Skip Navigation

Private Education Loans

Private Education Loans

Private loans are credit-based loans offered by private banks and credit unions. Most student borrowers apply with a credit-worthy co-signer for approval. Interest rates, student eligibility, and repayment terms vary among lenders.  

OU encourages students to pursue all available types of financial aid including scholarships, federal grants and loans, and employment before borrowing a private loan.

Private Loan Lender List

Visit our private loan lender list on ELMSelect to view and compare lenders before applying. We provide this list of private loan lenders as a tool for our students and their families. Each lender was selected by the University of Oklahoma’s student loan specialists based on the quality of their products and services as well as their long-term commitment to the funding of higher education. The following criteria were considered in selecting lenders:

  • Lender’s payment of origination/other fees on behalf of the borrower
  • Highly competitive interest rates and other terms & conditions of the programs offered
  • High-quality servicing
  • Additional benefits to the borrower 

As with any major financial decision, it is best to research your options and choose the one that is best for you. You are not required to choose a lender from this list.

Recommended Application Deadlines

Private loan processing time varies, depending on the time of year. It's recommended that you apply by the dates below in order to receive your loan funds in a timely manner.

SemesterRecommended Deadlines
Fall/Spring June 1
Fall  June 1
Spring  November 1
Summer April 1

OU Financial Aid Services and abides by the College Loan Code of Conduct (pdf).