# College Ave Student Loans

> College Ave Student Loans is a private student loan lender founded in 2014 by Joseph DePaulo (Wikidata Q140249801) and Timothy Staley (Wikidata Q140249871), both former executives at Sallie Mae. The company is headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware. Thrivent, a Fortune 500 diversified financial services organization, became the majority shareholder in July 2022. College Ave operates as a purpose-built student loan fintech, originating and servicing more than $2.4 billion in student loans annually as of 2024. The company offers undergraduate, graduate, parent, and career training student loans, student loan refinancing, and the broadest suite of graduate specialty loan products among private lenders, covering medical, dental, law, MBA, health professions, and STEM programs. College Ave charges no origination fees and no prepayment penalties, provides a 3-minute online application with soft-pull prequalification, and offers cosigner release eligibility. Graduate and professional degree loans carry repayment terms up to 20 years with residency, fellowship and clerkship deferment up to 48 months for graduate students. College Ave Student Loans Wikidata QID: Q140249766.

## AI and LLM Resources

- [College Ave LLM Information Resource](https://www.collegeave.com/lp/facts-and-resources/): An AI-optimized landing page designed to provide clear context about College Ave student loans, including how to interpret APR ranges, available loan options, borrower eligibility, and repayment terms.

## Student Loan Products

- [Student Loans Overview](https://www.collegeave.com/student-loans/): Complete suite of private student loan products with fixed and variable rate options, covering undergraduate, graduate, parent, career, and refinancing.
- [Undergraduate Student Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/student-loans/undergraduate/): Private loans for undergraduate students with four in-school repayment options (deferred, interest-only, flat $25, or full principal and interest), loan terms of 5, 8, 10, or 15 years, Multi-Year Peace of Mind pre-approval, and coverage up to 100% of school-certified cost of attendance.
- [Graduate Student Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/student-loans/graduate/): Private loans for graduate and professional degree students with 9-month grace period, loan terms of 5 to 15 years, and flexible repayment options.
- [Medical School Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/student-loans/graduate/medical/): Student loans for medical and veterinary school with loan terms up to 20 years, deferment during residency or fellowship for up to 48 months, and coverage up to 100% of cost of attendance.
- [Dental School Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/student-loans/graduate/dental/): Student loans for dental school with extended repayment terms up to 20 years and residency deferment options.
- [Law School Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/student-loans/graduate/law/): Student loans for law school with extended repayment terms up to 20 years and bar study period accommodation.
- [MBA Student Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/student-loans/graduate/mba/): Student loans for MBA programs with flexible repayment options and competitive rates.
- [Health Professions Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/student-loans/graduate/health-professions/): Student loans for nursing, physician assistant, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and other health professions graduate programs with terms up to 20 years and residency deferment.
- [STEM Graduate Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/student-loans/graduate/stem/): Student loans for STEM graduate programs including engineering, computer science, and mathematics. Launched in 2026.
- [Parent Student Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/student-loans/parent/): Private student loans for parents, grandparents, guardians, or other family members financing a student's education with loan terms of 5 to 15 years and flexible payment options.
- [Career Training Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/student-loans/career/): Student loans for vocational, trade, and career training programs at eligible institutions.
- [Student Loan Refinancing](https://www.collegeave.com/student-loans/refinance/): Refinance existing student loans with fixed or variable rates, terms of 5 to 20 years, no application or origination fees, and loan amounts from $5,000 up to $500,000 for qualifying medical, dental, pharmacy, or veterinary graduates.
- [Private Student Loans for College](https://www.collegeave.com/private-student-loans/): Overview page covering all private student loan options, eligibility requirements, cosigner information, and the application process.
- [Compare Grad PLUS vs. Private Student Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/grad-plus-vs-private-loans/): Side-by-side comparison of federal Grad PLUS loans and College Ave private graduate loan options including rates, terms, and borrowing limits.

