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The Student Aid Index helps colleges determine how much financial aid you can get after filling out the FAFSA.

Undergraduates can borrow up to $57,500 in federal direct student loans. Starting in 2026, federal loan limits for graduate students and parents will change. Private loans usually max out at your school’s cost of attendance.

The Education Department has forgiven billions of dollars in student loans through existing programs. If you have federal debt and meet certain requirements, you may qualify.

The Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) student loan repayment plan has ended. Here's what you should know and next steps to take.

The federal student loan interest rate for undergraduates in 2026-27 is 6.52% starting July 1.

Start the loan refinancing process by researching lenders and comparing rates. Ultimately, you want a lower rate than what you currently pay.

Consider refinancing federal student loans only if you don't need federal benefits and can qualify for lower rates.

You can refinance your Sallie Mae loans with another lender, but Sallie Mae doesn't offer student loan refinancing.

With hundreds of articles and 30+ years of combined expertise, our team helps you make confident financial choices. Discover more from NerdWallet's writers and strategists.

Federal loans are available to undergraduate and graduate students, as well as to parents of students. If federal loans don’t cover the cost of college, you may be able to borrow private loans.


Unnecessary student loan debt relief services and debt relief scams have cost borrowers millions — and unsolicited calls, texts and emails are among the red flags to watch out for.


If your credit is making it tough to borrow private student loans, you can consider federal loans or a co-signer.


High school graduates heading to college in fall 2026 could borrow $43,000 in student loans for their bachelor’s degree.


How much you can take out in graduate school loans will be capped.


Parents planning on taking out parent PLUS Loans should expect the terms and limits to change on July 1, 2026.


Many borrowers on the popular Biden-era SAVE plan will be making payments for the first time in two years.


Numerous changes enacted by Congress and the White House will come into play. They have important implications for both new and existing borrowers.


Here's a rundown of what is — and isn't — changing as the Trump administration breaks up the ED.


A low income can make paying for college difficult, but you have options.


The Repayment Assistance Plan rolled out on July 1, 2026, replacing existing income-driven repayment plans for new borrowers.


Most borrowers have at least a year to figure out their next move. Grad students and parent PLUS borrowers will be most impacted.


Think long-term to pay off your grad school debt — or get it forgiven.


High school graduates this year could take on $40,000 in student loan debt to obtain their bachelor's degree.


PSLF isn’t going anywhere yet. For now, keep records of your payments and employment.


Trump's order to close the Education Department lacks specifics. Here's how borrowers can prepare for the unknown.


The PAYE and ICR student loan repayment plans are going away. Here’s your guide on what to do before the July 2028 deadline.


CRI is the newest federal student loan servicer. It can help you navigate your monthly bills, repayment plan and relief options. You can reach customer service at: 833-355-4311.


Federal student loan policy is evolving fast. For borrowers, both current and future, here’s what you need to know.


The FAFSA Submission Summary is a document that contains your financial aid eligibility and a summary of your FAFSA responses.
