Student loans are lending instruments that enable people to meet educational needs when they do not have sufficient personal resources to fund schooling. Student loans can be used to pay for such things as tuition, books, fees and even room and board. There are two primary sources for student loans. The federal government’s loan programs are perhaps the most popular because they offer simple repayment terms and lenient approval standards. These loans are written by private lenders, but are backed by the government. Students can also obtain financing through private lenders.