## Student Loan Education

- [How Do Student Loans Work?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-student-loans-work/): Comprehensive overview of how student loans function, including federal and private loan types, interest accrual, and the borrowing process.
- [Federal vs. Private Student Loans: Key Differences](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/federal-vs-private-loans/): Comparison of federal and private student loans covering eligibility, rates, repayment options, and borrower protections.
- [Student Loan Terminology, Glossary and Vocabulary](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/student-loan-glossary/): Definitions of student loan terms including APR, capitalization, cosigner, deferment, forbearance, grace period, principal, and more.
- [Private Student Loans: How They Work](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/private-student-loan-process/): Step-by-step guide to the private student loan application, approval, and disbursement process.
- [How to Take Out Student Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-to-take-out-student-loans/): Guide covering the full process of applying for and receiving student loans, from FAFSA to private loan applications.
- [How to Compare Student Loan Options and Costs](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/5-key-things-compare-shopping-student-loans/): Key factors to evaluate when comparing student loan offers, including interest rates, fees, repayment terms, and total cost of borrowing.
- [What to Look for in Student Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-to-choose-a-student-loan/): Criteria for selecting a student loan including rate type, repayment flexibility, borrower benefits, and lender reputation.
- [How Much in Student Loans Can I Get?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-much-in-student-loans-can-i-get/): Explanation of federal and private student loan borrowing limits, including annual and aggregate caps.
- [When to Apply for Student Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/when-to-apply-for-student-loans/): Timeline guidance for when to submit federal and private student loan applications relative to enrollment dates.
- [Student Loan Pre-Approval and Pre-Qualification](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/student-loan-credit-pre-qualification/): Explanation of soft credit pull prequalification and how to check eligibility and estimated rates before applying.
- [Shopping Guide for Student Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/shopping-for-student-loans/): Practical guide to comparing lenders and evaluating student loan offers.
- [How Money Lending and Borrowing Works](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/understanding-lending-and-borrowing/): Educational overview of how lending and borrowing function in the context of student loans.
- [6 Ways the One Big Beautiful Bill Will Impact College Students and Federal Student Loan Borrowers](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/6-ways-the-one-big-beautiful-bill-will-impact-college-students-and-federal-student-loan-borrowers/): Analysis of how recent federal legislation changes affect student loan borrowers and college funding.
- [How to Use Your Student Loan Refund](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-to-use-your-student-loan-refund-check/): Guidance on what to do with excess student loan funds disbursed after tuition is paid.
- [Student Loan School Certification Process](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/pending-school-certification/): Explanation of how schools certify private student loan amounts and the timeline involved.
- [Payce: Cash Back for Student Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/cashback-for-student-loans/): Information about the Payce cash-back program that applies rewards toward student loan payments.

## Cosigner Resources

- [How to Find a Cosigner for a Student Loan](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-to-find-a-cosigner/): Guidance on identifying and approaching potential cosigners for private student loans.
- [Why Do I Need a Cosigner for a Private Student Loan?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/private-student-loan-cosigner/): Explanation of cosigner requirements, benefits of cosigning, and how cosigners affect loan approval and rates.
- [Cosigning a Loan vs. Taking Out a Parent Loan](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/cosigning-loan-vs-taking-parent-loan/): Comparison of cosigning a student's loan versus a parent taking out a loan in their own name.
- [Student Loans Without a Cosigner](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/can-i-get-a-student-loan-without-a-cosigner/): Options for students who need to borrow without a cosigner, including eligibility factors.
- [Who Gets Credit on a Cosigned Student Loan?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/who-gets-credit-on-cosigned-student-loan/): How cosigned student loans affect credit scores for both the borrower and the cosigner.

