When federal aid isn’t enough to cover tuition, many students turn to private education loans. But if you don’t have strong credit history—or any credit at all—getting approved can be tough.
That’s where a cosigner comes in. A cosigner with good credit can help you qualify for better rates and higher loan amounts, making private student loans more affordable.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best student loans with a cosigner for 2025, including top private student lenders, loan options for undergraduates and graduates, and tips to make the student loan application process easier.
Why Consider a Cosigner for Student Loans?
Most students are new to credit and income, which makes it difficult to get approved for private student loan options on their own. A cosigner—usually a parent, guardian, or close relative—shares legal responsibility for repayment. This benefits you in two ways:
- Better Approval Odds: Private student lenders are more likely to approve your loan.
- Lower Interest Rates: With a cosigner’s good credit, you may qualify for lower rates, reducing long-term debt.
- Higher Loan Limits: Cosigners can help you access the funds needed to cover tuition, housing, and other college costs.
Best Student Loans with Cosigner in 2025
Here are some of the best private student loans available this year if you’re applying with a cosigner.
1. Sallie Mae
- Flexible repayment plans for undergraduate student loans and graduate student loans
- Offers parent student loans as well
- Known for quick student loans with an easy online application
2. Discover Student Loans
- No fees for application, origination, or late payment
- Cash rewards for good grades
- User-friendly Discover student loan application process
3. SoFi Private Student Loans
- Competitive interest rates, especially with a cosigner
- Offers both grad school loans and undergraduate loans
- Known for strong customer support and extra perks like career coaching
4. Citizens Student Loans
- Multi-year approval option, so you don’t have to reapply every year
- Low fixed and variable interest rates with a cosigner
- Simplified process through their student loan website
5. College Ave Student Loans
- Wide range of repayment terms (5 to 15 years)
- Flexible repayment options for private education loans
- Considered one of the best places for private student loans due to transparency
Other Private Student Lenders to Consider
1. ELMSelect Student Loans: A comparison tool to find the best loan for your needs
2. Parent Student Loans: Some lenders allow parents to take full responsibility instead of cosigning
3. Private Loan Consolidation: For graduates, lenders offer private student debt consolidation to simplify repayment
How to Apply for Student Loans with a Cosigner
Applying for a private loan is straightforward, but you’ll need to prepare:
Choose the Right Lender – Compare interest rates, repayment terms, and benefits.
Start the Student Loan Application – Complete the form online through the lender’s student loan website.
Provide Cosigner Information – Your cosigner will need to submit credit, income, and personal details.
Wait for Approval – Many lenders offer instant or quick student loans decisions.
Accept and Sign – Once approved, both you and your cosigner must sign the agreement.
Tips for Choosing the Best Private Loans
- Look for good private student loans with no hidden fees.
- Use a cosigner who has strong credit history.
- Consider private loan consolidation after graduation if you have multiple loans.
- Always borrow the minimum amount needed to cover expenses.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best student loans with a cosigner can make a big difference in your college experience. With the right lender, you’ll secure lower interest rates, manageable repayment options, and enough funding to cover tuition and living expenses.
Whether you’re an undergraduate, graduate, or parent helping your child, comparing private student loan options from trusted student loan providers like SoFi, Discover, Citizens, and Sallie Mae will help you make the smartest financial decision in 2025.
Looking to apply now? Start by comparing offers from multiple private student lenders to find the best rates and terms for your future.