Completing additional education after high school has nearly become a prerequisite for a stable career and middle-class income. Yet the total cost of higher education continues to climb, increasing 31 percent at public institutions and 24 percent at private nonprofit institutions in ten years. Consequently, student loans will remain a reality for most students unless, and until, postsecondary education becomes universally accessible and affordable. The facts about the student loan debt crisis paint a stark picture, especially for historically underserved students and those who do not complete a degree. This brief presents 15 facts about student loan debt and describes what Congress can do to reduce it.