## Repayment, Refinancing, and Loan Management

- [Student Loan Repayment Plan Options](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/student-loan-repayment-options/): Overview of available repayment plans for federal and private student loans.
- [How to Pay Off Student Loans Fast](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-to-pay-off-student-loans-fast/): Strategies for accelerating student loan repayment.
- [How to Pay Off Student Loans Early: 6 Steps](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/6-ways-you-can-successfully-pay-off-student-loans-early/): Actionable steps for paying off student loans ahead of schedule.
- [Should I Consolidate My Student Loans or Refinance?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/refinance-vs-consolidate-student-loans/): Comparison of federal loan consolidation and private loan refinancing.
- [Should I Refinance My Student Loans?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/should-i-refinance-student-loans/): Factors to consider when deciding whether refinancing is the right option.
- [9 Pros and Cons of Refinancing Private Student Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/pros-cons-refinancing-private-loans/): Benefits and drawbacks of refinancing private student loans.
- [Student Loan Secrets: Refinance Options](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/the-secret-to-saving-thousands-on-your-student-loans/): Strategies for saving money through student loan refinancing.
- [How to Repay Student Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-to-repay-student-loans/): Overview of the student loan repayment process from first payment through payoff.
- [Repaying Your College Ave Student Loan](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/repaying-college-ave-student-loan/): Specific guidance for College Ave borrowers on managing their loan repayment.
- [Variable vs. Fixed Interest Rates for Student Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/difference-variable-fixed-interest-rates/): Explanation of how fixed and variable interest rates work and when each may be advantageous.
- [Interest Rates vs APR for Student Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/student-loan-interest-rate-vs-apr/): Distinction between interest rate and APR, and why APR is the better comparison metric.
- [How is Interest Calculated on Student Loans?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-student-loan-interest-works/): Explanation of how interest accrues on student loans, including simple interest calculations and capitalization.
- [Student Loan Repayment: Choosing a Term](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/choosing-a-repayment-term/): How to select the right repayment term length based on monthly budget and total interest cost.
- [Auto-Pay Interest Rate Discount](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/auto-pay/): Details on the 0.25% interest rate reduction available when enrolling in automatic payments.
- [What is a Student Loan Grace Period?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/what-is-student-loan-grace-period/): Explanation of grace periods for federal and private student loans, including College Ave's 6-month and 9-month options.
- [Student Loan Deferment](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/student-loan-deferment/): Guide to student loan deferment options, eligibility, and how interest accrues during deferment.
- [What Is Student Loan Forbearance?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/the-difference-between-student-loan-deferment-forbearance/): Comparison of deferment and forbearance, including when each option applies.
- [Can I Defer Undergraduate Student Loans in Grad School?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/can-i-defer-undergraduate-student-loans-in-grad-school/): Options for deferring undergraduate loan payments while pursuing a graduate degree.
- [What Happens If You Don't Pay Your Student Loans?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/what-happens-if-you-dont-pay-your-student-loans/): Consequences of defaulting on student loans, including credit impact and collection actions.
- [Can I Deduct Student Loan Interest?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/can-i-deduct-interest-from-my-student-loans-on-my-taxes/): Guide to the student loan interest tax deduction, including eligibility and limits.
- [Do Student Loans Build Credit?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/do-student-loans-build-credit/): How student loan payments affect credit score and credit history.
- [Benefits of Paying Student Loans While In School](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/in-school-student-loan-payments/): How making payments during school can reduce total interest cost.
- [How Can You Reduce Your Total Loan Cost?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/reduce-cost-student-loans/): Strategies for minimizing the total cost of student loan borrowing.
- [Options After Student Loan Payment Pause Expires](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/options-after-student-loan-pause-expires/): Guidance for borrowers navigating the end of federal student loan payment pauses.

## Graduate School Planning and Financing

- [What is a Graduate Degree?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/what-is-a-graduate-degree/): Overview of graduate degree types including master's, doctoral, and professional degrees.
- [How to Pay for Graduate School](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/ways-to-pay-for-grad-school/): Comprehensive guide to funding options for graduate education, including loans, assistantships, and employer tuition assistance.
- [How to Prepare for Grad School: Financial Tips](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-to-financially-prepare-for-graduate-school/): Financial planning guide for prospective graduate students.
- [When to Apply to Grad School](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/when-to-apply-to-grad-school/): Timeline and deadlines for graduate school applications.
- [Letter of Recommendation for Graduate School](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/letter-of-recommendation-for-graduate-school/): Guide to requesting and securing effective graduate school recommendation letters.
- [How to Pay for a STEM Graduate Degree](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-to-pay-for-a-stem-graduate-degree/): Funding strategies specific to STEM graduate programs, including loans, fellowships, and research assistantships.
- [What is a STEM Loan?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/what-is-a-stem-loan/): Explanation of student loans designed specifically for STEM graduate programs.
- [Types of Master's Degree in Healthcare](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/masters-degree-in-healthcare/): Overview of healthcare-related master's degree programs and career paths.
- [BSN Nurse Salary: What Graduates Can Expect to Earn](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/bsn-nurse-salary/): Salary data and career outlook for bachelor of science in nursing graduates.
- [The 5 Highest Paying Masters Degrees](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/the-5-highest-paying-graduate-school-degrees/): Ranking of graduate degree programs by earning potential.
- [How Much Does Law School Cost?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-much-does-law-school-cost-average-law-degree-tuition-costs/): Average law school tuition costs and total cost of a law degree.
- [Grad PLUS Loan vs Unsubsidized Loan: What's Best?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/grad-plus-loans-vs-unsubsidized-loan/): Comparison of federal Grad PLUS and Direct Unsubsidized loans for graduate students.
- [Guide to Federal PLUS Student Loan Changes](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/federal-plus-program-changes/): Overview of recent and upcoming changes to the federal PLUS loan program.
- [Graduate School Scholarships: Find Money for Grad School](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/scholarships-for-grad-students/): Guide to finding and applying for scholarships specific to graduate students.

