Student Loan Calculator
Calculate student loan payments, total interest cost, and payoff timeline. Compare standard, extended, and income-driven repayment plans.
Enter Your Details
Understanding Student Loan Repayment
Federal student loans offer several repayment plans. The Standard Repayment Plan (10 years) has the highest monthly payment but the lowest total cost. Extended plans (20-25 years) lower monthly payments but dramatically increase total interest.
Federal vs Private Student Loans
Federal loans (2025 rates: 5.50% undergraduate, 7.05% graduate) offer income-driven repayment, deferment, forbearance, and potential forgiveness. Private loans (4-14% depending on credit) offer fewer protections but may have lower rates for well-qualified borrowers.
Strategies to Pay Off Faster
Even $50-100/month extra dramatically reduces total interest. Target the highest-rate loans first (avalanche method). Consider refinancing private loans if rates have dropped. For federal loans, explore Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) if you work for a qualifying employer.