Student loan refinance rates have held steady throughout the first part of 2026 as the Fed has held interest rates steady. As of June 4, 2026, student loan refinance lenders are offering fixed rates as low as 3.

The changes will affect how much students and their parents can borrow, as well as their repayment options.

After being told for years to consolidate federal student loans, we are now entering a period during which federal student loan consolidation may be a very big mistake.

Starting July 1, millions of borrowers will need to choose from a new menu of repayment options as the Trump administration enacts major changes to the student loan system.

A wave of federal student loan changes lands next month, and asking the right questions now could save you money.

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Adam Minsky is an attorney and writer focusing on student loans. From repayment, to collections, to loan forgiveness, student loans have been buffeted by major changes during the last year.

Jen Smith is a personal finance expert specializing in student loans, paying off debt, and investing. When she's not writing she's the co-host of the award-winning Frugal Friends Podcast. damircudic / Getty Images The interest rate on a federal ...