If your credit score is below 650, most major lenders will decline your application. Avant and Upstart are two of the most accessible alternatives — but they work very differently. Avant uses a traditional credit-based model with a lower minimum score. Upstart uses an AI model that factors in education and employment history, which can help or hurt depending on your profile.
Side-by-Side Comparison
The Verdict
Choose Avant if: You have a credit score in the 580–650 range with a consistent credit history, even if it includes some negative marks. Avant's traditional model is predictable — if your score meets the threshold, you are likely to be approved.
Choose Upstart if: You have a thin credit file (limited history), are a recent graduate, or have strong employment history that your credit score does not reflect. Upstart's AI model can approve borrowers that traditional lenders would decline. However, if your education and employment history are not strong, Upstart may not offer better terms than Avant.
Avant Personal Loans — Full Review
Avant is one of the most accessible personal loan lenders for borrowers with fair credit. The origination fee (up to 9.99%) is a real cost — factor it into your total loan cost before accepting an offer.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Pull →Upstart Personal Loans — Full Review
Upstart's AI model considers over 1,000 data points beyond your credit score, including your education, area of study, and employment history. This makes it particularly valuable for recent graduates or people with limited credit history who have strong earning potential.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Pull →See which bad credit loans you may qualify for
Answer 3 questions — no credit pull required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a personal loan with a 580 credit score?
Yes. Both Avant and Upstart work with borrowers in the 580–650 range. Expect higher interest rates — typically 25–35% APR — and origination fees. Always compare the total cost of the loan, not just the monthly payment.
Does Upstart approve everyone?
No. Upstart has no published minimum credit score, but it still declines applicants based on its AI model. Factors like income, employment history, and debt-to-income ratio all affect approval decisions.
Which is better for debt consolidation with bad credit?
Avant is generally more predictable for debt consolidation with a known credit score. Upstart may offer a lower rate if your education or employment history is strong, but results vary significantly by applicant.