The U.S. Education Department has issued a warning to hundreds of colleges regarding their low student loan repayment rates and is urging these institutions to strengthen measures against rising default rates. As nonpayment rates increase, the Department calls for immediate action from colleges to combat this alarming trend. Additionally, the NASFAA’s 2026 Leadership & Legislative Conference commenced with discussions on policy updates and strategies for addressing these critical issues. A Wednesday webinar also highlighted the importance of understanding cohort default rates and developing effective prevention strategies.