Student loan oversight gaps could affect millions of borrowers and reshape how colleges support students navigating repayment.

Watchdog Warns Millions of Student Loan Borrowers Could Receive Incorrect Bills

A new Government Accountability Office report found the U.S. Department of Education halted key oversight of student loan servicers in 2025. Without routine monitoring, errors in billing and repayment tracking could affect millions of borrowers. The oversight pause comes as federal repayment systems undergo major changes, increasing the likelihood of confusion or mistakes. Critics argue the lack of accountability leaves borrowers vulnerable and complicates the already challenging student loan landscape.

Key Takeaway: Weak oversight of student loan servicers could lead to widespread repayment errors affecting millions of borrowers and the institutions that support them.

Common App Data Shows College Applications Continue to Rise

New data from the Common Application shows that the number of students applying to college continues to increase. Applicants are also submitting more applications per student, signaling growing competition and shifting admissions strategies. At the same time, fewer international applications are being submitted and more students are choosing to report standardized test scores again. The trends suggest admissions offices may face larger applicant pools while navigating changing demographics and testing policies.

Quick Insight: Rising application numbers mean admissions teams must adapt to larger and more complex applicant pools.

Black Students Are the Fastest Growing Demographic Among College Applicants

New reporting on Common App data shows that Black students are currently the fastest growing demographic group applying to college. The increase reflects broader outreach efforts, expanded access programs, and improved college advising in some communities. While the growth is encouraging for diversity goals, experts note that access must be paired with strong retention and completion strategies. Colleges may need to invest more heavily in support services to ensure these students succeed once enrolled.

Key Insight: Increasing applications from Black students signal progress in access, but institutions must focus on retention and student success.

Holistic Support Programs Boost Community College Student Outcomes

New research highlighted by Inside Higher Ed shows that comprehensive student support services can significantly improve community college outcomes. Programs that combine advising, financial assistance, and mentoring have helped students persist and complete degrees at higher rates. The findings reinforce the importance of addressing academic and nonacademic barriers simultaneously. Many colleges are exploring these models as a way to improve retention and completion.

Takeaway: Integrated student support programs are proving to be one of the most effective ways to improve community college completion.

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Published: March 13, 2026