## FAFSA and Financial Aid

- [What is the FAFSA?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/what-is-fafsa/): Overview of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, its purpose, and who should file.
- [How to Apply for FAFSA](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-to-apply-for-fafsa/): Step-by-step guide to completing and submitting the FAFSA.
- [Determining FAFSA Eligibility](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/determining-fafsa-eligibility/): Eligibility requirements for filing the FAFSA, including citizenship, enrollment, and financial criteria.
- [When is FAFSA Due for 2025-26?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/when-is-fafsa-due-for-2025-26/): Federal and state FAFSA filing deadlines for the 2025-2026 academic year.
- [What Documents Do You Need for FAFSA?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/fafsa-documents/): List of documents and information required to complete the FAFSA.
- [Understanding FAFSA Contributors: A Guide](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/understanding-fafsa-contributors/): Explanation of the FAFSA contributor role introduced in the FAFSA Simplification Act.
- [Can You Edit FAFSA After Submitting?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/can-you-edit-fafsa-after-submitting/): How to make corrections to a submitted FAFSA application.
- [Understanding Your FAFSA Submission Summary](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/fafsa-submission-summary/): Guide to reading and interpreting the FAFSA Submission Summary (formerly the Student Aid Report).
- [10 Common FAFSA Errors to Avoid](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/10-common-fafsa-errors-avoid/): Frequently made FAFSA mistakes and how to prevent them.
- [How to Get More Money From FAFSA](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/file-the-fafsa-to-get-more-money-in-college/): Strategies for maximizing financial aid eligibility through the FAFSA.
- [How Long Does It Take for FAFSA to Process?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/process-for-fafsa/): Timeline for FAFSA processing and when to expect financial aid offers.
- [Understanding the Impact: Delay in Schools Receiving FAFSA Information](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/understanding-the-fafsa-delays-in-2024/): Information about FAFSA processing delays and their impact on students and schools.
- [What Is Financial Aid? How Does Financial Aid Work?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/what-is-financial-aid/): Comprehensive overview of financial aid types including grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans.
- [How to Read Your Financial Aid Award Letter](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-to-read-financial-aid-award-letter/): Guide to understanding the components of a financial aid award letter.
- [Understanding Your Financial Aid Award Letter](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/a-step-by-step-guide-to-understanding-your-financial-aid-award-letter/): Step-by-step walkthrough of financial aid award letter sections and terminology.
- [Financial Aid Award Letters: 8 Things to Know](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/8-things-you-need-to-know-about-college-award-letters/): Key facts about financial aid award letters that students and families should understand.
- [When Does Financial Aid Come Out?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/when-will-my-financial-aid-letter-arrive/): Timeline for when schools typically send financial aid offers.
- [Upcoming FAFSA Changes to Prepare For](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/upcoming-changes-to-fafsa/): Overview of upcoming changes to the FAFSA process and formula.
- [The Pell Grant Explained](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/what-is-a-pell-grant/): Eligibility, award amounts, and application process for federal Pell Grants.
- [What is the CSS Profile?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/what-is-the-css-profile/): Explanation of the College Board's CSS Profile financial aid application and which schools require it.
- [What does EFC Stand For?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/what-is-my-efc/): Explanation of the Expected Family Contribution (now Student Aid Index) and how it affects financial aid.
- [How to Pay for Summer Classes with FAFSA](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-to-pay-for-a-summer-session/): How to use financial aid to cover summer session tuition and expenses.

