 TITLE: How Much Should I Get in Student Loans? CONTENT: Figure Out How Much You'll Need in Loans\n----------------------------------------\nIf you followed the first two steps, you now have an estimate for how much income you'll bring in each month or semester, in addition to how much you'll have to spend each month for both your education and living. Knowing the difference between the two numbers will help give you a sense of how much you'll need to borrow in student loans. The amount can vary greatly depending on whether you plan to attend a public or private school.\nAs you determine how much you need in student loans, keep in mind that you should aim to only borrow what you actually need to get through school. Unlike scholarships or grants, loans have to be repaid, and with interest. This can be a challenge for those just entering the workforce, so don't use your loans to live beyond your means, and borrow as little as you can.\nOnce you've got the amount you think you'll need dialed in, it's time to start thinking about what types of loans you'll want to borrow and what types are available to you. There are two broad types of student loans: Federal loans from the government and private loans from financial institutions like banks. There are major differences between the two, including in terms of how much it will cost to borrow. Before committing to a loan, understand which type will get you the best deal and end up costing you less in fees and interest charges. END