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Student Loan Crisis: Only 38% of Borrowers Repaying Debt

8/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Only 38% of 42.7 million U.S. student loan borrowers are actively repaying $1.6 trillion in debt.
Approximately 30% of borrowers are over 90 days late on payments, with some considering non-payment a form of protest.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon stresses the importance of accountability in repayment policies.
Many borrowers are prioritizing essential expenses, resulting in notable declines in credit scores.

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Story summary

Only 38% of 42.7 million U.S. student loan borrowers are actively repaying $1.6 trillion in debt.
Approximately 30% of borrowers are over 90 days late on payments, with some considering non-payment a form of protest.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon stresses the importance of accountability in repayment policies.
Many borrowers are prioritizing essential expenses, resulting in notable declines in credit scores.