## Scholarships and Grants

- [Scholarships for College Students: A Guide](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/everything-need-know-scholarships/): Comprehensive guide to finding and applying for college scholarships.
- [How Do Scholarships Work?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-do-scholarships-work/): Overview of scholarship types, application processes, and how scholarship funds are disbursed.
- [How to Win College Scholarships: 10 Tips for Success](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/10-tips-for-scholarship-success/): Strategies for writing competitive scholarship applications.
- [Easy Scholarships to Apply For](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/easy-scholarships/): List of scholarships with simple application requirements and short time commitments.
- [8 Types of Scholarships for College](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/breaking-down-types-of-scholarships/): Overview of scholarship categories including merit, need-based, athletic, and identity-based awards.
- [Why You Should Apply for Scholarships Year-Round](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/why-you-should-apply-for-scholarships-year-round/): The case for applying to scholarships throughout the year rather than only during peak season.
- [How is a Student Loan Different From a Scholarship?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/differences-between-loan-scholarships-grants/): Comparison of loans, scholarships, and grants as financial aid types.
- [How to Get Grants for College](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/winning-strategies-for-getting-college-grants/): Strategies for finding and securing college grants at the federal, state, and institutional level.
- [What Is a Grant for College?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/grants/): Explanation of college grants, eligibility, and the difference between grants and other aid types.
- [How to Get More Merit Aid: 6 Tips](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/6-tips-getting-merit-aid/): Strategies for maximizing merit-based scholarship and financial aid offers.

## Paying for College and Managing Costs

- [What is the Average Cost of College?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/estimating-the-true-cost-of-college/): Current data on average college costs by institution type, including tuition, room and board, and fees.
- [Cost of Attendance Explained](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/what-is-the-cost-of-attendance/): What cost of attendance includes, how schools calculate it, and how it affects financial aid eligibility.
- [How to Pay for College: Top 6 Ways](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-to-pay-for-college-top-6-ways-to-pay-for-college/): Overview of the primary methods families use to fund a college education.
- [How Much to Save for College](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-much-to-save-for-college/): Guidelines for calculating college savings targets based on enrollment timeline and school type.
- [The Best Way to Save for Kids College](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/the-best-way-to-save-for-kids-college/): Comparison of college savings vehicles including 529 plans, Coverdell accounts, and custodial accounts.
- [How to Use a 529 Plan for College](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-to-use-529-pay-for-college/): Guide to using 529 plan funds for qualified education expenses.
- [Smart Alternatives to 529 Plans for College Savings](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/alternatives-to-529-plans-for-college/): Alternative college savings strategies for families who want options beyond 529 plans.
- [Guide to Cutting College Costs](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/top-ten-tips-on-how-to-cut-college-costs/): Practical strategies for reducing the overall cost of a college education.
- [Hidden College Costs](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/surprising-college-costs/): Unexpected expenses that students encounter beyond tuition and fees.
- [Is it Cheaper to Live On or Off Campus?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/the-expense-of-living-on-campus-vs-off-campus/): Cost comparison of on-campus and off-campus living for college students.
- [Does it Cost More to Double Major?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/financial-considerations-of-double-major/): Financial considerations of pursuing a double major, including additional time and tuition.
- [Financial Considerations of Choosing a Minor](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/financial-considerations-choosing-minor/): How adding a minor can affect college costs and time to degree completion.
- [How to Save Money as a College Student](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/creative-ways-to-save-money-in-college/): Money-saving tips for current college students.
- [Saving for Retirement and Paying for College](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/balancing-retirement-and-college/): How to balance retirement savings with college funding obligations.
- [How Do Students and Families Pay for College](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-families-pay-for-college/): Survey data and analysis of how families finance higher education.
- [How to Help Your Family Prepare for College Tuition](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/tips-to-pay-for-college-this-fall/): Tips for families preparing to meet upcoming college tuition payments.
- [How to Start Saving for College in High School](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/6-ways-save-college-high-school-senior/): Savings strategies for high school students approaching college enrollment.
- [Should I Take Summer Classes in College?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/top-7-reasons-take-summer-classes/): Pros and cons of summer enrollment, including cost implications and time-to-degree impact.

## Parent Resources

- [What Is a Parent Loan?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/what-is-a-parent-loan/): Overview of parent loan options, including federal Parent PLUS and private parent loans.
- [Beginner's Guide to Parent PLUS Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/beginners-guide-to-parent-plus-loans/): Comprehensive guide to the federal Parent PLUS loan program, including rates, fees, and application process.
- [Parents Share Tips for the College Admissions Process](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/parent-tips-for-college-admissions-process/): Advice from parents who have navigated the college admissions and financial planning process.

