Even with Bad Credit, Student Loans Are Available

Many Americans are increasingly finding that it is essential for them to earn a college degree in order to advance in the workplace in the 21st century. Whether you are a recent high school graduate or simply an adult looking to expand your working skills and resume, getting a Bachelor’s degree or continuing on to graduate study, will make a huge difference in your earning power over the course of your life. In fact, just earning a two year Associate’s degree is said to increase your yearly earnings, on average by $10,000 per year. Over your lifetime that $10,000, which increases exponentially with higher degrees, can make the difference between a comfortable middle class lifestyle and living paycheck to paycheck.Bad Credit BarriersThe problem that many Americans simultaneously face when it comes to college, however, is a struggle affording tuition payments. Many young students have no credit history and therefore fear they cannot obtain a student loan. Older students may have made credit mistakes in the past and ended up with a bad credit score. Either way, financing your college education through student loans can seem challenging.However, there are many options available to college students that provide specialized help. These loan programs recognize the importance of an education and will allow you to borrow money to be able to afford college regardless of your credit score.Federal Student AidThe federal government is one entity with a vested interest in helping students to get the money they need for college. Through several popular loan programs, the government provides low, fixed interest student loans that will not take credit into consideration. The most popular among these loans is the Stafford loan program which is easy to qualify for and does not require a credit check. Almost anyone can qualify for a Stafford loan, but there are two issues that may cause a barrier to getting the money you need.1. Default on previous student loan payments – if you took a student loan in the past and failed to repay it, the government will not lend to you again until you settle that debt and/or become current in your repayment.2. Criminal history – if you have a felony on your criminal record, there are also barriers to being able to obtain federal dollars for student loans. However, the government does offer counseling services for those with a criminal background that will help you to qualify for their student loan money.Other than these two issues, all college students, regardless of their level of education, will receive Stafford loan money without hassle.Private Lenders Also Provide OptionsOnce you look into the possibility of getting money through the federal government’s programs, your next option is to look towards private lending options. Though bad credit will have an impact on the interest rates that you pay, private lenders are willing to work with you to fund your college education. There are many online lenders who specialize in bad credit student loans who will help design a repayment plan that takes your student status into consideration.The benefits of college over your lifetime are too great to count. Earning a college degree has a huge impact on your job prospects as well as your ability to earn money. Making the choice to go to school is one of the best ones you can make for your future and, as a result, there are several ways to finance those dreams, even with bad credit. Student loans are available for anyone who has the desire to learn.