The Department of Education confirmed it is exploring sales or other reforms to the federal student‑loan portfolio, including discussions about privatizing more than $1 trillion in loans. Undersecretary Nicholas Kent told lawmakers the agency has met with a variety of stakeholders but has made no final decision, keeping the possibility of a sale or public‑private arrangement alive. The disclosure prompted swift pushback from advocates and some lawmakers who warn privatization could raise borrowing costs and complicate borrower protections. Supporters argue a sale could modernize servicing and reduce taxpayer risk if structured with consumer safeguards. The announcement comes amid a broader federal push to remake higher‑education oversight and accreditation, driven by the White House and allied governors. That broader agenda—tracked by higher‑education observers—includes new accreditor rules, state-level reforms, and shifts in federal funding priorities that together could reshape institutions’ finances and accountability.