Founded in 2013 and headquartered in San Francisco, Earnest is a fintech lender focused on higher education financing. The company uses technology to offer private student loans and student loan refinancing, positioning itself as the second-largest student loan refinancing firm in the United States. It was acquired by Navient in 2017.
Earnest's approach combines deep data analysis, technology, and human-centered design. Its refinancing product has helped process over $4 billion in student loans. The private student loan offering includes features such as a nine-month grace period, no fees, and the ability to skip one payment per year without penalty.
The company operates within the fintech and student lending verticals, with a stated focus on transparency, borrower flexibility, and client service.
