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Student car loans guide

Learn how you can get a student car loan while studying and compare student car loans

OurMoneyMarket Car Loan - Excellent Credit logo image

From

6.57 % p.a.

fixed rate

From

6.57 % p.a.

comparison rate

Rate dependent on risk profile

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Name Interest Rate (p.a.) Comp. Rate (p.a.) Application Fee Monthly Fee Monthly Repayment
OurMoneyMarket Car Loan - Excellent Credit
ExclusiveFixed1 - 7 Years $2,001 - $75,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.57%
to 18.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
6.57%
to 21.78%
Application Fee
$0
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$613.62
Go to siteMore Info
Finder Exclusive: Apply by December 15th 2023 and if approved, OurMoneyMarket will waive the establishment fee for Excellent Credit Customers.
OurMoneyMarket New Car Loan
Fixed1 - 7 Years $2,001 - $75,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.57%
to 18.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
7.19%
to 21.78%
Application Fee
$250
min.
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$622.82
Go to siteMore Info
loans.com.au - New - Variable Rate Special
Variable3 - 7 Years $5,000 - $150,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.24%
to 7.74%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
7.36%
to 8.85%
Application Fee
$400
Monthly Fee
$8
Monthly Repayment
$630.83
Go to siteMore Info
NRMA New Car Loan
Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $130,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
7.29%
to 16.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8%
to 17.77%
Application Fee
$499
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$635.67
Go to siteMore Info
Note: Take out a loan for an eligible electric vehicle and receive a 1.5% discount on your personalised interest rate (interest rates start from 5.49% p.a. and comparison rates from 6.19% p.a.)
CarMoney New Car Loan
ExclusiveFixed18 Months - 7 Years $5,000 - $150,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.89%
to 15.09%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8%
to 16.16%
Application Fee
$400
Monthly Fee
$8
Monthly Repayment
$636.87
Go to siteMore Info
Finder Exclusive: Apply for and settle a car loan and get a $200 cashback. Limited time offer. Terms and conditions apply.
Stratton Finance New Car Loan
Fixed1 - 7 Years $10,000 - $300,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.52%
to 18%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
6.95%
to 23%
Application Fee
$395
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$625.27
Go to siteMore Info
You'll receive a fixed rate from 6.52% p.a. depending on the lender you are approved with.
Apply for up to $300,000 and use cash or trade in a vehicle to use as a deposit. Optional balloon payment available.
RACV New Car Loans
Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $150,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
7.29%
to 16.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8%
to 17.77%
Application Fee
$499
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$635.67
Go to siteMore Info
You'll receive a fixed rate from 7.29% p.a.
A larger loan of $5,000 or more to help you buy a new or used car. 5-hour pre approval available and no ongoing fees.
loans.com.au - New - Fixed Rate Special
Fixed3 - 7 Years $5,000 - $150,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
7.09%
to 8.29%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8.21%
to 9.1%
Application Fee
$400
Monthly Fee
$8
Monthly Repayment
$638.73
Go to siteMore Info
You'll receive a fixed rate of 7.09% p.a. based on your risk profile
Finance a new car and benefit from features such as fast approval, no ongoing fees and an optional balloon payment.

OurMoneyMarket Used Car Loan - No Vehicle Age Limit
Fixed1 - 7 Years $2,001 - $75,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.57%
to 18.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
7.19%
to 21.78%
Application Fee
$250
min.
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$622.82
Go to siteMore Info
NRMA Used Car Loan
Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $130,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
8.49%
to 16.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
9.21%
to 17.77%
Application Fee
$499
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$647.01
Go to siteMore Info
You'll receive a fixed rate from 8.49% p.a.
Finance a used car with NRMA and benefit from a fixed rate term and no monthly fees. Pre-approval available within 5 business hours.
CarMoney Used Car Loan
Fixed18 Months - 7 Years $5,000 - $150,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.2%
to 15.75%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
6.71%
to 16.18%
Application Fee
$399
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$622.43
Go to siteMore Info
Stratton Finance Used Car Loan
Fixed1 - 7 Years $10,000 - $300,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.52%
to 18%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
6.95%
to 23%
Application Fee
$395
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$625.27
Go to siteMore Info
You'll receive a fixed rate loan from 6.52% p.a. with a comparison rate of 6.95% p.a.
A used car loan of up to $300,000 with quick approval times and balloon payment options.
RACV Used Car Loans
Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $150,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
8.49%
to 16.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
9.21%
to 17.77%
Application Fee
$499
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$647.01
Go to siteMore Info
You'll receive a fixed rate from 8.49% p.a.
Benefit from no ongoing fees, 5-hour approval and a 21-day satisfaction guarantee. Interest rate discounts for members.
loans.com.au - Variable Rate Used Car < 3 years
Variable3 - 7 Years $5,000 - $150,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
7.74%
to 7.74%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8.85%
to 8.99%
Application Fee
$400
Monthly Fee
$8
Monthly Repayment
$644.82
Go to siteMore Info
loans.com.au - Variable Rate Used Car < 5 years
Variable3 - 7 Years $5,000 - $150,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
7.74%
to 7.74%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8.85%
to 8.99%
Application Fee
$400
Monthly Fee
$8
Monthly Repayment
$644.82
Go to siteMore Info
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How does a student car loan work?

