Fair credit sits in the middle—not great, not terrible. You have real options, but you need to choose wisely to avoid high fees and rates.
(Based on 200+ real borrower experiences with fair credit scores.)
Quick Answer:
With fair credit (600-679), Upstart is your best bet—their AI looks beyond credit scores and approves people that traditional lenders reject. Marcus works if you're closer to 680. Avoid lenders charging origination fees over 5% or APRs over 25% unless you have no other choice.
Typical APR Range
Lower 600s = higher rates. Upper 600s = closer to 14-18%.
Common Loan Amounts
Mid-range loans are accessible. $40K+ usually requires 680+.
Origination Fees
Most fair credit lenders charge fees. Factor this into your decision.
Min Credit: 600 | Typical APR: 14%-22%
Upstart uses AI to evaluate education, job history, and earning potential—not just credit scores. This is huge for fair credit borrowers. Many report getting approved with 620-660 scores when other lenders said no. Watch for origination fees (0%-10%) and make sure to factor that into your total cost.
Min Credit: 660 | Typical APR: 17%-25%
Marcus works best if you're on the higher end of fair credit (670-679). They have zero fees and unique flexibility features like skip-a-payment. If you're in the low 600s, you might get denied—but if you're approved, the no-fee structure saves you hundreds.
Best for: Highly competitive rates
Min Credit: 680 | Typical APR: 15%-20%
SoFi officially wants 680+ but some fair credit borrowers in the 660-679 range get approved. They look at income and employment stability, not just credit score. If approved, you get no fees and unemployment protection—but many fair credit applicants get denied.
Best for: Fast funding, large loans, unemployment protection
Lenders like Upstart care about your earning potential. If you have a degree or stable job, make sure that's front and center in your application.
Rates can vary wildly. One person was offered 22% by one lender and 14% by another—same credit score. Use soft credit checks (pre-qualification) to shop around.
If it's not urgent, 3-6 months of on-time payments can push you from 660 to 680+. That jump unlocks significantly better rates (often 5-7% lower APR).
See your options in 2 minutes. Soft credit check only.