Private Loans

Private student loans, also called alternative loans, are offered by banks, credit unions, and other private lenders instead of the federal government. These loans can help pay for education costs, but each lender has its own rules for who qualifies, how much you can borrow, interest rates, and repayment options. We recommend using private loans only after you have used all available federal loan options.

Choosing a Lender

A list of private lenders that Riverland students have used in the past is available by clicking the FASTChoice button below. Riverland does not recommend or favor any specific lender. You may choose another qualifying lender if they meet your needs and eligibility requirements.

Some lenders offer private loan options to help cover past-due balances, less than a year old.  Check the eligibility requirements for each loan in FASTChoice to see if this option is available.

Neither Riverland nor its employees receive any benefits or payments from lenders.

Lender Transparency

Our officials are prohibited from accepting any financial or other benefits in exchange for displaying lenders and loan options in FASTChoice .

Prohibited activities include:

• Receiving compensation to serve on lender boards or advisory boards
• Accepting gifts such as trips, meals, or entertainment
• Allowing lenders to staff the Financial Aid Office
• Allowing lenders to use Riverland’s name or logo
• Owning lender stock (for officials involved in financial decisions)

The inclusion of a loan or lender does not imply endorsement. Information is provided by lenders and may change. Riverland is not responsible for lender content or external websites. Contact lenders directly to confirm details.