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    Student Loan Market

    ID: MRFR/BFSI/21276-HCR
    128 Pages
    Aarti Dhapte
    October 2025

    Student Loan Market Research Report By Loan Type (Federal Loans, Private Loans, Institutional Loans), By Loan Purpose (Undergraduate Loans, Graduate Loans, Professional Loans), By Repayment Status (In Repayment, In Deferment, In Forbearance, In Default), By Loan Term (10-Year Term, 15-Year Term, 20-Year Term, 25-Year Term), By Interest Rate Type (Fixed Rate Loans, Variable Rate Loans) and By Regional (North America, Europe, South America, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa) - Forecast to 2035

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    Student Loan Market Infographic
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    Student Loan Market Summary

    The Global Student Loan Market is projected to grow significantly from 2798.11 USD Billion in 2024 to 6808.93 USD Billion by 2035.

    Key Market Trends & Highlights

    Student Loan Key Trends and Highlights

    • The market is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.42 percent from 2025 to 2035.
    • By 2035, the market valuation is anticipated to reach 6807.7 USD Billion, indicating robust growth potential.
    • in 2024, the market is valued at 2798.11 USD Billion, reflecting a strong foundation for future expansion.
    • Growing adoption of digital financing solutions due to increasing demand for accessible education is a major market driver.

    Market Size & Forecast

    2024 Market Size 2798.11 (USD Billion)
    2035 Market Size 6808.93 (USD Billion)
    CAGR (2025-2035) 8.42%

    Major Players

    Sallie Mae, Navient, CommonBond, Discover Financial Services, SoFi, MPower Financing, Upstart, Nelnet, Prodigy Finance, Citizens Bank, PNC Bank, Earnest, Stilt, Wells Fargo, LendingClub

    Student Loan Market Trends

    The growing cost of higher education and the rising number of students pursuing degrees are driving the demand for student loans. Governments and private lenders offer various loan options to support students financially. One of the key market trends is the increasing emphasis on income-driven repayment plans, which consider borrowers' income and expenses when determining monthly payments. This trend aims to make student loans more manageable for graduates with lower incomes.

    Another important trend is the rise of alternative lenders in the student loan market. These lenders offer loans to students who may not qualify for traditional bank loans due to factors such as credit history or lack of a co-signer. Alternative lenders typically charge higher interest rates, but they provide an essential option for students who need additional funding. Furthermore, the increasing use of technology in the student loan industry simplifies the application and management of loans, making it more accessible and convenient for students.

    The Global Student Loan Market appears to be experiencing a transformative shift, driven by increasing demand for accessible education financing options and evolving regulatory frameworks that may reshape lending practices.

    U.S. Department of Education

    Student Loan Market Drivers

    Rising Education Costs

    The escalating costs associated with higher education are a primary driver of the Global Student Loan Market Industry. As tuition fees continue to rise, students increasingly rely on loans to finance their education. In 2024, the market is valued at approximately 2798.1 USD Billion, reflecting the growing financial burden on students and families. This trend is expected to persist, with projections indicating that the market could reach 6807.7 USD Billion by 2035. The increasing financial demands compel students to seek loans, thereby expanding the market and highlighting the necessity for accessible financing options.

    Market Segment Insights

    Student Loan Market Loan Type Insights

    The Student Loan Market includes Federal Loans, Private Loans, and Institutional Loans. Federal Loans: Federal loans are offered by the government and come with low interest rates and flexible repayment plans. Federal loans are the most common form of student loan which accounts for nearly 90% of the Student Loan Market revenue. In 2023, this segment was valued at USD 1,546.72 billion, and it is anticipated to reach USD 2,269.56 billion by 2032, expanding at a CAGR of 5.63%. Private Loans: Private loans are offered by banks and various other financial institutions.

    These loans come with higher interest rates as well as less flexible repayment plans as compared to federal loans. These will be the lesser common form of student loans. However, the segment is anticipated to experience substantial growth over the forecast due to the increasing cost of education and optional enrollment of an increasing number of students for higher education. In 2023, the segment was valued at USD 427.23 billion, and it is anticipated to reach USD 782.37 billion by 2032, expanding at a CAGR of 7.94%. Institutional Loans: Institutional loans are offered by colleges and universities to students.

    These loans are used to pay for the tuition fees and various other costs, along with room and board. These are the second least common source of student loans but are anticipated to experience moderate growth over the forecast period due to increasing enrollment in private colleges and universities. In 2023, the segment was valued at USD 385.38 billion, and by 2032, it is anticipated to reach USD 654.07 billion by 2032, expanding at a CAGR of 6.89%. The Student Loan Market is developing and may experience many growth parameters.

    They include the cost of education, optional enrollment of students and the growing importance of higher education. The market is also likely to experience a positive impact through the rising number of private loans and institutional loans. Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

    Student Loan Market Loan Purpose Insights

    The Student Loan Market segmentation by Loan Purpose helps in understanding the market dynamics of different loan purposes. The Undergraduate Loans accounted for the largest revenue share in 2023, due to the growing number of students opt higher education across the globe. However, the Graduate Loans segment is expected to register a robust CAGR during the forecast period due to the growing demand for specific education and to develop of professionalism among the students to get better employment opportunities.