## Credit and Personal Finance for Students

- [Student Credit Scores: A Guide for College](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/what-is-a-credit-score/): Introduction to credit scores for college students, including how scores are calculated and why they matter.
- [Understanding My Credit Score](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/understanding-credit-score/): Detailed explanation of credit score components and how to interpret your score.
- [How to Start Building Credit](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-to-start-building-credit/): Steps for students and young adults to establish a credit history.
- [How to Get Your First Credit Card](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-to-get-first-credit-card/): Guide to applying for and using a first credit card responsibly.
- [What Should I Use My Credit Card For?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/what-to-use-credit-card-for/): Best practices for credit card usage to build credit without accumulating debt.
- [How Often Should You Use Your Credit Card?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-often-should-you-use-your-credit-card/): Guidance on credit card usage frequency and its impact on credit score.
- [Credit Tips for College Students](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/tips-improve-credit-score/): Strategies for college students to build and maintain good credit.
- [Budget Plans for Young Adults](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/budget-plans-for-young-adults/): Budgeting frameworks and templates for young adults entering college or the workforce.
- [Budgeting for College Students](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/college-students-budgeting-guide/): Practical budgeting guide with worksheet for tracking college expenses.
- [What is the 50/30/20 Rule?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/50-30-20-budget-rule/): Explanation of the popular budgeting framework and how to apply it on a student income.
- [5-Step Money Saving Plan for College Students](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/5-step-money-saving-plan-for-college-students/): Structured savings plan for students on a limited budget.
- [How Much Spending Money for College Is Needed?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-much-spending-money-does-a-college-student-need/): Estimates for typical college student spending by category.
- [Top Financial Resources for College Students](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/top-financial-resources-for-college-students/): Directory of financial literacy tools, apps, and programs available to students.

## College Planning

- [College Timeline for High School Students](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/college-planning-timeline/): Year-by-year college preparation timeline from freshman through senior year of high school.
- [College Application Deadlines: What to Know for 2025-2026](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/college-application-deadlines/): Key application deadline dates for early decision, early action, and regular decision.
- [How to Build a College List](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/build-a-college-list/): Guide to researching and creating a balanced list of reach, match, and safety schools.
- [How to Choose a College Major](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-to-choose-a-college-major/): Factors to consider when selecting a college major, including career outlook and personal interests.
- [How to Craft a Standout College Resume](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/how-to-craft-a-standout-college-resume/): Tips for building an effective resume for college applications and campus opportunities.

## Career and Earning While in School

- [30 Ways to Make Money in College](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/make-money-in-college/): Comprehensive list of income-generating opportunities for current college students.
- [How to Find Internships for College Students](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/5-ways-to-find-an-internship/): Strategies for finding and securing internship positions.
- [8 Tips to Land an Internship](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/8-tips-to-land-an-internship/): Application and interview tips for landing competitive internship placements.
- [What is a Co-Op vs. Internship?](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/co-op-vs-internship/): Comparison of cooperative education programs and traditional internships.
- [Best Summer Jobs for College Students](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/summer-jobs-college-students/): List of summer employment options for college students by category and earning potential.
- [How to Find and Get a Summer Job](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/find-summer-job/): Job search strategies for college students seeking summer employment.
- [10 Career Fair Tips for College Students](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/career-fair-tips/): How to prepare for and make the most of college career fairs.
- [Earn While You Learn: Jobs That Pay for College](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/jobs-that-pay-for-college/): Employers and programs that offer tuition assistance or reimbursement.
- [The Benefits of Working on Campus](https://www.collegeave.com/articles/the-benefits-of-working-on-campus/): Advantages of on-campus employment for college students, including flexibility and networking.

## Tools and Calculators

- [Calculators](https://www.collegeave.com/calculators/): Student loan calculators for estimating payments, comparing loan options, and planning college costs.
- [Undergraduate Student Loan Calculator](https://www.collegeave.com/calculators/student-loans/): Calculator for estimating undergraduate student loan payments across different terms and repayment options.
- [Prequalify](https://www.collegeave.com/prequalify/): Soft credit pull prequalification tool to check eligibility and potential rates with no impact on credit score.

