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Income-Sensitive vs. Income-Based Repayment Plans
Do you want to pay less now or qualify for forgiveness?
The Income-Sensitive Repayment (ISR) Plan and Income-Based Repayment (IBR) Plan are your two main options for unconsolidated FFEL loans. The ISR Plan might be a better choice if you have FFEL loans and a low-paying job, but expect your income to increase — like a medical resident. But the IBR Plan makes more sense if you’re looking for forgiveness or have Direct Loans.
How these federal repayment plans compare
| Income-Sensitive Repayment (ISR) Plan | Income-Based Repayment (IBR) Plan | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for... | Parent and student borrowers with FFEL Loans who want income-driven repayments for a few years | Student borrowers looking for income-driven repayments on FFEL Loans that haven’t been consolidated |
| Eligible loans |
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*Only qualify if consolidated with a Direct Consolidation Loan. |
| How much you pay |
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| Repayment Term |
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| Eligibility requirements |
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| Eligible for forgiveness at the end of the term | ||
| Eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness | ||
| Required to reapply each year |
Yes |
Yes |
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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If you’re not sure if either of these are right for you, compare other options with our guide to student loan repayment plans.
Interested in refinancing instead? Compare your options
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