 TITLE: How Much Should I Get in Student Loans? CONTENT: Start Building or Improving Your Credit Score\n---------------------------------------------\nWhile federal loans don't have any credit requirements, private lenders do consider creditworthiness in the borrowing process. If you anticipate needing private loans but haven't yet established credit, you may want to speak with your parents or guardians to find out their credit status and see if they're willing to cosign on a loan for you. If not, start making efforts to build your credit. You can do this by becoming an authorized user on a friend or relative's credit card or getting your own secured credit card.\nAdditionally, whether federal or private, all student loans impact your credit. But whether they hurt or help your credit depends on your behaviors. If you're trying to establish credit, having a student loan on your credit report can help since it adds to your credit mix and gives you a way to create a history of regular, on-time payments.\nHowever, making late payments or missing any can damage your credit. For this reason, prioritize making on-time payments to help establish strong credit. If, in the future, you think you'll miss a payment, reach out to your lender before your due date to see if special accommodations can be made including forbearance and deferment. END