Student Loan Archives

Banks often try to give the boot to graduating college students who hold low-fee checking accounts they’ve used for years. But smart grads know there are a few useful loopholes that allow them to keep the best features of their student bank accounts, and here are some of the best. Let’s begin with a few examples. Read more»

NEW YORK (AP) — Repaying a student loan could soon be a little less painful.Starting this week, anyone with a federal student loan can apply for a program, run by the Department of Education, that caps monthly payments based on income, and forgives remaining balances after 25 years. Those choosing to work in public service could have their loans forgiven after just 10 years. Read more»

By Libby Quaid -- AP Education WriterWASHINGTON (AP) — The Obama administration plans to simplify the federal college aid form, which at 153 questions drives millions of families to give up before they finish it.President Barack Obama wants to make the form much more user-friendly as part of a sweeping plan to put higher education within reach of more students. Read more»

In a tough job market, it’s no surprise that recent (and not-so-recent) college graduates may have trouble paying off school loans, but a new loan repayment program could help take off the pressure of debt. Read more»

When borrowing money, time is a commodity, too. Read more»

Now there is a new way for college students and alumni to connect online in an effort to help make tuition. Read more»

There are several federal programs that provide loans to students who demonstrate financial need and Federal Perkins loans are some of the most commonly utilized public funds. Named after former House of Representatives member Carl D. Perkins, these loans are offered at a low, fixed interest rate of 5%. These loans are backed by the government in case of default, which makes them much easier to obtain than many private loans. Read more»

By Candice Choi -- AP Personal Finance WriterNEW YORK (AP) — Graduating into a barren job market is stressful enough. When massive student loans await, the rite of passage can be downright terrifying.Depending on the type of loan, graduates typically have about six months before the bills start arriving. Among the matters to sort out as the clock ticks down: picking a repayment plan, consolidating loans, weighing deferments. Read more»

College graduates, who have an average of $22,000 in student-loan debt and face a bleak job market, are learning that a degree doesn't always pay for itself. Read more»