Making Sense of the New Cohort Default Rate
This week on "Off The Cuff," Maria is joined by Jill and Sarah to discuss the new cohort default rate (CDR) released by the Department of Education (ED) last week. Jill explains what this CDR means in context to borrowers returning to repayment after the Covid-19 payment pause. From there, Jill provides an overview of NASFAA's new Cohort Default Rate Web Center, and Sarah explains the identity verification process for the 2027-28 FAFSA following ED's release of its FAFSA fraud prevention initiative. Use our podcast feedback form to share your favorite OTC memory and let us know what you’d like to hear more of as we enter year 11.
Speakers
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| Maria Carrasco Reporter |
Sarah Austin Policy Analyst |
Jill Desjean Director of Policy Analysis |
Resources
- Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube
- Episode Transcript (PDF)
- OTC feedback form
- Cohort Default Rate Web Center
- Real-Time FAFSA Fraud Detection Live Webinar
- Real-Time FAFSA Fraud Detection and Identity Confirmation - Frequently Asked Questions
- 2027–28 FAFSA Specifications Guide
Send your thoughts, questions, and comments. We'd love to hear what you think.
Publication Date: 10/9/2026
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