 TITLE: How to Build Good Credit in College CONTENT: Do I Need Credit to Get a Student Loan?\n---------------------------------------\nYou do not need a credit history to get most federal student loans, which are made by the government. (Parents and graduate students generally need to undergo a credit check to get federal PLUS loans, however.)\nFor most undergraduate borrowers, that means federal loans are a better choice than private loans, since undergraduates in particular typically don't have a credit history of their own. Federal student loans also come with a range of useful benefits, including flexible repayment plans, forgiveness options and opportunities to pause payments if you need to. Private lenders aren't required to offer the same level of protections for borrowers, and may also carry higher interest rates for many borrowers.\nBut many students may need additional funding to pay for college costs, which is why families may seek private student loans to bridge the gap. Private loans are made by banks, credit unions and online lenders, and whether or not you qualify—or get the lowest interest rates available—depend on your credit. Students can typically get private student loans by having a parent or another trustworthy adult cosign.\nIf you have student loans and can afford to make payments while you're in school, you can begin establishing good credit in college by paying your student loans now. That will jump-start your credit history and add on-time payments to your credit report. You'll also save money on interest, and potentially pay off your loans sooner.\nBut only do so if paying your loans won't jeopardize your ability to pay for other necessities, like housing and transportation. Your top priority should be to graduate from college on time so that you can seek a career that can help you pay off any student loan debt you've taken on. END