Lenders usually assess your income, regular outgoings, employment, existing debts, credit history and the amount and term you request. Your credit file can affect both whether you are accepted and the interest rate offered, but each lender uses its own criteria. An eligibility checker may show your likelihood of acceptance and potential rates using a soft search, which should not affect your credit score; check whether this is stated before applying. Compare the representative APR, total amount repayable and fees, and only apply if the repayments are affordable.