OUR VERDICT
Upstart wins for borrowers with thin credit files or non-traditional backgrounds. Avant wins for borrowers who want predictable rates and a straightforward application.
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Unique advantage: AI underwriting considers education and employment — good for recent graduates
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
Unique advantage: Specializes in fair credit borrowers — more predictable approval for 580–669 scores
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
Based on our analysis of thousands of consumer financial profiles, the most common mistake people make is focusing solely on the interest rate without considering total loan cost, fees, and repayment flexibility. Always compare the APR — not just the rate — and read the fine print on prepayment penalties before signing.
| Feature |  Upstart Personal Loans |
 Avant Personal Loans |
|---|---|---|
| APR Range | 7.80%–35.99% | 9.95%–35.99% |
| Loan Amount | $1,000–$50,000 | $2,000–$35,000 |
| Loan Terms | 3 or 5 years | 2–5 years |
| Minimum Credit Score | 580+ | 580+ |
| Origination Fee | 0%–12% | Up to 4.75% |
| Funding Speed | 1 business day | 1 business day |
| AI Underwriting | Yes | No |
| Prepayment Penalty | None | None |
| Available States | Most states | Most states (not CO, IA, WV) |
Upstart is best for borrowers with thin credit files, recent graduates, or those with non-traditional income who may be underserved by traditional underwriting.
Avant is best for borrowers with established fair credit (580–669) who want predictable approval odds and a lower origination fee.
Is Upstart or Avant better for bad credit?
Both accept 580+ credit scores. Upstart's AI underwriting can be advantageous for borrowers with thin files or non-traditional backgrounds (recent graduates, self-employed). Avant specializes in fair credit and has a lower maximum origination fee (4.75% vs 12%). For most fair-credit borrowers, Avant's lower origination fee makes it the better choice.
What is Upstart's minimum credit score?
Upstart accepts applicants with credit scores as low as 580. However, Upstart's AI model also considers education level, employment history, and area of study, so some applicants with no credit score may also qualify.
Does Avant charge origination fees?
Yes. Avant charges an origination fee of up to 4.75%, which is deducted from your loan proceeds. On a $10,000 loan, you'd receive $9,525 but owe $10,000. Factor this into your total cost calculation when comparing lenders.