The Department of Repayment Success is available to support students and alumni of American National University with questions or concerns about student loan repayment. Whether you’re currently enrolled or have already graduated, our team is here to help you understand your options and navigate the repayment process.
If you’re experiencing challenges with federal student loan repayment or simply need clarification about your loans, we encourage you to reach out. The Repayment Success team is committed to providing guidance and ensuring your questions are fully addressed. Please contact us today.
Are you thinking about delaying your student loan payments through a deferment or forbearance?
If you’re facing financial challenges, postponing payments may offer temporary relief—but it’s important to understand how these options can affect your loan in the long run.
Deferment and forbearance are short-term solutions designed to prevent your loan from going into default when you’re unable to make payments. While they can pause required monthly payments under certain circumstances, interest may continue to accumulate during this time. In most cases, borrowers are responsible for repaying any interest that accrues, even while payments are suspended. The primary exceptions are subsidized Stafford loans and certain consolidation loans during approved deferment periods.
Because interest continues to build, using deferment or forbearance can extend the life of your loan and increase the total amount you repay over time. Making payments—when possible—is always the most cost-effective option, but if you’re unable to do so, these alternatives may help provide temporary support.
Before deciding, we encourage you to explore all available repayment options.
If you’re struggling to afford your student loan payments, don’t wait until you fall behind. The Department of Repayment Success is available to discuss your situation, explain your choices, and help you determine the best path toward successful loan repayment. Our team is happy to speak with you directly and provide personalized guidance.
If you… | Then… |
|---|---|
| Have problems making payments when they’re due | Change your date. This can ensure you have money in the bank when it’s time to pay your bill. |
| Have multiple payments to multiple lenders each month | Consolidate your federal loans. Make one payment to one lender. Loan consolidation may reduce your monthly student loan payment. |
| Can make smaller monthly payments | Reduce your payments by changing payment plans through Alternative Payment Plans This can help reduce your monthly payments or allow you to make interest-only payments. |
| Can’t make any payments | Postpone payments with a deferment or forbearance Postponing your monthly payments may be the right choice to prevent your loan from entering default. |
Defaulted Loans
What Default Means for Borrowers
A student loan is considered in default once it is 270 days past due. At that point, the loan is officially declared in default, and the full outstanding balance becomes immediately due. Borrowers in default are no longer eligible for Title IV financial aid or for many repayment and relief options that may have been available previously.
Default can carry serious consequences, including negative reporting to all major credit bureaus, which can significantly impact your credit history. A portion of your wages may be garnished until the loan is fully repaid, and additional collection or attorney fees may be added to your loan balance. In some cases, the U.S. Department of Education may also intercept your federal tax refund to apply it toward your outstanding debt.
Access Counseling For Your Student Loan at no Additional Cost
provided by ANU to help with repayment.
IonTuition provides student loan counseling and payment planning. Receive guidance on various repayment plans, assistance with deferment or forbearance, three-way calling support with your servicers, and more.
Create Your Account: portal.IonTuition.com
Phone: 855-456-2656
Mon-Thurs: 7 am – 8 pm (CST)
Fri: 7 am – 5 pm (CST)
Email: advisors@iontuition.support