Earnest student loan refinance reviews highlight a lending platform that rivals the best refi companies available. Offering flexible repayment terms, a solid user interface, and strong customer review scores, Earnest has become a serious contender in student loan refinancing. But is it the right fit for your needs?
This review covers everything you need to know about student loan refinance options through Earnest, including costs, features, eligibility requirements, and how it compares to others.
Student Loan Refinancing
Pros
No origination, prepayment, or late fees
Option to skip one payment per year
High borrowing limits up to $500,000
Repayment terms up to 20 years
Cons
Requires a minimum credit score of 665 for graduates
Requires a minimum credit score of 700 for non-grads
Not available to borrowers in Nevada
Earnest Features and Benefits
Earnest refinancing borrowers can customize their loan terms to fit their budgets, choose from a wide range of repayment options, and enjoy a simple online process.
- Repayment term lengths from five to 20 years
- Borrow between $5,000 and $500,000 (state dependent)
- Skip-a-payment option to skip one payment per year
- Autopay discount: 0.25% interest rate reduction for autopay
- Hardship forbearance available
Earnest Student Loan Refinance Reviews: Editorial Rating
Trusted Company Reviews Rating Score for Earnest: 8.1
Earnest earns strong marks for affordability, transparency, and borrower-friendly features. The platform’s no-fee structure and ability to customize terms stand out from the competition.
During our research, the platform’s ease of use impressed us. Its ratings with Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau were also notable positives.
Overall, Earnest is ideal for financially stable borrowers seeking flexibility and ease. Scoring 8.1 based on our rating criteria, it ties with at least one company that landed in our top five student loan refinancing company overview.
The company lost a few points against our leader, Credible, due to working with just two lending providers compared to Credible’s numerous partner companies.
| BBB rating | A+ |
| Refi loan terms | 5 to 20 years |
| Repayment options | Monthly and bi-weekly |
| Loan amounts | $5,000 to $500,000 |
About Earnest Student Loan Refinancing
Earnest launched in 2013 as a fintech alternative to traditional lenders and was acquired by Navient in 2017. Today, it’s recognized for offering some of the most flexible student loan refinance options available. While Earnest isn’t a direct lender, it works with OneAmerican Bank and FinWise Bank to provide refinance funding.
The company stands out for allowing borrowers to select precise loan terms from five to 20 years, with monthly increments, rather than sticking to conventional terms. Earnest also provides Parent PLUS student loan refinancing, excellent customer service, and a generous forbearance policy.
Earnest Student Loan Refinancing Rates and Terms
Earnest offers fixed APRs starting around 4.29% and variable APRs starting around 5.88%, with maximum rates around 10.24%. All rates include a 0.25% discount for setting up autopay and are subject to change. Interest rates are competitive with other top lenders, though individual offers depend on your credit score, income, and financial history.
How to Qualify for Earnest Student Loan Refinancing
Borrowers must meet these criteria to be eligible for student loan refinancing through Earnest.
- Minimum credit score of 665 for those with a degree
- Minimum credit score of 700 for those without a degree
- No current bankruptcies on record
- No current debt collection attempts on record
- Must be employed or have a job offer
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Loans must be current in repayment status
What to Know About Refinancing Federal Student Loans
Refinancing federal student loans with Earnest means giving up federal protections like income-driven repayment plans and loan forgiveness programs. This trade-off makes refinancing best for those who do not plan to use federal benefits or who already have private student loans.
Be sure to weigh your options carefully before converting federal debt into a private loan.
Is Earnest Student Loan Refinancing Worth It?
If you’re looking for low-cost, flexible options with an easy online application, Earnest is one of the most competitive choices available. While it didn’t officially make our list of the top five providers, borrowers with strong credit and income can find a solid solution using Earnest.
However, if you need federal student protections or may need them in the future, reconsider refinancing federal student loans with any provider.
Earnest Customer Reviews
Earnest maintains a strong reputation among its customers. The evidence includes its 4.7 out of 5-star Trustpilot rating, based on more than 6,800 reviews. And, while it has received some complaints at the BBB, the company earns an A+ grade for its responses and attention to the complaints.
Customers frequently highlight the platform’s ease of use and smooth online experience. Additionally, customer reviews often describe the application process as fast and hassle-free. Many reviewers cite Earnest’s helpful and responsive customer service team for providing quick answers and personalized support.
On the negative side, some customers express frustration over communication issues during repayment, as well as confusion surrounding eligibility or unexpected denials.
Earnest vs. Credible
Between Earnest and Credible, the latter comes out ahead for borrowers looking to shop around and maximize their options. As a true lending marketplace, Credible partners with multiple reputable lenders, compared to Earnest’s two providers. This makes it easier for you to find the best interest rates, repayment terms, and borrowing details based on your unique financial situation.
While Earnest stands out for its highly customizable repayment terms and borrower-friendly features, it doesn’t offer the same level of choice or competition as Credible.
Credible is the stronger option for those looking to shop around for the best deal. It’s especially valuable for those who didn’t earn a degree or whose credit score is less than stellar.
| Earnest | Credible |
| Highly customizable loan terms | Loan terms vary by lender |
| Minimum credit score varies based on degree or no degree | As low as 620 with some lenders |
| Available in every state except Nevada | Available in all 50 states |
Earnest Student Loan Refinancing Alternatives
While Earnest offers excellent loan customization and solid customer service, it’s far from the only option available to borrowers looking to refinance their student loans. Depending on your financial situation and preferences, several other lenders and platforms might be a better fit.
- Credible is an excellent place to start if you’re still shopping around. As a full lending marketplace, Credible allows you to compare offers from many lenders with just one application, giving you a comprehensive view of your options. If getting the lowest rate or best terms is your top priority, Credible offers the widest comparison tool available.
- ELFI stands out for borrowers with good to excellent credit. It consistently earns high ratings for low interest rates, generous loan limits, and strong customer service.
- MEFA is a non-profit lender that may appeal to those looking for transparent terms and a stable, reliable organization. While its offerings are less flexible than Earnest’s, MEFA is a trusted option with low fees and no surprises.
- RISLA and Citizens Bank round out our list of the best alternatives to Earnest. Each provides personalized service, multiple borrowing options, and excellent customer satisfaction reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Should I refinance my student loans?
Source
Logo image source: earnest.com
Deane Biermeier is a respected authority in financial research, writing, and editing, renowned for his in-depth analyses and expert advice. With a distinguished career that previously spanned home improvement, real estate, and finance topics, Deane's role at Trusted Company Reviews focuses exclusively on finance.
Deane continues his contributions to leading publications such as Forbes Home, US News and World Report, Newsweek Vault, and others.
Since joining TrustedCompanyReviews.com in 2023, he has solidified his reputation as a crucial resource for clear, factual financial guidance.
Deane is currently enhancing his expertise by studying at the University of Minnesota to become a certified financial educator. This new qualification is set to further enrich the advice and insights he provides, bridging the gap between academic financial theory and practical application.
Deane Biermeier
Last Updated: April 13, 2025
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