List all current student loans, including balances, interest rates, servicers, and loan types
Check whether your loans are federal, private, or a mix
Review whether consolidation is the right option for your situation
Compare federal consolidation and private refinancing
For federal loans, apply for a Direct Consolidation Loan through StudentAid.gov
Select which federal loans to include in the consolidation
Choose a repayment plan for the new consolidated federal loan
For private loans, shop for refinance offers from multiple lenders
Compare interest rates, fees, repayment terms, and borrower benefits
Submit the refinance application with required financial and identity documents
Review the new loan terms carefully before accepting
Use the new loan to pay off the old loans
Confirm the old loans are closed and the new payment schedule is active
Set up automatic payments if available
Keep records of all consolidation or refinance documents
Verify whether consolidating will affect forgiveness, deferment, or income-driven repayment eligibility
Avoid consolidating federal loans into a private loan if you want to keep federal protections