Student Loan Repayment
Student loan repayment for a Stafford student loan begins six months after you graduate, drop below half-time enrollment, or withdraw from school. Making timely payments will help you establish a good credit history and demonstrate to other creditors that you are a responsible borrower, a quality that can benefit you for many years into the future. You will generally have up to ten years to repay a Stafford student loan, and deferment, forbearance, and various repayment options are available if you meet certain requirements. Two of our most popular student loan repayment options are auto-debit, which automatically withdraws payments from your designated bank account each month, and online payment, which allows you to pay online at your convenience.
A Parent PLUS Loan is made directly to the parent, not the student, so responsibility for repayment rests with the parent. Repayment begins within 60 days of the final loan disbursement, unless you choose to postpone repayment while the student is in school at least half-time.
PLUS Loans made to graduate and professional student borrowers (GradPLUS) may be deferred during the six-month period that begins the day after the end date of a deferment during which the borrower was enrolled at least half time. Interest will continue to accrue on the loan during these periods.
Repayment Options
Deferment and Forbearance
Income-Based Repayment (IBR)
Change Your Payment Due Date
Total and Permanent Disability Discharge Information
How to Successfully Apply for Teacher Loan Forgiveness
Know What You Owe
Student Loan Repayment Calculator