Foundations of Student Loan Management

Student loans are a major financial commitment that shapes long-term planning. Sound understanding rests on the principles of loan types, repayment options, and forgiveness programs. This foundational course provides that base. By the end of this course you will be able to describe the main types of student loans, recognize the repayment options, identify the role of forgiveness programs, and understand the implications of consolidation and refinancing. What you will learn: - The main types of student loans including federal subsidized, unsubsidized, and private - The repayment options including standard, income-driven, and graduated plans - The role of forgiveness programs including public service loan forgiveness - The role of consolidation versus refinancing - The implications of forbearance and deferment - The role of co-signers on private loans - The signs that suggest consultation with a student loan counselor The course uses readings, principle summaries, case examples, and reflection prompts. Each module ends with applied exercises. The course is informational and does not substitute for licensed financial advice. This course is written for borrowers and prospective borrowers. By the end you will have replaced confusion about student loans with a structured understanding.