Could borrowers see their debts wiped out if the DOE ceases to exist, or would they simply find themselves under new management?

Efforts by the Trump administration to dismantle the Education Department are underway. Here's what it could mean for students.

The Trump administration has promised to eliminate the Department of Education, shifting more responsibility back to the states. States already have significant control over education — particularly when it comes to setting standards and deciding on curriculum, but eliminating the department would have major repercussions for college students.

President Donald Trump has reportedly set his sights on eliminating the U.S. Department of Education, a long-time Republican goal and promise from his campaign. The proposed plan, though, gives rise to a host of unanswered questions—not least of which is what happens to the 42-plus million Americans with federal student loan debt.

President Trump could order the U.S. Department of Education to shut down. Jill Schlesinger has tips for student loan borrowers if that happens.