Original article updated 2026-07-30. Retained for reference. Confirm current requirements with an appropriate provider or administering agency.
Direct answer
Yes, you can get a mortgage with student loans. The key issue is the monthly obligation the lender must count in your debt-to-income ratio. The calculation may use the payment on your credit report or another program-specific amount when the reported payment is zero, deferred, or based on an income-driven plan.
Why the counted payment can vary
Mortgage programs do not always treat student debt the same way. The underwriter may review the current statement, repayment plan, outstanding balance, and whether the payment is fixed, income-driven, deferred, or in forbearance. A lower reported payment does not automatically mean the debt can be ignored. The lender must follow the selected program’s current guidelines and document the obligation.
Plan around the full DTI calculation
Gather recent loan statements and confirm what payment will be used before setting a home budget. A mortgage preapproval can identify the counted amount early. Use the affordability planning guide to test the effect of student debt, and compare FHA loan treatment with conventional or other eligible options. Do not change repayment plans solely for a mortgage without reviewing the long-term consequences.
Frequently asked questions
Do deferred student loans count for a mortgage?
Usually yes. A program-specific calculated payment may be used even when no current payment appears on the credit report.
Should I pay off student loans before buying a home?
Not always. Compare the DTI benefit with lost savings, emergency reserves, down-payment needs, and the interest and terms on each debt.