VantageScore
VantageScore is a competing credit-scoring model jointly developed by the three major credit bureaus. Also runs 300 to 850.
Full definition
VantageScore is a credit-scoring model jointly developed by the three major U.S. credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) as an alternative to FICO. It also runs 300 to 850 but weighs the underlying factors slightly differently. The two scores typically land within 20 to 50 points of each other for the same consumer.
- Written by
- Get Advance Loan Editorial Team
- Reviewed by
- Compliance Review
- Published
- January 15, 2026
- Last reviewed
- May 22, 2026
- Credit scoreA three-digit number (typically 300 to 850) summarising your credit history. Lenders use it to predict the likelihood you'll repay.
- FICO scoreFICO is the credit-scoring model used in roughly 90% of U.S. lending decisions. Scores range from 300 to 850.
- Credit reportA record of your credit history maintained by the three U.S. credit bureaus. You're entitled to one free copy per year from each bureau.
- Soft credit inquiryA credit check that does not affect your credit score. Used for pre-qualification and rate-shopping.
- Hard credit inquiryA credit check that may lower your credit score a few points and remains on your credit report for up to 24 months.
- Debt-to-income ratio (DTI)Your monthly debt payments divided by your gross monthly income. Lenders use DTI to assess how much new debt you can afford.
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