Plus vs. Private

[Kroman]

I am a parent who will have 2 kids starting college in the fall. All of this loan business is confusing. I want the kids to pay there own way with my help but which is the way to go on the loans??? Plus vs Private I guess I am either the primary or the co borrower either way.

 

Which is best?

 

Thanks

[sparklediamant]

The PLUS loan is a federal loan given to you, the parent. Private loans are usually taken out by the student, though they sometimes will require a co-borrower. The PLUS loan has to be offered in your financial aid award package, and private loans you can pursue on your own, usually through a bank or Sallie Mae. The PLUS loan will probably have a lower interest rate, though I'm not sure. It's totally up to you which one you would rather do: be the primary borrower on a PLUS loan or co-borrower on your student's loan. The financial aid office of the school your kids are attending should be able to give you a good amount of information on the PLUS loan.