    Additionally, the Professional Loans, which are designed for people interested in getting certified based on their experience, are also expected to grow. Understanding the specific needs and trends of each loan purpose helps in developing appropriate strategies and launching offers accordingly.

    Student Loan Market Repayment Status Insights

    The repayment status segment of the Student Loan Market provides insights into the different stages of loan repayment that borrowers are in. The four main categories within this segment are 'In Repayment', 'In Deferment', 'In Forbearance', and 'In Default'. As of 2023, the majority of student loan borrowers are 'In Repayment', accounting for approximately 60% of the total market. This segment is expected to continue to grow steadily in the coming years, driven by the increasing number of students taking on student loans and the rising cost of education.

    The 'In Deferment' segment refers to borrowers who have temporarily paused their loan payments due to financial hardship or other qualifying reasons. This segment is expected to remain relatively stable in the coming years, with a projected market share of around 15-18%. The 'In Forbearance' segment includes borrowers who have temporarily reduced or suspended their loan payments due to financial difficulties. This segment is expected to fluctuate depending on economic conditions, with a projected market share of around 10-12% in the coming years.

    The 'In Default' segment represents borrowers who have failed to make their loan payments for an extended period of time. This segment is expected to decline slightly in the coming years, thanks to government initiatives and improved loan repayment assistance programs, with a projected market share of around 5-7%.

    Student Loan Market Loan Term Insights

    The Student Loan Market is segmented by loan term into 10-Year Term, 15-Year Term, 20-Year Term, and 25-Year Term. Among these, the 10-year Term segment accounted for the largest market share in 2023 and is projected to continue its dominance throughout the forecast period. The 15-year Term segment is expected to witness significant growth over the coming years, owing to the rising popularity of extended repayment plans among students.

    The 20-year Term and 25-Year Term segments are also expected to grow at a steady pace, driven by the increasing number of students pursuing higher education and the rising cost of tuition fees. Overall, the Student Loan Market is expected to reach a value of USD 2,634.5 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 8.2% during the forecast period (2024-2030).

    Student Loan Market Interest Rate Type Insights

    The Interest Rate Type segment of the Student Loan Market is bifurcated into Fixed Rate Loans and Variable Rate Loans. Fixed Rate Loans held a larger market share in 2023, attributed to the stability and predictability of interest rates. However, Variable Rate Loans are gaining popularity due to their potential for lower interest rates, especially in a declining interest-rate environment. The Student Loan Market revenue for Fixed Rate Loans is projected to reach USD 1,345.1 billion by 2024, growing at a CAGR of 7.6%.

    On the other hand, the Variable Rate Loans segment is expected to witness a higher CAGR of 8.2%, reaching a market valuation of USD 1,014.2 billion by 2024. The increasing demand for flexibility and the potential for lower interest rates are driving the growth of the Variable Rate Loans segment.

    Get more detailed insights about Student Loan Market Research Report -Forecast till 2034

    Regional Insights

    The Student Loan Market is segmented regionally into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and the Middle East Africa. In 2023, North America held the largest market share, accounting for over 35% of the Student Loan Market revenue. Europe and Asia-Pacific are also significant regional markets, with market shares of around 25% and 20%, respectively. The market in South America and Middle East Africa is expected to grow at a faster rate in the coming years, driven by increasing demand for higher education and government initiatives to promote access to student loans.

    The Student Loan Market segmentation by region provides valuable insights into the specific market dynamics and growth potential of each region. By understanding regional segmentation, businesses can tailor their strategies to target specific markets and capitalize on growth opportunities. The data and statistics available on regional segmentation can assist market participants in making informed decisions and identifying potential areas for investment and expansion. Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

    Key Players and Competitive Insights

    Having occupied a significant part of the market, the major players in the Student Loan Market industry always try to find new opportunities to expand and increase their profitability. As a result, the leading Student Loan Market companies pay special attention to providing the target audience with innovative products and services corresponding to their needs and interests. Nowadays, the number of students who need loans to pay their tuition increases, so the Student Loan Market industry is likely to develop in the long term.

    At the same time, the number of competitive companies in the industry will also grow as new organizations will be willing to enter the market, and existing players will seek to expand their presence in the Market. Sallie Mae. The leader of the student loan market is Sallie Mae, the organization that has 40 million student and parent account customers, and as such, over 5 million customers pay for college educational credit. The company, which is rated as one of the best employers in the USA, offers competitive loans for undergraduate and graduate students and their parents.

    Flexible and rational interest rates for all sorts of loans and types of academic institution promotions, a wide net of students and colleges who may use the credit, and a set of additional services make Sallie Mae a convenient and reliable way to credit the education costs. The other Market leader is Navient, the biggest student loan servicing company in the USA, serving loans for about 12 million customers. Navient may be considered the leader of student loan service, as it services loans from the majority of lenders, including federal as well as private.

