Student Loan Repayments: What You Need to Know

Student loan repayment plans continue to evolve in 2025, with ongoing legal, political, and administrative changes creating uncertainty for millions of borrowers. While some programs remain in place, others are on hold and at risk of being rolled back. Read on for a summary of what you need to know. You can also create a free account with Savi, NASW's student debt partner, to stay up to date with the latest information.

Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) & SAVE Plan

Borrowers can access income-driven repayment (IDR) plans, which set monthly payments based on discretionary income and family size.

The Biden administration's Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) repayment plan, rolled out to student loan borrowers in mid-2023, was designed to offer more generous terms and potential loan forgiveness. This IDR plan has since been blocked by federal courts and is on hold, and borrowers enrolled in the plan have been placed in temporary forbearance with their student loan payments paused. Unfortunately, this period does not count toward Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), which may impact long-term forgiveness timelines. With ongoing legal challenges and shifts in federal policy, the future of the SAVE plan remains uncertain and may be rescinded under the current administration.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

For borrowers working in public service roles, like many NASW members, the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program remains a critical option. Under PSLF, borrowers can have their remaining student loan balance forgiven after making 120 qualifying payments while working for a government or nonprofit employer for at least 10 years. To qualify, borrowers must be enrolled in a qualifying repayment plan (such as IDR), work full-time for a qualifying employer, and ensure their employment is certified with the Department of Education.

While PSLF is still in place, recent developments in federal policy could impact future eligibility or changes to the program. Borrowers should stay informed about any changes affecting their progress toward forgiveness.

Potential Changes on the Horizon

The landscape for student loans remains uncertain under the Trump administration. Since President Trump's inauguration in January 2025, his administration has signaled potential shifts in federal student loan policy. Recent executive orders may impact the future of Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) and the Department of Education. The order titled “Restoring Public Service Loan Forgiveness” is aimed at restricting eligibility by excluding organizations allegedly involved in "substantial illegal" activities. The executive order “Improving Education Outcomes by Empowering Parents, States, and Communities” focusing on the dismantling of the Department of Education, could decentralize federal control over student loan programs, giving states and local governments more power.

Any major changes to these programs and the Department of Education would require congressional approval. With so much change, Savi is encouraging borrowers to use their new download and save feature to keep track of all their student loan information.

If You Need Help Navigating New Student Loan Repayment Programs

If you are concerned about your eligibility under new programs, or about your ability to make your payment, you can explore personalized repayment options using the NASW Savi tool at NASW.bySavi.com. NASW partnered with Savi, a student loan technology company that provides resources and expertise to help members understand, manage, and repay student loan debt.

The free Savi Student Loan Tool analyzes your repayment options and forgiveness programs to help you find your best solution. By completing a free application, you can see the repayment plans you qualify for and which are most affordable, and explore your options for loan forgiveness. If you purchase an Essential account, Savi also provides individual one-on-one support at a steeply discounted rate for NASW members.

The goal is to take the stress out of managing your student loans. NASW member Gregory P. said, “With SAVI's help, I stopped worrying. I was being guided through the process by a knowledgeable team who would help me every step of the way. And every cent of the debt I had been carrying around for many years was forgiven. It is life-changing.”

After working with Savi, Gregory received almost $77,000 in loan forgiveness!  Another NASW member, Rodney W. says, “I genuinely feel more knowledgeable about my student loans and options; having SAVI available helps relieve some of the stress.”

Meanwhile, NASW Continues to Work for Policy Level Solutions 

While Savi and other student loan calculators provide practical help for individual borrowers, NASW continues to advocate for policy changes concerning student debt. NASW actively monitors opportunities to make progress, having achieved a significant victory in securing the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) waiver. NASW participates in the PSLF coalition, maintains a close partnership with the Student Borrower Protection Center, and supports student loan debt relief through various avenues, including forgiveness, cancellation measures, employer-sponsored relief, and scholarships. Expanding PSLF eligibility to include social workers employed by nonprofits and for-profit organizations is a key objective. Through continuous monitoring, strategic partnerships, and active engagement, NASW remains committed to addressing student debt challenges and advocating for social workers' needs.

Learn how NASW advocates for and supports student debt relief efforts for social workers in all settings. 

And visit Savi to see how this service can help you navigate loan repayment and confirm whether you are eligible for student loan forgiveness.