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Student Loan Consolidation FAQ

By , About.com Guide

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When Should I Consolidate?

You can consolidate your student loans during your grace period or during repayment. You might even get to do a consolidation before you graduate. The timing depends on a variety of factors.
  • Consolidating during the grace period may get you a lower rate
  • You don’t want to consolidate too soon after graduation. If you do, you might lose out on some interest subsidies
  • If you think interest rates are low, you might lock in the rate
  • If you want a lower monthly payment today, you might try to get an extended repayment plan
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