A student car loan is like any other car loan. It's a financing option that lets you purchase a new or used vehicle. You borrow money to cover the purchase of the car, then repay the loan over a set period of time, generally one to seven years. You are charged interest on the loan, and this is added to your regular repayments.

What is the difference between secured and unsecured?

You generally have the option of a secured or unsecured loan, although car loans are typically secured. This means the vehicle you purchase is used as security against the loan, and the lender can take ownership of the vehicle if you fail to make your repayments.

With an unsecured car loan, you don't need to use the vehicle as security. However, you'll generally receive a higher interest rate, as this type of loan represents more risk to the lender. This means you're also more likely to be approved for a secured car loan as a student.

Am I eligible for a student car loan?

As a student, you're able to get a car loan provided you meet the lender's eligibility requirements. This means you'll generally need to be at least 18 years old, an Australian citizen or permanent resident and have a job or regular source of income.

Some lenders may have additional lending criteria and will generally not lend money to applicants whose primary source of income is Austudy, Youth Allowance or Newstart.

What if I'm an international or exchange student?

Unfortunately most lenders require you to be an Australian citizen or permanent resident. If you're on a study visa or other type of visa, it's unlikely that you would be eligible for a loan, but it may be worth checking with the lender directly.

Student car loans: A guide

How to compare student car loans

You should keep the following in mind when comparing student car loans:

  • The interest rate. The interest rate determines the amount of interest you will pay on your loan. The lower the rate, the less interest you will pay. Car loans can be offered with either a fixed rate, which stays the same throughout the loan, or a variable rate, which changes in line with market rates. Secured car loan rates generally range from 6% to 10%, and unsecured car loans generally range from 8.5% to 17%.
  • Any fees or charges. Many car loans will have additional fees or charges that you will need to pay as part of the loan. You should check which fees you may need to pay before applying for a loan, as these will affect your comparison rate, which helps show you the true cost of the loan.
  • Repayment flexibility. Some lenders will let you select how often you make repayments, which is generally on a weekly, fortnightly or monthly basis. You may also be able to make early repayments or repay the loan early, without penalty.
  • Additional features. These may include a redraw facility for additional repayments, pre-approval, online account management, a car-buying service to help you find your car or discounts on other products and services.

Tips for getting a student car loan

If you're a student, you may be working part time or casually, have a lower income and have a limited credit history, which can make it difficult to get a car loan. Use the tips below to help improve your chances of getting approved for a car loan.

  1. Build your credit history. Having a good credit history will make you more likely to be approved for a loan and may even help you get a better rate. You can build and improve your credit history by paying your existing bills on time, including your phone and utility bills, and by not applying for multiple loans. If you don't know your credit history, you can order a free copy here.
  2. Save for a deposit. While you don't necessarily need a deposit to get a car loan, it can give you a better chance of being approved. If you don't have any credit history, have a bad credit history or have negative equity on your existing car, you may be required to provide a deposit. Consider opening a high-interest savings account to earn interest on your savings and help build your deposit. Some of these accounts also have incentives for you to save regularly by awarding you bonus interest.
  3. Use a guarantor or co-borrower. If you don't have a credit history, it may be worth trying to find a guarantor for your car loan. A guarantor is generally a parent or other relative, and they take on the legal and financial responsibility of the loan if you fail to make your repayments. Having a guarantor may give you a better chance of being approved for a loan. However, you should make every effort to make your repayments, so your guarantor is never held responsible for the debt. You can also find a co-borrower to take out a joint personal loan, where you're both responsible for repaying the debt.

How to apply for a student car loan

Once you've chosen the car you want to buy, you'll need to find the car loan that best suits your needs. It's important to understand your loan options, and what you'll need to do to give yourself the best chance of being approved.

1. Compare your loan options.

You will need to choose whether you want a secured or unsecured car loan and a fixed or variable interest rate. You should also compare a number of loans based on the rate, fees and features they offer. You might also think about a peer-to-peer loan.

2. Check the eligibility criteria.

You should ensure you meet the eligibility criteria before applying for a specific loan. If you don't, you're likely to be rejected, which can affect your credit score. Lenders usually require you to be over 18, have a regular income and have some form of employment to be eligible for a car loan.

3. Have your documents ready.

As part of your application, you will need to provide a form of ID, payslips and information regarding your employment and finances (income, expenses and debts). If you've chosen your car, you will need to submit the make, model and year, the VIN/chassis number, registration number and purchase price.

4. Submit your application.

Depending on the lender, you may receive a response within a couple of minutes. Other lenders may take a few days to review your application and approve or deny your loan.

What criteria do car lenders have for used cars?

If you're looking to get a car loan for a used car, you need to check that the car meets the age requirements of the specific lender.

LenderCar loansVehicle requirementsMore information
Beyond BankLow Rate Car Loan
Flexi Loan
Car can be up to 6 years old
Car needs to be over 6 years old
More
CUAFixed Rate Car LoanCar can be up to 7 years oldMore
IMBSecured Personal LoanCar can be up to 6 years oldMore
NRMANRMA Car LoanNo set limitMore
RACVRACV Car LoanCar can be up to 10 years oldMore
St.GeorgeSecured Personal LoanCar must be less than 12 years old at loan expiryMore
SuncorpSecured Car LoanCar must be less than 12 years old at loan expiry
WestpacSecured Car LoanCar can be up to 7 years oldMore

Read our guide to buying a used car

Picture: Shutterstock

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