I know and I think they can pay it sooner - if they want. I have a friend who is worth $100M+. He had his kids get student loans with zero interest until they graduated and he paid them in full. He even had one of his people write the check at the end of grace period before interest kicked in. I asked him why and his answer was always free money and/or "present value of money". Smart guy. For example - he took 2000 (year) dollars for 2000 (year) goods/service and paid for it with 2005/2006 money. His secretary handled the paperwork and probably saved 50% of his kids education costs. The rich get richer because they are smarter. Go ONCI

BTW - I paid for my 4 kids as the bills came in through 529s. I hate debt!