SoFi vs Upstart Personal Loans Compared (2026)
SoFi lends larger amounts. Upstart looks beyond the credit score and publishes a wider APR range.
Facts checked against company pages on October 5, 2026 · Financialist may earn a commission from partner links later; it does not change this comparison. How we make money
| SoFi | Upstart | |
|---|---|---|
| Loan amounts | $5,000 to $100,000 in most states | $1,000 to $75,000 (state minimums may apply) |
| Terms | See SoFi rate page for current terms | 3 or 5 years, fixed rates |
| APR range published | See SoFi rate page (examples shown for a $30,000 loan) | 6.3% to 35.99% APR |
| Origination fee | Some options have no origination fee; others carry a one-time fee | May apply, depending on terms and state; deducted from proceeds |
| Rate discounts | 0.25% autopay discount; 0.25% Direct Pay discount if 50% or more of proceeds go straight to creditors | None listed on its personal loan page |
| Funding speed | Most approved borrowers get funds the same day if the agreement is signed by 5:30 PM ET on a business day; not guaranteed | Funds as fast as 24 hours after approval |
| Prepayment penalty | Confirm in your loan agreement | None |
| Financialist editorial scorecard | Rates 4.7, fees 4.9, funding speed 4.7, borrower experience 4.8 | Rates 3.9, fees 4.0, funding speed 4.6, borrower experience 4.4 |
SoFi: pros and cons
Pros- Larger loans, up to $100,000
- Autopay and Direct Pay rate discounts
- Some options with no origination fee
- Best rates assume strong credit
- Same-day funding is not guaranteed
Upstart: pros and cons
Pros- Considers factors beyond credit score, such as education and employment
- No prepayment fees
- Funds as fast as 24 hours
- APR can reach 35.99%
- Only 3 and 5 year terms
- Origination fee may apply
Our take
Check SoFi first if you have good credit and want a larger loan. Check Upstart if your credit file is thin or damaged, or if you want money quickly. Prequalify with both: each shows a rate without affecting your credit score. Compare the APR, not the monthly payment.
Full ranking: Best personal loans · How we rank · All comparisons
Sources checked
- Upstart: personal loans
- SoFi: personal loans
- SoFi: personal loan rates and terms
- SoFi support: basics of a personal loan
Prices, rates and terms change. Confirm on the company's site before you buy or apply. Financialist publishes general information, not financial or legal advice.