: On-time student loan payments build a strong credit history, which can help you qualify for lower mortgage interest rates.

: Enrolling in an IDR plan can lower your official monthly payment, which in turn lowers your DTI and may increase the mortgage amount you qualify for.

: Even if your loans are in deferment or forbearance (showing a $0 payment), lenders must still factor them into your DTI. They typically use a placeholder amount—often 0.5% to 1% of your total loan balance—to estimate your future monthly obligation. Credit Score :