As backpacks get packed and syllabi start rolling in, fall isn’t just about fresh notebooks and pumpkin spice lattes, it’s also prime time to revisit your student loan strategy. With major changes to federal aid programs and repayment plans underway, young adults heading back to college this semester need to be sharper than ever about their financial future.
Here are four key things to check about your student loans this fall:
FAFSA Deadlines Are Closer Than You Think
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is your gateway to grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal loans. For the 2025–26 school year, the federal deadline is June 30, 2026, but many states and colleges have much earlier cutoffs.
💡 Tip: File as soon as possible, ideally by October 1, 2025, to maximize your chances of receiving aid before funds run dry.
Income Updates Matter More Than Ever
If you’re on an income-driven repayment plan like SAVE or IBR, your monthly payments depend on your reported income. With the SAVE plan phasing out and interest resuming as of August 1, 2025, updating your income is critical to avoid inflated payments.
💡 Tip: Use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool or opt into automatic income verification to stay current and avoid delays.
Know Your Repayment Plan Options
Big changes are coming. The Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) launches in July 2026, replacing many existing plans. RAP will cap payments between 1–10% of your income, but forgiveness only kicks in after 30 years.
If you took out loans before July 1, 2026, you may still qualify for IBR or other legacy plans, but you’ll need to act before July 2028 to avoid being auto-enrolled in RAP.
Interest Is Back — and It’s Growing!
After a long pandemic pause, federal student loan interest resumed this August. Even if payments are still deferred, interest is quietly accumulating. Borrowers on the SAVE plan could see balances jump by thousands annually.
💡Tip: Consider making interest-only payments now to prevent your debt from ballooning.
The best time to plan your prosperous financial future is today. Whether you’re just starting college or heading into your final year, understanding your loan options and deadlines can save you thousands and a whole lot of stress. Let’s tackle this semester with clarity, confidence, and a budget that works for you.
Stay tuned! We got you!
GabrielTeam
