Why Graduated Repayment Is A Student Loan Trap
Graduated repayment costs $3,400 more than the 10-year Standard plan on a $35,000 loan, and early payments don’t count toward PSLF. Here’s what to use instead.
Find comprehensive information on federal student loans from the U.S. Department of Education.

Graduated repayment costs $3,400 more than the 10-year Standard plan on a $35,000 loan, and early payments don’t count toward PSLF. Here’s what to use instead.

PAYE caps payments at 10% of discretionary income and forgives the balance after 20 years, but the plan ends by July 1, 2028. Here’s who still qualifies, how to apply, and whether to move to IBR or RAP.

Calculate your RAP student loan payment in seconds. Enter your AGI and dependents to estimate your monthly payment under the Repayment Assistance Plan.

Did you get a call from Firstmark Services regarding your student loans? Is Firstmark Services servicing your student loans? Learn more here.

PSLF Buyback lets borrowers retroactively count past deferment months. Processing takes 60-90 days. Learn how it works and what delays to expect.

Master Promissory Notes (MPN) are legally-binding documents that all federal student loan borrowers must sign. Learn why they’re important!

Student loan entrance counseling is required before you can receive your first undergraduate or graduate federal student loan. Learn why.

Student loan borrowers stuck in SAVE face an upcoming deadline in late 2026 to change their repayment plans.

The U.S. Department of Education can settle federal student debt in certain situations that it’s deemed “uncollectable.” Learn more.

Interest rates on new Federal student loans are set to rise slightly for the 2026 – 2027 school year.

We break down the best college loans for parents, including parent student loans. Look at your options as well as some alternatives.
The College Investor® provides the latest news and analysis for saving and paying for college, student loan debt, personal finance, banking, and college admissions.