Communicating with Legislators: Sample Letter to Congress

Date

The Honorable (Full Name)
Address

Dear Senator/(Mr/Ms.):

I am writing to you to ask for your support for several improvements to the federal student loan program.

Financing a college education today is a significant expense for students and their families, yet there is no better investment. Over a lifetime, college graduates earn, on average, more than $1 million more than individuals with high school degrees.

Federal student loans are a critical source of college financial aid. These loans offer better terms than any other source of loans in the consumer marketplace. However, I was surprised to learn that borrowing limits on federal student loans have not changed since 1992 and freshman loan limits have essentially been unchanged since 1972. I recognize that the ideal option would be to simply increase grant aid to all students who have a financial need. However, limited federal budget resources will mean a continued need for federal student loans.

I urge you, as part of the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act, to strongly consider increasing federal student loan limits. Every student who wants to attend college should have the financial tools they need, regardless of their personal financial circumstances. Students would be better served if they had greater access to less-expensive federal loans that carry the lowest available rates and the best available terms.

Other improvements to the federal student loan program would result in increased access to higher education for America's children. Students should be given relief from origination fees and improved repayment options that offer them greater flexibility as they enter the workforce. In addition, those graduates who choose to enter lower-paying, high-need career fields, such as teaching in low-income areas, should be forgiven from at least some of their loans, especially if they are carrying a heavy debt load.

Today more than ever, education is the key to success. Every student should have the opportunity to pursue a college degree. The key to achieving this goal is a healthier federal student loan program.

Sincerely,

Name
Title
Address