Parent PLUS loans vs. private student loans: Which has better rates? By Andrew Dunn Our goal here at Credible Operations, Inc., NMLS Number 1681276, referred to as "Credible" below, is to give you the tools and confidence you need to improve your finances. Although we do promote products from our partner lenders, all opinions are our own. Parent PLUS Loans vs. private loans: Learn how to decide which is best to pay for your child’s education. (iStock) If your child’s financial aid doesn’t cover the full cost of their higher education, and you don’t want them to graduate with student loan debt, you may consider taking out loans yourself.