What are the federal student loan rates for 2025-26?

For loans disbursed July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026: Direct Subsidized/Unsubsidized for undergrads: 6.53%, Direct Unsubsidized for grad students: 8.08%, Direct PLUS loans for parents and grad students: 9.08%. These are fixed for the life of the loan.

Should I refinance my federal student loans?

Refinancing federal loans with a private lender can lower your rate but permanently forfeits federal benefits: income-driven repayment plans (IDR), Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), deferment/forbearance, and loan discharge options. Only refinance if you're confident you won't need these protections.

What credit score do I need to refinance student loans?

Most private lenders require a credit score of 650+, with the best rates (sub-5%) going to borrowers with 720+ scores. A steady income, low DTI, and graduation from an accredited institution also improve approval odds.

Student Loan Refinance Calculator 2025 — Federal Rates 6.53%, 8.08%, 9.08%

Use this student loan refinance calculator to see how much you could save by refinancing at a lower interest rate. Enter your current loan balance and rate, then compare against a potential new rate. The calculator shows your new monthly payment, monthly savings, and total lifetime interest savings. Important: refinancing federal loans with a private lender permanently eliminates access to income-driven repayment, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and federal forbearance — weigh these benefits carefully before refinancing.

🎓 Loan Details

Loan Type

Current Loan Balance

Current Interest Rate 2025

Remaining Term

years

New Refinanced Rate

New Loan Term

years

Annual Income

Used to estimate IDR payment alternative

🎓

Enter your loan details to compare refinancing options and calculate your savings.

Frequently Asked Questions

For loans disbursed July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026: Undergrad: 6.53%, Grad: 8.08%, PLUS: 9.08%. These are fixed for the life of the loan and set annually based on the 10-year Treasury yield plus a statutory add-on percentage.

Refinancing federal loans with a private lender permanently eliminates: Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) plans, Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility, federal deferment and forbearance, and income-contingent repayment options. Only refinance if you have stable income and don't expect to need these safety nets.

Consider refinancing if: you have a stable high income, you don't qualify for PSLF, you have good credit (720+), the new rate is at least 1% lower, and you're not planning to rely on IDR. Compare the total interest savings against the loss of federal protections.

Student Loan Refinance Calculator

Frequently Asked Questions

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