Warning: Taking out new student loans or consolidating existing loans will be limited to the new tiered standard plan and RAP (extended 30-year forgiveness timeline). Learn more.

Find Your Student Loan Pathway

Student loan repayment has changed. Whether you’re leaving SAVE, exploring forgiveness, entering repayment, or dealing with default, use these tools and guides to find the most affordable path that’s right for you.

Begin with the basics. Watch this short overview to understand today’s student loan system, your repayment options, and the programs that may help make repayment more affordable.

Know The Important Dates

July 1, 2026

Major Repayment System Overhaul Begins

New federal loans and consolidations issued from this date forward are limited to just two repayment options: New Tiered Standard Plan and Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP).

July 1, 2026
September 30, 2026

SAVE Forbearance Ends (Some Borrowers)

Forbearance period ends for certain SAVE plan borrowers, requiring transition into active repayment.

September 30, 2026
July 1, 2027

New Limits on Forbearance & Deferment

Restrictions take effect limiting how long borrowers can pause payments through deferment or forbearance.

July 1, 2027
July 1, 2028

Deadline to Join Existing IDR Plans

Borrowers with older loans must enroll in current IDR plans (IBR, PAYE, ICR) before they are phased out.

July 1, 2028
July 1, 2028

Final Transition to New Repayment System

Full shift to the new repayment structure is completed; borrowers with older loans can no longer enroll in IBR, PAYE, or ICR.

July 1, 2028
July 1, 2028

PAYE & ICR Plans Converted

Borrowers in PAYE and ICR plans are automatically transitioned into the IBR plan.

July 1, 2028
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