<p>Due to the changes starting July 1st, would it be worth it to secure a subsidized stafford loan before then. This would be for a first year student, not a consolidation deal. Also when should you start securing private loans due to the fact you don't want to take them out to early due to interest on them.</p>
<p>The rates before July 1st are adjustable, so they potentially will end up being sigificantly higher when the loan comes due than the fixed rate that is effective July 1st. I think it's better to go with the fixed rate but shop around to find a lender that will discount the rate immediately on repayment if you sign up for automatic withdrawal for your payments.</p>