College can be expensive, it’s no hidden secret. Between room and board, textbooks and semester after semester of classes, the costs can really add up. Student loans are a route many take just to get by while still working towards their degree. But, sometimes it’s tough to know which loan to apply for or where to go for information.

Student loans are almost like credit cards. You have your interest rates, grace periods and maximum amounts, similar to any typical credit card. However, there are undergraduate loans and loans designated for those attending grad school. If your credit isn’t the greatest, consider signing up for a student loan with a cosigner, such as a parent or spouse. That way, if they are in better standing with the credit bureaus, you have a better chance of snagging lower interest rates.

6StarReviews.com reports that one student loan provider, NextStudent, provides instant pre-approval, as well as an online application. Many similar sites allow you to compare and contrast student loans right on the Web, letting you shop around for loans fitting your financial needs. Another popular company providing student loans is Sallie Mae, which houses some great resources on scholarships, financial aid and grants. Like NextStudent, they allow you to sign up for and manage your loan right on your PC.

About 50% of college graduates hold some form of student loan under their belts and the average student has around $10,000 to pay off. Education is vital in this day and age and these numbers reflect that sentiment. When signing up for a student loan, it’s important to consider interest rates, minimum and maximum loan amounts and repayment time periods. There are plenty of options to choose from, it’s simply a matter of wearing the shoe that fits.