Home » News & Publications » Financial Fridays » 10-17-2008 National Council of Higher Education Loan Programs

National Council of Higher Education Loan Programs

WHAT WE DO:

Based in Washington, D.C., the National Council of Higher Education Loan Programs (NCHELP) represents a nationwide network of guaranty agencies, secondary markets, lenders, loan servicers, collection agencies, schools, and other organizations involved in the administration of the Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP). NCHELP members promote student access and choice for postsecondary education and training. Over the past 40 years, FFELP participants have provided more than $650 billion in student loans and a range of services and materials to increase awareness about college opportunities, financial aid, and financial literacy.

WHAT WE OFFER:

Financial Literacy Materials and Programs

NCHELP members provide detailed information to students, schools and community organizations about budgeting, credit cards, saving and paying for college, responsible borrowing, the risks of identity theft, and understanding credit scores. These brochures, guidebooks, planners and CDs are offered at no charge. In addition to creating customized financial literacy programs and materials, members develop entrance and exit counseling for college students taking out student loans and provide default prevention programs that help protect borrowers' credit ratings.

Financial Literacy Curriculum

NCHELP members help create financial literacy curriculum so schools can teach students to manage time and money wisely while on campus and after they graduate. Some members have based their courses on school requests for a quality curriculum that is provided in a ready-to-use format. One member has supported the creation of a 14-module financial education program at a state university. NCHELP members also play key roles in helping to develop curriculum for states that require public schools to teach financial literacy education.

Financial Literacy Awareness

Part of the challenge in improving financial literacy is helping students, families and schools to understand why it is so important. NCHELP members work with partners throughout the state to host events, award scholarships and create materials that reinforce the critical need for financial literacy efforts.

WHAT WE NEED:

NCHELP members offer a range of financial literacy programs and materials. Our members would like to work with the rest of the financial literacy community to increase awareness and understanding about the importance of making sound financial decisions.

WHAT'S NEW:     

Federal Commitment to Financial Literacy 

In the recently passed Higher Education Opportunity Act, NCHELP members    are given the mandate to work with colleges and universities to develop programs and materials that teach students about budgeting and financial management. This legislation reinforces and expands the efforts by NCHELP members to offer financial literacy training to students and schools.

New Tools, Programs and Services

NCHELP members continue to expand their materials and services and work with more partners to improve financial literacy for students of all ages. Some members have transferred their curriculum to Web-based programs that offer customizable paths that students can pursue on their own and can be tailored to undergraduates, adult learners or graduate and professional students. Others offer free Webcasts to help financial aid administrators teach students to become more financially savvy. NCHELP members take advantage of today's tools to help students better manage their finances and are constantly looking for new ways to reach a broader audience.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Karen Lanning, VP Communications
202-822-2106
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