Core Insights - The Federal Reserve's monetary policy significantly influences student loan interest rates, particularly through its adjustments to the federal funds rate, which affects borrowing costs across the economy [3][4][5]. Federal Student Loan Interest Rates - Federal student loan interest rates are set by Congress based on the 10-year Treasury note, with a fixed margin added each year. The 10-year Treasury yield is influenced by investor demand rather than the Fed's rate [6][10]. - For the 2025-26 school year, the fixed interest rates for federal student loans are as follows: Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans at 6.39%, Direct Unsubsidized Loans for graduate students at 7.94%, and Direct PLUS loans at 8.94% [17]. Private Student Loan Interest Rates - Private student loans are influenced directly by the prime rate, which moves in tandem with the Federal Reserve's rate decisions. As a result, when the Fed raises rates, private loan rates typically increase [8][9]. - Interest rates among private lenders can vary widely, with typical fixed rates ranging from 2.89% to 17.99% as of October 2025, depending on the lender and the borrower's creditworthiness [13]. Impact of Credit Scores and Co-signers - Federal student loans do not require a minimum credit score or co-signer, while private loans often necessitate a good credit score (mid-600s or higher) for approval. Higher credit scores lead to better loan terms [14][15]. Refinancing Considerations - Refinancing student loans can potentially lower interest rates or consolidate multiple loans into one payment. However, borrowers with federal loans should be cautious, as refinancing with a private lender results in the loss of federal benefits [19][20]. Conclusion - The Federal Reserve plays a crucial role in shaping student loan interest rates, with federal loans offering fixed rates that remain stable for borrowers, while private loans are more susceptible to market fluctuations [22][23].