The average interest rate on 10-year fixed-rate private student loans inched up last week. For many borrowers, that means rates continue to be low enough to make private student loans a decent option, especially if you have good credit.

For borrowers with a credit score of 720 or higher who prequalified on Credible.com’s student loan marketplace from January 17 to January 21, the average fixed interest rate on a 10-year private student loan was 6.75%. On a five-year variable-rate loan, the rate was 3.82%, according to Credible.com.

Related: Best Private Student Loans

Fixed-rate Loans

Last week, the average fixed rate on a 10-year loan climbed by 0.07% to 6.75%. The average stood at 6.68% the week prior.

Borrowers in the market for a private student loan now can receive a higher rate than they would have at this time last year. At this time last year, the average fixed rate on a 10-year loan was 5.53%, 1.22% lower than today’s rate.

Let’s say you financed $20,000 in student loans at today’s average fixed rate. You’d pay around $230 per month and approximately $7,558 in total interest over 10 years, according to Low Cost Advisor’s student loan calculator.

Variable-rate Loans

Average variable rates on five-year loans moved down last week to 3.82% on average from 4.54%.

In contrast to fixed rates, variable interest rates fluctuate over the course of a loan term. Variable rates may start lower than fixed rates, especially during periods when rates are low overall, but they can rise over time.

Private lenders often offer borrowers the option to choose between fixed and variable interest rates. Fixed rates may be the safer bet for the average student, but if your income is stable and you plan to pay off your loan quickly, it could be beneficial to choose a variable loan.

Financing a $20,000 five-year private loan at 3.82% would yield a monthly payment of approximately $367. A borrower would pay $2,002 in total interest over the life of the loan. Keep in mind that since the interest rate is variable, it could change monthly.

Related: How To Get A Private Student Loan

How To Get a Private Student Loan

If you reach the annual borrowing limits for federal student loans or if you’re otherwise ineligible for them, private student loans may be a decent option. But consider a federal student loan as your first option since the interest rates are typically lower. For example, the interest rate for federal undergraduate student loans is 3.73% for the 2021-22 school year. You’ll also receive more liberal repayment and forgiveness options with federal student loans.

To get a private student loan, you’ll generally need to apply directly through a non-federal lender. You can find private student loans through banks, credit unions and online entities. Nonprofit organizations, state agencies and colleges also offer loans.

If you’re an undergraduate with limited credit history, you’ll generally need to apply with a co-signer who can meet the lender’s borrowing requirements.

Here’s what to consider when applying for a private student loan:

• Make sure you qualify. Private student loans are credit-based, and lenders typically require a credit score in the high 600s. This is why having a co-signer can be particularly beneficial.
• Apply directly through lenders. You can apply directly on the lender’s website, via mail or over the phone.
• Compare your options. Look at what each lender offers and compare the interest rate, term, future monthly payment, origination fee and late fee. Also, check to see if the lender offers a co-signer release so that the co-borrower can eventually come off of the loan.

Shopping for Private Student Loans

When shopping for a private loan, consider the overall cost of the loan, including interest rate and fees. You may also want to consider the type of assistance each lender offers if you’re not able to make your loan payments.

Remember, those with good or excellent credit typically get the best rates.

How much should you borrow? Experts generally recommend borrowing no more than you’ll earn in your first year out of college. How much can you borrow? Some lenders cap the amount you can borrow each year, while others don’t. When you’re shopping around for a loan, take to lenders about how the loan is disbursed and what costs it will cover.

The Rate You’ll Receive

Lenders offering private student loans generally offer both fixed and variable interest rates. These rates are, in part, based on your creditworthiness. Generally, the higher your credit score, the lower the interest rate you’ll receive. But credit history, income, the degree you’re working on and your career can factor into the interest rate you receive as well.