The U.S. Department of Education confirmed exploratory talks about selling portions of the federal student‑loan portfolio to private investors, telling Sen. Elizabeth Warren the idea remains under discussion. In a letter, undersecretary Nicholas Kent said officials have met with stakeholders about reforms but have made no final decision. The revelation renews concern across higher education about potential impacts on borrower protections, servicing continuity and loan forgiveness programs. University financial offices and student‑affairs teams are monitoring the talks for changes that could affect institutional counseling, default management and alumni relations.