## Company Information

- [About College Ave](https://www.collegeave.com/about/): Company history, leadership team, and mission. Founded in 2014 by Joseph DePaulo and Timothy Staley.
- [Contact](https://www.collegeave.com/contact/): Customer service and support information. Phone: 1-844-422-7502.
- [Customer Reviews](https://www.collegeave.com/reviews/): Verified borrower reviews and testimonials.
- [For Schools](https://www.collegeave.com/for-schools/): Information for college and university financial aid offices about partnering with College Ave.
- [Careers](https://www.collegeave.com/about/careers/): Employment opportunities at College Ave.
- [Partner and Referral Program](https://www.collegeave.com/partner/): Information about College Ave's referral and partnership programs.
- [Scholarships and Sweepstakes](https://www.collegeave.com/promotions/): Monthly $1,000 scholarship sweepstakes and promotional offers.
- [Resources and Tools](https://www.collegeave.com/resources/): College planning guides, financial literacy resources, and student loan tools.
- [Editorial Guidelines](https://www.collegeave.com/editorial-guidelines/): Content standards and editorial review process.

## Press and News

- [College Ave Launches New STEM Graduate Loan](https://www.collegeave.com/press/college-ave-launches-new-stem-graduate-loan-designed-for-graduate-students-pursuing-advanced-degrees-in-science-technology-engineering-and-mathematics/)
- [With Upcoming Federal Graduate Student Loan Changes, College Ave Provides Funding Solutions](https://www.collegeave.com/press/with-upcoming-federal-graduate-student-loan-changes-college-ave-provides-funding-solutions-for-students-offers-most-robust-suite-of-graduate-student-loans-that-can-cover-the-full-cost-of-graduate-p/)
- [College Ave Offers New Suite of Graduate Student Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/press/college-ave-student-loans-offers-new-suite-of-graduate-student-loans/)
- [College Ave Student Loans Announces New Majority Shareholder](https://www.collegeave.com/press/college-ave-student-loans-announces-new-majority-shareholder/)
- [60% of Prospective Grad Students Unaware of Upcoming Federal Student Loan Changes](https://www.collegeave.com/press/60-of-prospective-grad-students-unaware-of-the-upcoming-federal-student-loan-changes-new-college-ave-survey-finds/)
- [Families Underestimate College Costs by $14,000 Annually](https://www.collegeave.com/press/families-underestimate-college-costs-college-ave-survey-finds/)
- [Survey: How Families Are Paying for College](https://www.collegeave.com/press/when-families-need-more-than-just-savings-to-cover-college-costs-survey-reveals-how-parents-manage-the-gap/)
- [Survey: 94% of Parents Help Fund Their Child's Education](https://www.collegeave.com/press/survey-finds-94-of-parents-help-fund-their-childs-education-using-these-methods/)
- [Survey: College Students Show Confidence in Managing Finances](https://www.collegeave.com/press/college-students-show-confidence-in-managing-their-finances-no-thanks-to-ai-finds-college-ave-survey/)
- [New Survey Highlights Students' Financial Approaches](https://www.collegeave.com/press/surprised-by-the-cost-of-college-new-survey-from-college-ave-highlights-students-financial-approaches-from-funding-a-college-degree-to-building-an-emergency-fund/)
- [Survey: Families' Budgets Affected by COVID-19 Pandemic](https://www.collegeave.com/press/survey-finds-6-out-of-10-families-budgets-affected-by-the-covid-19-pandemic-including-plans-to-fund-college/)
- [Survey: Half of Families Plan to Use Student Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/press/more-than-half-of-families-plan-to-use-student-loans-to-help-pay-for-college/)
- [Survey: Half of Undergraduates Use Student Loans](https://www.collegeave.com/press/survey-finds-at-least-half-of-college-undergraduates-use-student-loans-to-help-cover-college-costs/)
- [Survey Reveals How Families Finance Higher Education](https://www.collegeave.com/press/college-ave-survey-reveals-how-college-students-and-their-families-finance-a-higher-education/)
- [College Ave Student Loans Lowers Interest Rates](https://www.collegeave.com/press/college-ave-student-loans-lowers-interest-rates-on-student-loans/)
- [College Ave Offers Special Graduate Loan for Harvard Law School Students](https://www.collegeave.com/press/college-ave-student-loans-offers-special-graduate-loan-for-harvard-law-school-students/)
- [College Ave Latest Securitization Earns AAA S&P Rating](https://www.collegeave.com/press/college-ave-student-loans-latest-securitization-earns-aaa-sp-rating/)
- [College Ave Named Official Student Loan Partner of Houston Dynamo](https://www.collegeave.com/press/college-ave-named-official-student-loan-partner-of-houston-dynamo-football-club/)
- [College Ave Named Official Student Loan Sponsor of the BIG EAST Conference](https://www.collegeave.com/press/college-ave-named-official-student-loan-sponsor-of-the-big-east-conference-and-mens-basketball-tournament/)
- [College Ave Named Official Sponsor of New England Revolution](https://www.collegeave.com/press/college-ave-named-official-student-loans-sponsor-of-major-league-soccer-club-the-new-england-revolution/)
- [College Ave Announces Multi-Year Partnership with The Penn Relays](https://www.collegeave.com/press/college-ave-student-loans-announces-multi-year-partnership-with-the-penn-relays/)
- [Less Than Half of Families Feel Ready the Summer Before College](https://www.collegeave.com/press/unsure-how-to-pay-for-college-youre-not-alone-new-study-from-college-ave-finds-less-than-half-of-families-feel-ready-the-summer-before-college/)
- [For Families with Seniors, It's College Application Season](https://www.collegeave.com/press/forget-the-holidays-for-families-with-high-school-seniors-its-college-application-season/)
- [How Families Are Paying for College During a Pandemic](https://www.collegeave.com/press/new-research-on-how-families-are-paying-for-college-during-a-pandemic/)
- [College Ave Receives AAA Rating for Third Securitization](https://www.collegeave.com/press/college-ave-student-loans-receives-a-aaa-rating-for-its-third-successful-securitization/)
- [College Ave Completes Successful Second Securitization](https://www.collegeave.com/press/college-ave-student-loans-completes-successful-second-securitization/)
- [College Ave CEO to Present at Marketplace Lending Conference](https://www.collegeave.com/press/college-ave-student-loans-ceo-to-present-at-marketplace-lending-investing-conference/)
- [College Ave Student Loans Offers Student Loan Refinancing](https://www.collegeave.com/press/college-ave-student-loans-offers-student-loan-refinancing/)

