Insider Tips for the week of July 12, 2025

New student loan rates – The Dept of Education announced the updated student loan rates for the 2025-26 school year, which go into effect on July 1.

Undergraduate Direct Loans: 6.39%

Graduate Direct Loans: 7.94%

Parent PLUS Loans: 8.94%

Crazy New Wrinkle to College Admissions – Jeff Selingo explains a new phenomenon of last-minute deal making, resulting from the changing climate of higher ed.

3 Ways to Prepare for Competitive College Application Season – Summer, with its lighter schedule and fewer distractions, is a perfect time to talk with your student about college applications. Check out Christopher Rim’s 3 tips to keep in mind.

Recent College Grads Are Discovering That a STEM Degree Doesn’t Guarantee a Stable Job – Money Magazine highlights an interesting trend that bears watching, according to recent employment numbers from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

Campus Profile: University of Kentucky – CIT’s Anne Weber shares observations from her recent college visit to the University of Kentucky.