How much is a student loan payment per month?

A $25,000 loan at 6.5% over 10 years costs about $284 per month and roughly $9,000 in total interest. Longer terms lower the payment but raise total interest sharply.

Do extra payments on student loans help?

Yes - even $50 extra per month on a typical 10-year loan usually pays it off 1-2 years early and saves over $1,000 in interest, because extra payments hit the principal directly.

How much student loan debt is too much?

A common rule: total borrowing should stay below your expected first-year salary. Above that, repayment typically exceeds 10-15% of income and delays other goals.

Student Loan Calculator

The real cost of borrowing: monthly payment, total interest, and what even small extra payments save you.

Student Loan Calculator

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Educational estimate using standard amortisation. Real loans may have fees, variable rates, grace periods or income-based repayment options - check your loan terms. Not financial advice.

Three Numbers Every Borrower Should Know

Total interest, not just the rate. $25,000 at 6.5% over 10 years costs about $9,000 in interest – a third of the loan again.
The cost of stretching the term. Moving from 10 to 20 years cuts the monthly payment but roughly doubles the interest paid.
The power of small extra payments. Even $50 a month typically shaves 1-2 years off a 10-year loan.

Before You Borrow

Exhaust grants and scholarships first – they never need repaying. Start with our scholarship guide.
Compare federal/government loans against private ones – government loans usually have lower rates and far better protections.
Borrow for the degree, not the lifestyle: every $1,000 less borrowed is roughly $1,350 you keep later.
Estimate the full cost of your studies with the college cost calculator.

This page is general information, not financial advice.