Deciding Which Student Loan to Pay Off First

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Editor’s note: Lantern by SoFi seeks to provide content that is objective, independent and accurate. Writers are separate from our business operation and do not receive direct compensation from advertisers or partners. Read more about our Editorial Guidelines and How We Make Money.
Types of Student Loans
Direct subsidized loans
Direct unsubsidized loans
Direct PLUS loans
Direct consolidation loans
Private student loans
Does it Matter Which Student Loan You Pay Off First?
Is It Better to Pay off Subsidized or Unsubsidized Loans?
Paying Off Federal vs Private Student Loans First
Paying Off Student Loans With the Highest Interest Rate
Paying the Principal vs Paying Off Interest First
Is It a Good Idea to Pay Off Student Loans Early?
Finding the Right Student Loan Repayment Strategy
The Takeaway
Frequently Asked Questions
Photo credit: iStock/erdikocak
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About the Author
Rebecca Safier has nearly a decade of experience writing about personal finance. Formerly a senior writer with LendingTree and Student Loan Hero, she specializes in student loans, financial aid, and personal loans. She is certified as a student loan counselor with the National Association of Certified Credit Counselors (NACCC).
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