As of 2026, total student loan debt in the United States stands at roughly $1.7 trillion, with about 43 million borrowers carrying an average balance of around $37,000. This debt affects millions of families, and understanding the numbers can help you make informed decisions about college and repayment. In this guide, we break down the latest figures, compare debt levels by degree type, and offer practical steps to manage your loans.
Total student loan debt in the US
The $1.7 trillion figure includes both federal and private student loans. Federal loans make up the vast majority—about 92% of all student debt—while private loans account for the rest. This total has remained relatively stable over the past few years, as the pause on federal loan payments and interest ended in late 2023, and borrowers resumed payments.
To put it in perspective, the average borrower owes about $37,000, but that number varies widely by age, education level, and type of institution. For example, older borrowers (ages 35-49) often carry higher balances because they borrowed for graduate school or took longer to repay.
Average debt by degree type
Not all student debt is the same. The amount you borrow depends on the degree you pursue and the school you attend. Here is a breakdown of average debt at graduation for different degrees:
| Degree Level | Average Debt at Graduation (2024-2025) |
|---|---|
| Associate degree | $20,000 |
| Bachelor’s degree | $30,000 |
| Master’s degree | $50,000 |
| Professional degree (e.g., law, medicine) | $100,000+ |
These figures are based on federal data and reflect the average for students who borrowed. Keep in mind that many students graduate with no debt at all—about 40% of bachelor’s degree recipients do not borrow.
Who holds the most student debt?
Student loan debt is not evenly distributed. Certain groups carry more debt than others:
- Graduate and professional students owe about 50% of all outstanding student debt, even though they represent only 20% of borrowers.
- Borrowers aged 35-49 hold the largest share of debt, totaling over $600 billion.
- Women hold about two-thirds of all student debt, partly because they attend college at higher rates.
- Black borrowers default at higher rates and owe more on average than white borrowers.
Understanding these patterns can help you see where you fit and what options you might have.
How much debt is too much?
A good rule of thumb is to keep your total student loan payments below 10% of your monthly income. For example, if you earn $50,000 a year, your monthly payment should be under $416. But many borrowers have higher payments, which can lead to financial stress.
If your debt exceeds your expected starting salary, you may want to consider more affordable college options or pursue scholarships and grants. Federal loans also offer income-driven repayment plans that cap your payment at a percentage of your discretionary income.
Actions to manage your student debt
If you already have student loans, here are steps you can take to stay on top of them:
- Log into your loan servicer’s website to see your exact balance and interest rate.
- Enroll in an income-driven repayment plan if your payments are too high.
- Set up autopay to get a 0.25% interest rate reduction and avoid missed payments.
- Consider making extra payments toward the loan with the highest interest rate to save money over time.
- Apply for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) if you work for a government or nonprofit employer.
Taking these steps can reduce your total interest and help you pay off debt faster.
Future outlook for student debt
As of August 2026, the Supreme Court struck down the Biden administration’s broad loan forgiveness plan in 2023, so no widespread cancellation is currently in effect. However, the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan, a new income-driven repayment option, is being implemented and may lower monthly payments for many borrowers. The plan is currently in legal limbo, so check the latest news from the Department of Education.
Colleges are also being required to provide clearer cost information, which may help future students borrow less. Still, the total debt is unlikely to drop significantly in the short term.
Summary
Student loan debt in the US totals about $1.7 trillion, with the average borrower owing $37,000. Your personal number depends on your degree, school, and repayment choices. The key is to borrow only what you need, understand your repayment options, and take proactive steps to manage your loans. By staying informed and using tools like income-driven plans, you can keep your debt under control and work toward financial stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the average student loan debt per person?
The average borrower owes about $37,000 in student loans, but that number varies by degree and age.
What is the total student loan debt in the US?
Total student loan debt in the US is around $1.7 trillion, held by about 43 million borrowers.
How much student loan debt do most people have after college?
Most bachelor’s degree graduates who borrowed owe between $20,000 and $30,000, while graduate degrees can exceed $50,000.
Is student loan debt increasing or decreasing in 2026?
The total debt has remained relatively stable in recent years, with no major increase expected in 2026.
What is a manageable amount of student loan debt?
A manageable amount is one where your monthly payment stays under 10% of your income, so aim to borrow less than your expected starting salary.
