Sallie Mae study shows families spend average $34,019 on college in 2025-26 academic year

• SLM published “How America Pays for College 2026,” showing 91% of families view college as a valuable investment.
• Average family spending rose to USD 34,019 in the 2025-26 academic year from USD 30,837 a year earlier.
• Income and savings funded 49% of costs; scholarships and grants covered 27%; borrowing accounted for 22%.
• Borrowing was used by 47% of families; 66% backed federal borrowing limits, citing concerns about cost inflation.
• FAFSA completion increased to 74% from 71%; 61% used scholarships, while 74% of non-users did not apply.

Disclaimer: This news brief was created by Public Technologies (PUBT) using generative artificial intelligence. While PUBT strives to provide accurate and timely information, this AI-generated content is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as financial, investment, or legal advice. SLM Corporation published the original content used to generate this news brief via Business Wire (Ref. ID: 202608121108BIZWIRE_USPR_____20260812_BW256848) on August 12, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained therein.