Most lenders require a minimum FICO score in the fair-to-good range — roughly 580 to 670 — to approve a personal loan, though the best rates typically go to borrowers with scores of 720 or higher. There is no single federal minimum; each lender sets its own threshold.
There is no federally mandated minimum credit score for personal loans — lenders set their own standards. In practice, most lenders publishing minimum requirements start around 580 (the low end of the FICO "fair" range of 580–669). Borrowers in the "good" range (670–739) or above typically see lower APRs and access to larger loan amounts. Sub-580 scores are not automatically disqualifying at every lender, but rates will be significantly higher.
Lenders use risk-based pricing: the higher your score, the lower the interest rate offered. The Federal Reserve's G.19 report tracks the average 24-month personal loan rate at commercial banks (FRED series TERMCBPER24NS). Borrowers with scores in the 760–850 range may qualify for rates near the low end of the market, while borrowers in the 580–620 range can expect rates well above the average — sometimes exceeding 25–30% APR depending on the lender.
Credit score is one input, not the whole picture. Lenders also evaluate income and employment stability, existing debt obligations (your debt-to-income ratio), the purpose of the loan, and whether the loan is secured or unsecured. A strong income profile can sometimes offset a mid-range credit score, particularly at credit unions and community banks that use manual underwriting.