Combine multiple federal student loans into one Direct Consolidation Loan with a single monthly payment, simplified management, and preserved forgiveness eligibility.
Combine multiple loans into a single monthly payment for easier management
Preserve eligibility for forgiveness programs and federal protections
Access to longer repayment periods and income-driven plans
We focus on federal consolidation to preserve your forgiveness options and federal protections
Federal Direct Consolidation combines your eligible federal student loans into one new loan with simplified payments and preserved benefits.
Replace multiple loan payments with one convenient monthly payment
Access to repayment periods up to 30 years for lower monthly payments
Weighted average of all consolidated loans, rounded up to nearest 1/8%
Federal consolidation doesn't require credit approval or cosigner
Maintain eligibility for PSLF, IDR forgiveness, and other federal programs
Access to all federal income-driven repayment plans
Continue to qualify for federal payment postponement options
Retain federal discharge protections for qualifying circumstances
Most federal student loans can be consolidated into a Direct Consolidation Loan
Private student loans cannot be consolidated into a federal Direct Consolidation Loan. Only federal loans are eligible for federal consolidation programs.
Consolidation isn't right for everyone. Here are scenarios where it might benefit you.
The federal consolidation process is straightforward and can be completed online through the Department of Education
Identify which federal loans you want to consolidate and gather loan information
Submit the Federal Direct Consolidation Loan Application online
Select a federal loan servicer for your new consolidation loan
Begin making payments on your new consolidated loan after processing
Interest Rate Calculation
New rate is weighted average of existing loans, rounded up to nearest 1/8%
PSLF Payment Count Reset
Consolidation resets PSLF payment counts to zero for included loans
Grace Period Loss
Consolidating loans in grace period ends the grace period
Cannot Split Loans
Must consolidate the full balance of each selected loan
Cannot Be Reversed
Consolidation cannot be undone once processed
Total Interest May Increase
Extended repayment terms may result in more total interest paid
Understanding the key differences between federal consolidation and private refinancing options
| Feature | Federal Consolidation | Private Refinancing |
|---|---|---|
| Interest Rate | Weighted average (fixed) | Potentially lower (fixed or variable) |
| Credit Check | Not required | Required |
| Federal Benefits | Preserved | Lost permanently |
| Forgiveness Eligibility | Yes (PSLF, IDR) | No |
| Income-Driven Plans | Available | Not available |
| Deferment Options | Federal options available | Limited private options |
Recommendation: Choose federal consolidation if you want to preserve federal benefits and forgiveness eligibility. Consider private refinancing only if you don't need federal protections and qualify for significantly lower rates.
Consolidation decisions can significantly impact your financial future. Our experts ensure you make the right choice.
Comprehensive review of your current loans and financial situation
Custom consolidation strategy aligned with your forgiveness goals
Expert assistance through the entire consolidation process
Don't let loan complexity overwhelm you. Our consolidation experts will analyze your situation, explain your options, and guide you through the process to achieve your financial goals.
Instead of Multiple
Maximum Repayment Term
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Expert loan analysis • Strategic consolidation planning • Preserved federal benefits