Upstart is a personal loan provider that offers financial solutions primarily for recent college graduates and young professionals. What separates Upstart from other personal loan providers is its unique approval process. For a recent college graduate, Upstart looks heavily at the applicant's GPA, SAT scores, and areas of study, instead of only credit history. Because this process is tailored to meet the individual applicant, Upstart states it is able to save its borrowers over 25% compared to high-interest credit card rates.

• High Likelihood of Approval
• Flexible Options, Fast Disbursements 

High Likelihood of Approval 

Upstart is an excellent choice for applicants who have little to no credit history and a quality education or a high-paying job. Upstart personal loans are tailored to meet the needs of the individual applicants. This is especially helpful for young professionals or recent college graduates. There is a minimum credit score requirement of 640, but there are no minimum lines of credit or years of credit required in order to apply. Factors that go into determining eligibility include:

• Education 
• Areas of study 
• Job history 
• FICO score
• Years of credit 

Flexible Options, Fast Disbursement 

The application process is tailored to the needs of the applicant allowing Upstart to pass on its savings directly to the borrower. This can be seen in its 4.99 percent-29.99 percent APR Range, low fees, and competitive max loan term (five years).The process, from start to finish, is also incredibly fast. Most borrowers are able to receive their funds the day after they apply and are approved (it takes up to three days for education loans). This is at least a day faster than some top personal loan companies. 

• Not Ideal for Debt Consolidation
• Fees Can Add Up

Not Ideal for Debt Consolidation

Although the approval process is tailored to meet the needs of the individual applicant, being approved can be challenging. The average Upstart personal loan borrower has the following credentials:

• Credit score of roughly 620
• Debt-to-income ratio of 18%
• Mid-twenties to mid-thirties

Since most borrowers are looking to consolidate debt, the above credentials can be difficult to meet.

Fees Can Add Up

Upstart personal loans do have fees to consider. It enforces an origination fee of 1 percent to 6 percent. This fee is taken out of the loan before the funds are disbursed to you, meaning 1percent to 6 percent of the total amount of the loan is taken out. This percentage is determined by how qualified the borrower is, with higher rates going to less qualified applicants. Upstart also charges late fees at a standard rate of 5 percent or $15 (whichever is greater). Unlike some of its competitors, Upstart does not charge a check processing fee or a prepayment penalty.

Upstart is a solid choice for young professionals with little to no credit. Its unique application process allows these individuals to receive competitive terms that are ideal for consolidating high-interest debt. Upstart personal loans are funded the day after an applicant has been approved, making them a solid choice for someone in need of cash quickly.