A college degree remains one of the most reliable pathways to economic mobility. But by pricing women out of higher education, we risk reinforcing generational cycles of poverty, particularly in communities of color. This not only entrenches income inequality but also slows national economic growth.

The looming threat of eliminating subsidized federal student loans is projected to have a significant impact on women. Women currently hold about two-thirds of the nation’s $1.6 trillion student debt—roughly $929 billion in total . Any policy changes to student loan programs will disproportionately affect them.

Subsidized federal loans have long served as a crucial support system. With these loans, the government covers the interest while a student is enrolled, during their grace period, and during deferment. This feature helps keep education more affordable, especially for low-income students. If eliminated, borrowers would begin accruing interest immediately, making college more expensive.

Women not only take on more debt than men, but also face systemic challenges that make repayment harder. Upon entering the workforce, women earn, on average, just 81 cents for every dollar earned by men. This persistent gender wage gap stretches repayment timelines and compounds financial strain.

The impact is even more severe for women of color. Black women, in particular, carry the highest average student loan debt among all demographics—approximately $38,800 for undergraduate degrees and over $58,000 for graduate degrees. Despite higher levels of educational attainment, Black women frequently experience significant wage disparities, making it harder to climb out of debt.

The financial strain from the loss of subsidized loans can delay or derail major life milestones for women, such as buying a home, starting a family, or even saving for retirement. The combination of higher debt and lower income widens existing gender and racial wealth gaps.

This isn’t just a personal burden—it’s a societal loss.

When higher education becomes less accessible to women, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, society loses out on talent across vital sectors like healthcare, education, social work, and public service—fields where women are not only well-represented but essential.

Fewer women in college also means fewer women in leadership—whether in boardrooms, classrooms, or in Congress. Higher education is a key pipeline for influence and decision-making. When we restrict access, we also restrict representation and the development of policies that reflect the needs of a diverse population.