1. Define default as used in the article.

2. How many Americans currently hold federal student loans?

3. What percent/number of Americans with student loans are in default?

4. List the consequences of defaulting on a student loan.

5. What is a good way to avoid defaulting on your student loan, according to Mark Kantrowitz?

6. How do lawmakers propose helping students who are having trouble paying back their student loans?

7. Many people make the incorrect assumption that they do not have to repay their student loans if they declare bankruptcy. Unlike most other debt, you cannot get rid of your student loan debt by declaring bankruptcy. What is the maximum student loan you think you can afford to repay based on your career choice? List several ways a student could avoid graduating college with a huge student loan debt.

CHALLENGE: It is important to make a plan before you start college. The Income-Driven Repayment Plans will help you out should you find yourself in trouble, but not getting into a huge amount of debt is the best plan. Starting out life with a 20 year debt is not the way to go. Ask a few adults you know if they are in a student loan debt and how they view taking out a student loan that is difficult to repay.