Navigating the Storm of Student Loan Changes

Nearly 43 million Americans have federal student loan debt. Their borrowing totals more than $1.8 trillion. That’s according to the Education Data Initiative.

Now, the federal student loan system is facing significant changes under the Trump administration.

One of the biggest differences is the end of the Saving on a Valuable Education, or SAVE plan, started by President Joe Biden. The income-driven program offers low monthly payments and an expedited path to loan forgiveness. 

Republicans challenged the plan in court where it’s still tied up, leaving the 7.7 million enrollees in limbo.

How is the Trump administration overhauling the federal student loan system? And what does this mean for the tens of millions of current and future borrowers?

Find more of our programs online. Listen to 1A sponsor-free by signing up for 1A+ at plus.npr.org/the1a. 

Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices

NPR Privacy Policy