It almost doesn’t matter if you have bad credit or no credit. The fact of the matter is there are very few lenders who are willing to give you a student loan. While your financial history may be spotty, this shouldn’t deter you from doing your best to obtain an education so that you can better your life. Here are some things you should keep in mind as you are looking for ways to finance your education despite your credit history.

Visit Your School’s Financial Aid Office

Educational institutions want you to be able to take classes. Every school has its own financial aid office dedicated to helping students obtain the funding they need. The advisers there have worked with students from all walks of life. This means they’re likely to be able to point you to an affordable loan source, regardless of your credit history.

Federal Student Loans

You must, no matter what your situation, fill in a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form each spring. The federal government maintains that a student with true financial need can qualify for certain types of loans – like the Stafford Loan or a Perkins Loan, both run by the government – without regard for their credit score or history. The amount you can borrow will depend upon where you are in your educational pursuit and whether or not you are considered a dependent student.

Look for a Co-signer

A co-signer is someone with good credit who agrees to use his own credit score to vouch for you. If you default on your loan payments, you co-signer becomes responsible. This can be good for a student who is responsible and has the means to pay off a loan, because it gives him the opportunity to get the ball rolling and rebuild his own financial history. Problems arise when students default, leaving their co-signers holding the bag and, in many cases, ruining relationship. Be very careful about who you ask to co-sign a loan on your behalf.

Talk to Private Lenders

If all else fails, go to your local bank or credit union and explain your situation. Many lenders are willing to work with students. You may end up paying a higher interest rate than you originally anticipated, but you’ll end up with the cash you need to finance your education.

Peer to Peer Lending

Peer to peer lending is lending that does not happen through a formal banking institution. Sites like Prosper have been set up to help individuals finance projects and educational pursuits. You create a profile and share your situation. Those who are willing will lend you all or part of the amount you need. You’ll still have to make regular, timely payments – and a lack of payment will show on your credit score. The benefit is that you have a better chance of convincing someone to help based on your life story rather than your financial numbers alone.

Don’t despair and don’t give up on your educational pursuits. Student loans are available for those with bad credit. You just have to be willing to do the work to find them.

About the Author: Deborah Blair is a full-time writer with a passion for personal finance and education. She specializes in sharing information that will help those with poor credit histories obtain secure or unsecured bad credit loans.