STUDENT LOANS

Best Student Loans in Texas for 2026

6.53%Federal Loan Rate
$37KAvg. Student Debt
10 yrsStandard Repayment
📋 Reviewed by WiseIQ Editorial Team · Updated April 2026 · Editorially independent
Texas

Navigating student loan options in Texas can be complex. WiseIQ provides a comprehensive guide to help you find the best private student loans, understand state grant programs, and connect with top lenders tailored for Texas students.

52% Graduates with Debt (2019-20)
15% Delinquency Rate (2019)

Texas Student Loan Financial Snapshot

WISEIQ TOP PICK
PERSONAL LOANS
Upstart logoUpstart
Best for fair & thin credit · AI-powered approval
APR RANGE
7.80%–35.99%
LOAN AMOUNT
$1K–$50K
MIN. CREDIT
300
✓ No prepayment penalty ✓ Funds in 1 business day ✓ Soft pull pre-qualification ✓ Considers education & job history
Check My Rate →
No credit score impact
WiseIQ may earn a referral fee if you apply through this link. Rates shown are representative and may vary. See Upstart's website for full terms.

Student Loans in Texas: What You Need to Know

Texas, known as the Lone Star State, has a population of 30.5M with a median household income of approximately $65,000. The current unemployment rate stands at 3.8%, which lenders consider when evaluating applications from Texas residents.

30.5M
Population
$65,000
Median Income
3.8%
Unemployment

Major financial hub: Houston is the primary financial center for Texas residents, with access to both national and regional lenders.

$105 Billion Total Student Loan Volume (2018)
TEXAS Grant Key State Grant Program
Lower than Avg. Debt per Borrower

Top Private Student Loan Lenders in Texas

Brazos Higher Education

For Texas Residents
APR Range: 4.50% - 12.99% Variable
"Zero fees and competitive rates for Texas students."
  • Dedicated to Texas residents
  • No application or origination fees
  • Flexible repayment options
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HESCLoans.com

Texas Extra Credit Private Student Loan
APR Range: 5.25% - 13.50% Variable
"Low-cost option for undergraduate and graduate students."
  • Available for undergrad and grad students
  • Cosigner release option
  • Competitive interest rates
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Texans Credit Union

Texans Private Student Loan
APR Range: 5.00% - 14.00% Variable
"Designed to fill the gap when federal aid isn't enough."
  • Exclusive for Texas residents
  • Covers up to 100% of school-certified costs
  • Local support and service
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Sallie Mae

National Private Student Loan Provider
APR Range: 4.75% - 15.75% Variable
"A widely recognized lender with various loan products."
  • Loans for undergraduates, graduates, and parents
  • Deferred payment options
  • Rewards for on-time payments
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Discover Student Loans

National Private Student Loan Provider
APR Range: 4.99% - 14.99% Variable
"No fees and cash rewards for good grades."
  • No application or origination fees
  • Cash reward for good academic performance
  • 24/7 customer service
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Student Loan Comparison Table

Lender APR Range (Variable) Loan Types Key Features Action
Brazos Higher Education 4.50% - 12.99% Undergrad, Grad No fees, Texas-focused Check Rates
HESCLoans.com 5.25% - 13.50% Undergrad, Grad Cosigner release, competitive rates Check Rates
Texans Credit Union 5.00% - 14.00% Undergrad, Grad Local support, covers 100% costs Check Rates
Sallie Mae 4.75% - 15.75% Undergrad, Grad, Parent Deferred payments, rewards Check Rates
Discover Student Loans 4.99% - 14.99% Undergrad, Grad, Bar Exam, Residency No fees, good grades reward Check Rates
College Ave 4.25% - 13.75% Undergrad, Grad, Parent Customizable repayment, cosigner release Check Rates
Earnest 4.00% - 12.50% Undergrad, Grad, Refinance Flexible payments, no fees Check Rates

Ready to Find Your Best Student Loan?

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How to Choose the Right Student Loan in Texas

1. Exhaust Federal Options First

Always prioritize federal student loans (Stafford, Perkins, PLUS) before considering private options. They often come with lower fixed interest rates, income-driven repayment plans, and opportunities for deferment or forbearance.

2. Compare Private Lenders Carefully

If federal loans aren't enough, research private lenders. Look for competitive APRs, flexible repayment terms, and no origination fees. Consider lenders with a strong presence in Texas for potentially better local support.

3. Understand State Grant Programs

Texas offers several grant programs like the TEXAS Grant and TPEG. These are need-based aid that doesn't need to be repaid. Check eligibility requirements through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

4. Consider a Cosigner

If you have limited credit history, a cosigner with good credit can significantly improve your chances of approval and help you secure a lower interest rate on private student loans. Ensure both parties understand the responsibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Student Loans in Texas

What is the average student loan debt in Texas?
As of 2023, the average student loan debt for graduates in Texas was approximately $24,000. This figure is generally lower than the national average, reflecting various state-specific factors.
Are there state-specific student loan programs in Texas?
Yes, Texas offers several state-specific financial aid programs, including the TEXAS Grant and the Texas Public Educational Grant Program (TPEG), which provide need-based assistance to eligible students attending Texas institutions. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board also offers low-interest loans.
How do private student loans work in Texas?
Private student loans in Texas are offered by banks, credit unions, and online lenders. They are typically credit-based and may require a cosigner. Lenders like Brazos Higher Education and Texans Credit Union specialize in serving Texas residents, often providing competitive rates and tailored services.
What is the delinquency rate for student loans in Texas?
In 2019, about 15% of student loan borrowers in Texas were 90 days or more in default. While this indicates a challenge for some, it was an improvement from peak delinquency rates in 2013.
Can I get a student loan without a cosigner in Texas?
It is possible to get a private student loan without a cosigner, especially if you have a strong credit history and sufficient income. However, many students, particularly undergraduates, benefit from having a cosigner to secure better rates and approval. Some lenders offer cosigner release options after a period of on-time payments.