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Average Student Debt

 

Though they're a necessary part of the financial aid package for most students paying for a college education, student loans must be repaid! The amount of debt a student carries can have a substantial effect on careers and lifestyles after college. Responsible borrowing includes keeping debt to the necessary minimum and being aware of debt levels while attending school.

 

Shown below are the average loan indebtedness figures for student borrowers who were enrolled at Southern Illinois University Carbondale during the 2004-2005 academic year.

 

  Class   Average Initial Debt When Loan(s) Enter Repayment
 
  Freshman   $ 2,739
  Sophomore   4,605
  Junior   7,027
  Senior   11,695
  Master's   24,690
  Professional   46,333
  Ph.D.   35,927

 

The average debt for students graduating spring 2007 was $17,925.