    The service is fast and effective and presupposes a student aid of any type, deferment, forbearance, and the use of multimode payment that works for the sake of its borrowing citizens.

    Key Companies in the Student Loan Market market include

    Industry Developments

    Current affairs and recent news developments in the Student Loan Market indicate a growing demand for student loans due to rising tuition fees and living expenses. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this trend, with many students facing financial hardship and relying on loans to continue their education. Governments worldwide are implementing various policies to address the issue of student debt, such as income-driven repayment plans and loan forgiveness programs. Additionally, private lenders are becoming increasingly active in the student loan market, offering competitive interest rates and flexible repayment options.

    Technological advancements are also shaping the market, with the emergence of online lending platforms and mobile applications streamlining the loan application and management process.

    Future Outlook

    Student Loan Market Future Outlook

    The Global Student Loan Market is projected to grow at an 8.42% CAGR from 2025 to 2035, driven by rising education costs, increasing enrollment rates, and innovative financing solutions.

    New opportunities lie in:

    • Develop tailored loan products for non-traditional students to capture emerging demographics.
    • Leverage technology for streamlined application processes and enhanced customer experience.
    • Form partnerships with educational institutions to offer integrated financing solutions.

    By 2035, the Global Student Loan Market is expected to exhibit robust growth, reflecting evolving educational financing needs.

    Market Segmentation

    Student Loan Market Regional Outlook

    • North America
    • Europe
    • South America
    • Asia Pacific
    • Middle East and Africa

    Student Loan Market Loan Term Outlook

    • 10-Year Term
    • 15-Year Term
    • 20-Year Term
    • 25-Year Term

    Student Loan Market Loan Type Outlook

    • Federal Loans
    • Private Loans
    • Institutional Loans

    Student Loan Market Loan Purpose Outlook

    • Undergraduate Loans
    • Graduate Loans
    • Professional Loans

    Student Loan Market Repayment Status Outlook

    • In Repayment
    • In Deferment
    • In Forbearance
    • In Default

    Student Loan Market Interest Rate Type Outlook

    • Fixed Rate Loans
    • Variable Rate Loans

    Report Scope

    Report Attribute/Metric Details
    Market Size 2024 2798.11 (USD Billion)
    Market Size 2025 3033.72 (USD Billion)
    Market Size 2035 6808.93 (USD Billion)
    Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) 8.42% (2025 - 2035)
    Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
    Base Year 2024
    Market Forecast Period 2025 - 2035
    Historical Data 2020 - 2023
    Market Forecast Units USD Billion
    Key Companies Profiled CommonBond, Discover Financial Services, Sallie Mae, SoFi, MPower Financing, Navient, Upstart, Nelnet, Prodigy Finance, Citizens Bank, PNC Bank, Earnest, Stilt, Wells Fargo, LendingClub
    Segments Covered Loan Type, Loan Purpose, Repayment Status, Loan Term, Interest Rate Type, Regional
    Key Market Opportunities DigitalizationEmerging Markets.IncomeDriven Repayment Plans.Fintech Partnerships.Artificial Intelligence
    Key Market Dynamics Rising tuition fees.Increasing government support.Growing awareness of financial aid.Changing demographics.Emergence of alternative lending.
    Countries Covered North America, Europe, APAC, South America, MEA

    FAQs

    What is the current size of the Student Loan Market?

    As of 2024, the Student Loan Market is valued at approximately USD 2798.11 billion.

    What is the projected growth rate of the student loan market?

    The student loan market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.4% between 2025 and 2034.

    What is the regional distribution of the student loan market?

    The Asia-Pacific region currently holds the largest share of the Student Loan Market, followed by North America and Europe. Emerging economies in Asia, such as China and India, are driving the growth in this region.

    What are the key applications of student loans?

    Student loans are primarily used to finance higher education expenses such as tuition fees, accommodation, books, and living costs. They enable students to access quality education and pursue their academic goals.

    Who are the major competitors in the student loan market?

    Key players in the student loan market include government agencies, banks, and private lenders. Some prominent names include Sallie Mae, Navient, and Discover Financial Services.

    What factors are driving the growth of the student loan market?

    Rising tuition fees, increasing student enrollment rates, and government initiatives to promote higher education are the primary drivers of the student loan market growth.

    What are the challenges faced by the student loan market?

    The student loan market faces challenges such as rising student debt levels, concerns over repayment affordability, and the potential for defaults.

    What are the trends shaping the future of the student loan market?

    Emerging trends include the use of technology to streamline lending processes, alternative financing options, and a focus on income-based repayment plans.

    How does the student loan market impact the economy?

    The student loan market contributes to economic growth by providing access to higher education, which leads to increased human capital and innovation.

    What are the ethical considerations surrounding student loans?

    Ethical concerns in the student loan market include issues such as predatory lending practices, lack of financial literacy among borrowers, and the potential for excessive debt burden.

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