Jeep Country Federal Credit Union of Holland, Ohio, has become the 100^th to sign on with the Smart Option Student Loan referral program offered by Corporate One Federal Credit Union since June through Sallie Mae.

"Corporate One has received a positive and overwhelming response to offering Sallie Mae's Smart Option Student Loan program, further confirming our decision to provide this solution to our members," said Paul Hixon, vice president of marketing and communications at the corporate.

The program is intended for students and families seeking private student loans to help them cover the cost of college after they have maximized scholarships, grants and federal assistance.

"With recent changes to the student loan landscape, Corporate One realized a student loan solution was needed so our members could cost-effectively serve their members who are saddled with paying the increasingly expensive price tag that goes hand-in-hand with higher education," Hixon said.

With the Smart Option Student Loan, students make payments while in school and graduate with less debt than those who make no payments until after graduation. The loans are underwritten, funded and serviced by Sallie Mae; participating CUs serve as a referral point via a link on their website. Sallie Mae provides comprehensive support and marketing materials.