The U.S. Department of Education agreed to resume a broader set of student loan cancellations, clearing the way for more enrollees in income‑driven repayment plans to have remaining balances forgiven. The move follows litigation and regulatory pressure that paused some cancellation pathways and had left borrowers in limbo. Officials characterized the agreement as a win for struggling borrowers, while critics warned oversight and implementation details remain complex. Colleges and financial‑aid offices should prepare for renewed application activity and for federal guidance on eligibility and processing timelines.