Even after receiving grants, scholarships and federal loans, many students still need to seek additional financial assistance.* Private lenders to help students and their families bridge the gap between the cost of education and the amount covered by other student finance programs. Because private bank loans are credit-based, they normally require you to find a qualified co-borrower (or co-signer).

Once you have consulted with your own bank, credit union, or lending institution to see what they may have to offer, the Redstone student financing office can assist in determining the next steps.

What is a co-borrower?

For many loans you will need a co-borrower. A co-borrower (sometimes referred to as a co-signer) is a person other than you who signs the promissory note (promise to pay back) as support for repayment on the loan. A co-borrower might be a parent, a grandparent or a friend, someone with good credit who will sign with you for the loan. Someone who sees how committed you are to attend college. Many students need a co-borrower, especially if under the age of 24. A co-borrower with a good credit score can help secure a loan with the best possible interest rate.

For more information download our Co-borrower guide.

*Financial aid is available to those who qualify