Student loan interest rates are constantly changing, so it's important to check current rates to get an idea of what you should shoot for. Federal student loan interest rates, which range from 6.39% to 8.94% for the 2025-26 academic year, are generally a good benchmark. If you're applying for private student loans, rates can range from roughly 3% to 18%, depending on the lender. You'll want to try and secure an interest rate on the low end of that spectrum. Understanding how interest rates on student loa ...