The average U.S. Graduate with student loan debt takes over a decade to fully repay their loans, according to wealth management firm Fidelity, a timeframe that highlights the growing burden of educational financing for Americans.
Fidelity Workplace Solutions offers a student debt program designed to help employees manage and reduce their student loan obligations, recognizing the impact of this debt on overall financial well-being and its influence on recruitment and retention efforts. The program aims to enhance employees’ financial health while simultaneously providing employers with a competitive advantage in attracting and keeping talent.
While federal student loans are not available to all seeking higher education in the U.S., particularly international students, options do exist. According to NerdWallet, international students typically need to rely on private lenders to finance their education. The availability of these private loans, and the terms offered, vary considerably.
NerdWallet’s February 2026 analysis of international student loan options notes that 19 student loan lenders have been reviewed and rated by their team of experts, assessing over 40 categories and more than 50 data points. The firm emphasizes its commitment to editorial integrity in its coverage of student loans, with content produced by writers and editors specializing in consumer lending.
The challenges faced by international students are distinct, as they generally do not qualify for the same federal aid programs available to U.S. Citizens and eligible non-citizens. Eligibility for federal loans is limited to those who meet specific criteria regarding immigration status.
Fidelity also provides a student debt dashboard and resources intended to help borrowers navigate their loan scenarios and manage their debt more effectively. These tools are part of a broader effort to address the financial challenges faced by individuals with student loans.
