How is a standard student loan payment calculated?

Standard student loan repayment uses the amortization formula M = P[r(1+r)^n] / [(1+r)^n - 1], producing the same monthly payment for the full term. P is the loan balance, r is the monthly rate, and n is the number of months. The default standard term is 10 years (120 months).

What is a common repayment term for student loans?

The standard repayment plan typically uses a 10-year term, but extended plans can run 20 to 25 years. Longer terms produce smaller monthly payments and significantly more total interest.

Should I include capitalized interest in the loan amount?

Yes, if interest has accrued and been added to the principal. Enter the current loan balance, including any capitalized interest, as the loan amount. The calculator does not model deferment or income-driven plans.

Is my data shared with any server?

All math runs in your browser. Our servers are not involved at any point.

Student Loan Calculator

Calculate the standard monthly payment and total interest on a student loan. Enter the loan amount, annual interest rate, and repayment term. The tool applies the standard amortization formula with a 10-year (120-month) term by default and runs locally in your browser.

Loan type

Currency

Loan amount

Interest rate (% per year)

Term

Formula: M = P[r(1+r)^n] / [(1+r)^n - 1], where P = loan amount, r = monthly rate, n = months

Monthly payment

$296.75

Total interest: $10,610.53
Total paid: $35,610.53
Loan amount: $25,000.00
Number of payments: 120

Where your money goes over the loan term

Principal

Interest

$25,000.00 principal$10,610.53 interest

Calculations are estimates for informational purposes only. Consult a financial professional for advice.

How it works

The monthly payment uses the standard amortization formula M = P[r(1+r)^n] / [(1+r)^n - 1], where P is the loan amount, r the monthly rate (annual rate divided by 12) and n the number of monthly payments. With the starting values, 25,000 at 7.5% over the standard 120 months, the payment is 296.75 a month and total interest is 10,610.53.

Processing runs in your browser

Every calculation runs locally in your browser as JavaScript. Our servers are not involved at any point.

Calculations are estimates for informational purposes only. Consult a financial professional for advice.

Frequently asked questions

How is a standard student loan payment calculated?: Standard student loan repayment uses the amortization formula M = P[r(1+r)^n] / [(1+r)^n - 1], producing the same monthly payment for the full term. P is the loan balance, r is the monthly rate, and n is the number of months. The default standard term is 10 years (120 months).
What is a common repayment term for student loans?: The standard repayment plan typically uses a 10-year term, but extended plans can run 20 to 25 years. Longer terms produce smaller monthly payments and significantly more total interest.
Should I include capitalized interest in the loan amount?: Yes, if interest has accrued and been added to the principal. Enter the current loan balance, including any capitalized interest, as the loan amount. The calculator does not model deferment or income-driven plans.
Is my data shared with any server?: All math runs in your browser. Our servers are not involved at any point.

Last reviewed September 30, 2026

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