Independent reviews · updated July 2026
Independent review

Earnest Review

loan, loans, student-loans, refinance, finance, student

Flexible private student loans and refinance with custom payment options.

Our verdict

Excellent refinance option if Earnest approves your profile.

Pros

  • Skip-a-payment flexibility
  • Rate check with soft credit pull
  • Customizable repayment terms

Cons

  • Selective underwriting
  • Fewer extras than full banks

Overview

Flexible private student loans and refinance with custom payment options.

Who it's for

Refinance shoppers who want payment flexibility.

Pros

  • Skip-a-payment flexibility
  • Rate check with soft credit pull
  • Customizable repayment terms

Cons

  • Selective underwriting
  • Fewer extras than full banks

Verdict

Excellent refinance option if Earnest approves your profile.

Check the official site for current pricing: https://www.earnest.com

Frequently asked questions

Is Earnest free?

Pricing changes — check https://www.earnest.com for the current free tier and plans.

Who is Earnest best for?

Refinance shoppers who want payment flexibility.

Ready to try Earnest?

Sign up through our tracked link — it costs you nothing and supports our independent reviews.

Visit site

Sponsored link. Studentinternet may earn a commission. See our how we review methodology.

More loan reviews

#1

SoFi

loan, loans, student-loans, refinance, finance, student
★★★★◐4.6

Top pick when you qualify for SoFi’s best tiers.

  • Competitive refinance rates for strong credit
  • Unemployment protection options
#2

Credible

loan, loans, student-loans, refinance, finance, student
★★★★☆4.4

Best starting point to compare private loan/refinance offers side by side.

  • Compare multiple lenders in one place
  • Soft credit check to shop rates
#3

College Ave

loan, loans, student-loans, refinance, finance, student
★★★★☆4.3

Strong private lender for in-school borrowing with a cosigner.

  • In-school and parent loan options
  • Rewards / cash-back promotions at times

Part of the VNOC network

Explore the platforms powering this site.