Student Loans: Who Is Struggling to Pay and Why? | The Pew Charitable Trusts

Our Work

Our projects are ambitious, consistent with a tested investment philosophy, and designed to reap measurable benefits for the public. Throughout our history, Pew has focused on impact—asking tough questions, seeking out evidence, working with strong partners, bringing unique interests together, and striving for effective solutions that address important issues.

Our affiliate Pew Research Center is focused around tracking important changes—using data-based research—to help policy analysts, government officials, and the public identify and prepare for future challenges.
Advance Health & Well-Being 40 Years of Investment in Innovative Science
Trust Magazine

Trust Article February 21, 2025
Insights & Perspectives

As part of our mission to inform the public, Pew experts offer nonpartisan, rigorous reports, research, and recommendations. We also share research findings, analysis, essays, and other insights in our magazines and podcast.

View All Insights
- Trend Magazine
  Trend focuses on policy issues in the United States and around the world and features...
- Trust Magazine
  Trust features articles on Pew's efforts to address the challenges of a changing world...
- After the Fact Podcast
  Pew's podcast provides data and expert analysis on the biggest challenges facing...
Sign Up

Receive our best conservation research bi-weekly—stunning photos, wins, and action alerts.

Email
About

For more than 75 years, we have used data to make a difference—addressing the challenges of a changing world by illuminating issues, creating common ground, and advancing ambitious strategies that lead to tangible progress.

Learn more about our affiliate Pew Research Center and its connection to our work.
Advance Health & Well-Being Looking Back on a Year of Milestones
Trust Magazine

Trust Article February 21, 2025

Podcast October 4, 2019

Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Pandora Download (MP3) Transcript (PDF) RSS New to podcasts?

Stat: 1 million—the number of Americans who default on student loan payments each year.

Story: More Americans are seeking higher education, which means more people are taking on—and struggling with—student loan debt. For one first-generation college graduate, the complex repayment system proved overwhelming. We share her story and talk to Chronicle of Higher Education reporter Eric Kelderman and Pew researcher Sarah Sattelmeyer about key challenges and potential solutions to help keep borrowers on track.

Related Resources:

5 Facts About Student Loans

Coordination Between Federal Agencies Would Help Millions Pay Back Student Loans

4 Things You Should Know About Student Loan Repayment

Who Struggles Most to Repay Student Loans?

Latest

More Episodes

Stay in touch

We want to hear from you. Reach us with your thoughts at [email protected] or @pewtrusts on Twitter. You can also rate our show or post a brief review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and anywhere else you listen or subscribe to the podcast.

MORE FROM PEW

Caribbean Partnership Key to Coastal Wetlands Conservation

How Lab-Grown Corals Restore Hong Kong’s Marine Ecosystems

Advanced Transmission Technologies

California Tribes Advance Marine Stewardship