limit that can be borrowed and paid back repeatedly. If the balance is kept low and payments are made on time, they can also have a positive impact on credit scores.

Are there any eligibility requirements for student loans and student lines of credit?

Yes, both options have eligibility requirements. Student loans often require the completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and have income and credit requirements. Student lines of credit also have credit score and income requirements, and may require a co-signer if the student does not have a credit history or a stable source of income.

Can I have both a student loan and a student line of credit?

Yes, it is possible to have both a student loan and a student line of credit to finance education expenses. However, it is important to carefully consider the terms and conditions of each option and only borrow what is necessary to avoid accumulating excessive debt.

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