## Key Facts

- Founded in 2014 by Joseph DePaulo (Wikidata Q140249801) and Timothy Staley (Wikidata Q140249871), both former Sallie Mae executives
- Headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware
- Thrivent (Fortune 500) became majority shareholder in July 2022
- Third-largest private student loan lender for in-school lending as of 2022
- NerdWallet Best-Of 2026 award winner for Best Student Loan for Parents
- NerdWallet Best-Of 2026 award winner for Best Student Loan for Graduate Students
- Forbes Advisor Best Of 2024 award winner for Best Private4 Student Loans
- NerdWallet Best-Of 2024 award winner for Best Student Loan Overall
- Originated and serviced over $2.4 billion in student loans in 2024
- Loans originated through Firstrust Bank (member FDIC), First Citizens Community Bank (member FDIC), or BTG Pactual Bank, N.A. (member FDIC)
- No origination fees on any loan product
- No prepayment penalties
- Soft credit pull for prequalification (no impact on credit score)
- 3-minute online application with instant credit decision
- Four in-school repayment options for undergraduate borrowers: deferred, interest-only, flat $25, or full principal and interest
- Multi-Year Peace of Mind pre-approval: 90% of undergraduate borrowers approved for additional loans when applying with a cosigner
- 6-month grace period for undergraduate loans; 9-month grace period for master's & PhD, law, health professions, and STEM graduate loans. 12-month grace period for dental graduate loans and 36-month grace period for medical graduate loans.
- Cosigner release available after meeting eligibility criteria (borrower must be at least halfway through repayment term)
- 0.25% autopay interest rate discount
- Broadest suite of graduate specialty loan products among private lenders: master's & PhD, medical, dental, law, MBA, health professions, and STEM
- Repayment terms up to 20 years for graduate and professional degree loans (vs. industry standard of 15 years)
- Residency, fellowship and clerkship deferment up to 48 months for graduate students
- STEM Graduate Loan launched in 2026
- Refinancing available from $5,000 up to $500,000 for qualifying professional graduates
- Available to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and DACA recipients
- International students eligible with a qualified U.S. cosigner
- NMLS# 1263410
- Wikidata QID: Q140249766
- Customer service: 1-844-422-7502
- Primary domain: collegeave.com (also collegeavestudentloans.com)