Another credit union has entered the private student loanmarket. Thrivent Federal Credit Union, one of the country's largestfaith-based credit unions with more than $500 million in assets,announced recently it will begin offering members a suite ofprivate student loan products.

Based in Appleton, Wis. and serving customers of Thrivent Financial, a 100-year-old member-owned financialservices firm, Thrivent FCU will offer fixed- and variable-rate educationloans, in addition to a flexible line of credit options. Thestudent loan programs reflect a commitment to help familiesidentify responsible college financing solutions, according toThrivent FCU President/CEO Todd Sipe.

“We're excited to bring our student loan solutions to currentand prospective members and their families,” Sipe said. ”Thesenew programs reflect our mission to provide competitive solutionsthat promote responsible borrowing for life.”

Thrivent FCU loan programs are currently available to studentsattending more than 1,200 schools nationwide. The credit unionutilizes loan origination provider Cology to ensure thatapplication, certification and disbursement processes follow theschool's preferred financial aid flow.