What's the difference between federal and private student loans?

Federal student loans come from the government and carry borrower-friendly features: fixed rates set by Congress, no credit check for most undergraduate loans, income-driven repayment, deferment and forbearance options, and forgiveness programs like PSLF. Private student loans come from banks and lenders, are priced on your credit (so they may need a cosigner), and generally offer far fewer protections — variable or higher fixed rates and little flexibility if you lose your job. The practical rule is to exhaust federal aid first by filing the FAFSA, then turn to private loans only to fill a remaining gap. Federal loans should almost always be your first dollar borrowed because of the safety nets. If you must use private loans, compare several lenders, understand whether the rate is fixed or variable, and borrow the minimum you truly need. Always file the FAFSA even if you think you won't qualify.