Co-signers

Applying with a qualified student loan co-signer is a good way to meet Monticello Student Loan eligibility requirements. With a strong co-signer, the likelihood of getting a fast approval on a private college loan goes way up. And unlike other private student loans, you won't be turned down because your family income is "too high" or your co-signer "has too much money."

Co-signer Frequently Asked Questions

How can I apply for a private college loan without a co-signer?
To apply without a co-signer, you need to satisfy three conditions:

  • You must have been continuously employed for at least 2 years. You will still need a co-signer unless you satisfy creditworthiness requirements and have sufficient income to repay our loan. You will need to provide a current pay stub or a letter from your employer to verify your current income.
  • You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who has resided in the U.S. for the previous two years.
  • You must have at least 21 months of credit experience and a satisfactory credit history.

Do most student applicants have a co-signer?
Yes. Most applicants need one.

Will having a co-signer help?
Yes. With a strong co-signer, the likelihood of a fast approval and a check mailed directly to you in about a week goes way up — even if you, the primary borrower, don't have an established credit history, and even if you've had credit problems in the past. A co-signer with excellent credit could also lower your loan rates and fees. In addition, a co-signer release benefit is available to borrowers who make their first 48 payments on time and who elect to make automated payments.1

Does having a qualified co-signer ever hurt my chances?
No. Unlike other student loans and grants, you won't be turned down because a parent or another co-signer "has too much money."

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  1. Co-signers will be eligible for co-signer release upon request if (1) the first 48 payments of principal and interest are paid on time, (2) at any time prior to the 48th on-time payment, the borrower who receives the monthly bill elects to have monthly principal and interest payments transferred electronically from a savings or checking account, and continues to make such automatic payments through the 48th payment, and (3) the borrower meets creditworthiness criteria at the time of the release of the co-signer. The co-signer release is only available for undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education loans.