2025-2026 Federal Student Loan Rates

2025-26 Federal Student Loan Interest Rate
Decreases For the First Time in Years

The Federal Direct Student Loan interest rates for 2025-26 have been determined by the government, and there will be a small decrease following a slight increase from last year.  This change will be applied to new federal loans disbursed between July 1, 2025, and July 1, 2026. The chart below demonstrates the decrease year-over-year from last year.

Student loan interest rates determine how much money you’ll ultimately owe and will also influence your monthly payment. Calculate how much you need and compare interest rates before taking out a loan, to ensure your debt will be manageable once you graduate.