Skip to main content
An official website of the United States government
(855) 411-2372
Submit a Complaint

How does interest accrue while I am in school?

For subsidized federal student loans, interest is paid on your behalf by the U.S. government while you’re in school. For most other loans, interest accrues on a monthly or quarterly basis. 

That interest is then “capitalized,” meaning that it is added to your unpaid loan principal balance on a schedule. Consult your lender for details about interest on your student loans.

Take the next step

Paying for College

Whether you’re attending college soon, are a current student, or already have student loans, we’ve put together some tools and resources to help you make the best decisions for you.

Visit our "Paying for College" guide 

Don't see what you're looking for?

Browse related questions

Was this answer helpful to you?

Please do not share any personally identifiable information (PII), including, but not limited to: your name, address, phone number, email address, Social Security number, account information, or any other information of a sensitive nature.