Student Loan Interest Rates Are Dropping in 2025 — But Should You Wait?
Student Loan Interest Rates Are Dropping in 2025 — But Should You Wait?
The U.S. Treasury Department has announced that federal student loan interest rates will decrease slightly for the 2025-2026 academic year. While this shift is modest, it’s prompting many families to ask: Is this the right time to borrow?
2025-2026 Loan Interest Rates (Estimated)
- Undergraduate Direct Loan: 6.39% (down from 6.53%)
- Graduate Direct Loan: 7.94% (down from 8.08%)
- PLUS Loan (parents & grad students): 8.94% (down from 9.08%)
Rates apply to loans issued between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026. Existing loans remain unaffected due to fixed interest terms.
What It Means for Borrowers
These rate cuts translate to small monthly savings — around $113/month per $10,000 borrowed on a 10-year plan. While helpful, experts warn that federal forgiveness programs have tightened, making smart repayment planning more important than ever.
Learn How to Avoid Traps in Student Lending
Should You Delay Borrowing?
If you’re already committed to starting college in fall 2025, you won’t have much choice but to accept the available rate. However, now is a great time to:
- Compare federal vs. private loan offers
- Check co-signer options to lower private loan rates
- Consider borrowing less by adjusting your school list
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