New America's Response to Request for Information on Developing and Implementing a Common Manual for the Federal Direct Loan Program

The Department of Education (the Department) in September released a Request for Information (RFI) on developing and implementing a common manual for federal direct loan servicing. New America submitted our comments on October 8, 2025 outlining areas we believe the Department should prioritize when developing this set of standards. We believe that while the common manual is not a replacement for robust oversight, having such guidance in one place will provide clear direction for servicers and information for borrowers.