Advice to Borrowers

The Project on Student Debt is a nonprofit focused on research and policy work. The Project on Student Debt does not offer legal or other advice to individual borrowers regarding their student loans. We regret that we cannot meet this need, and have provided the resources below in an effort to provide general information that addresses common questions. If you need advice or information, please see the information listed below, and visit our Links page for additional resources.

IBRinfo.org provides reliable independent information about Income-Based Repayment and Public Service Loan Forgiveness, two new federal programs to help make student loan repayment fair and manageable.

A Borrower's Guide to July 1, 2009
A guide to what college students, their parents, and people already repaying their federal student loans need to know about important changes taking place on July 1, 2009 that will be in effect until June 30, 2010.

Federal Student Loan Terms for 2009-10

The Top 10 Student Loan Tips for Recent Graduates
A list of the top ten things a recent graduate should know about their student loans and the repayment process. 

One-pager on IBR and Public Service Loan Forgiveness
A tip sheet for student loan borrowers about two important new loan repayment and forgiveness options.

Student Loan Options in a Tight Credit Market
A consumer guide to help prospective borrowers choose the right financing options.

Look Before You Leap: Student Loan Shopping Tips
Ground rules for evaluating a college’s loan recommendations, recognizing different types of loans, and shopping around for a good deal.

Comparing Student Loan Discounts
A guide to help compare the relative value of common discounts offered by federal student loan providers.

Questions to Ask About Private Loans
When federal, state, and institutional aid does not cover the cost of college, private loans can be an option. Here are some questions to help prospective borrowers understand what they're getting into.

Check out our Links page for helpful outside resources.

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