Go all in to get the most out of school

There’s more to college than academics. Take in everything school has to offer.

Sallie’s your go-to for higher ed

We’re here from day one to done. Find your school, go after scholarships, get the right loan, and have the backup you need to reach your goals.

Start with outcomes

Get the full picture of your education costs and potential career path before making any big decisions.

Go after scholarships and grants

Finding free money always comes first. Start with a $2,000 no essay scholarship that takes 2 minutes or less to apply.

Borrow smart

Choose loans that fit your future, not just your right-now.

Take on school with Sallie Smart Takes

What are Smart Takes?

You won’t find Smart TakesSM guidance anywhere else. They’re everything you need to tackle big and small decisions, so you can stay on track, explore your options, and take on school the smart way.

Hey Sallie, where do I start?

Tell us some basics and we’ll match you with the right Smart Takes.

  • Are you a student or a parent of a student?
    • Student
    • Parent/guardian
  • Level of study
    • Select level of study: High school junior, High school senior, College freshman, College sophomore, College junior, College senior, College graduate (not in school), Considering graduate school, Graduate student
  • Looking for
    • Select interest: Help getting started, Colleges, Graduate schools, Scholarships, Loans, Financial aid, Ways to succeed in school

Get what you need to succeed

Sallie’s got more products and more ways to take on your future.

  • ScoutSM College Search: Explore and compare schools by what matters most to you.
  • Scholly® Scholarships: Easily find and go after scholarships to keep your costs down.
  • Sallie Mae® Student Loans: See all student loans. Lowest rates available for creditworthy applicants.

Do the math and check the facts first

Compare schools, majors, and costs based on what matters to your goals. Because better info means better decisions.

If the numbers don't feel right, you're not stuck and there are always other schools, timelines, or paths.

Find your best college match with ScoutSM College Search

Getting involved makes school more meaningful

Join clubs, make connections, and level up your skills. Your experiences can open doors, build confidence, and make the journey that much better.

Lower your costs with free money and financial aid

Apply early and often for scholarships and grants, even small awards add up. Fill out your FAFSA® every year, compare your offers, and remember: you can always negotiate your aid if you need to.

Borrow only what you need

If you still need money after financial aid, scholarships, and savings, don’t borrow more than you need to. A smaller undergraduate or graduate loan today means more freedom tomorrow.