Finding Student Loan Help

Applying for student loans can be confusing, intimidating, and leave you feeling stressed.  Finding student loan help, though, is easier than you might think.  There are many resources available to answer your questions, make suggestions and help you through the student loan process.

Your Guidance Counselor
If you are a high school student, talk with your guidance counselor.  He or she is there to help you and will likely have a lot of good information to get you started.  Remember that even though this is the first time you have gone through the process, a guidance counselor has been through it countless times and can offer invaluable insights.

Your Intended College or University
Another great way to find student loan help is to contact the college or university you want to attend.  There you will find financial aid specialists who can help you through the process of finding and obtaining a student loan.  They also can help you find other student loans or aid that is available through the college or through the state in which they operate.

Your Local Library
Many local libraries offer special assistance to students seeking financial aid.  Their efforts range from hosting how-to seminars and workshops to helping you research less well known sources of student loans and other financial aid.

Your Internet Connection
The internet is a great place to research and seek out help with your student loan quest.  Beware, though, that many sites are out to sell you something rather than offer you objective assistance.  Never, ever pay for assistance with student loans, and watch out for subtle sales pitches disguised as free information.  Whatever you find out, check and double check with multiple sites to ensure the information is accurate and up to date.  If you find similar information on several reputable web sites then it’s likely to be accurate.  If, however, you find information that sounds too good to be true or that you can’t verify through other sources, put that information where it belongs – in the trash can.