Read the whole offer, not just the rate.
A medical career has a long training period. Your loan needs to account for it.
Ask these questions in writing
What are the interest rate and APR? Is the rate fixed or variable? When do payments begin, including in residency and fellowship? How long can reduced payments or deferment last? Does unpaid interest capitalize, and when?
Look beyond the headline
Compare the same amount and term across offers. Ask about co-signer requirements and release, hardship options, death or disability discharge, fees, school eligibility, and whether future years require new approval.
Keep the funding gap visible
Review scholarships, institutional aid, and available federal benefits before borrowing privately. An approval for one year is not a guaranteed four-year financing plan.
Go to the source
Federal Student Aid · federal and private loans ↗CFPB · consolidation and refinancing ↗Rules and account details can change. Official sources determine eligibility; this page does not.