The Relationship Between Student Loan Debt and Financial Wellness

Abstract

With the rising cost of tuition, the burden of student loans on individuals and families is increasing. Using data from the National Financial Capability Study (NFCS), the researchers analyzed the relationship between financial wellness and the presence of student loan debt. Results from ordered logistic regression showed that holding a student loan was negatively related to financial wellness, but having a college degree (as compared to having a high school degree) was positively associated with financial wellness. It is important for a student to understand this and weigh the decision to borrow for college considering the costs and benefits.