College tuition and student debt levels have been rising at an alarming pace for at least two decades. These trends, coupled with an economy weakened by a major recession, have raised serious questions about whether we are headed for a major crisis, with borrowers defaulting on their loans in unprecedented numbers and taxpayers being forced to foot

"Higher education is essential to our nation's future, so how do we pay for it? Game of Loans tackles that urgent question--and it does so brilliantly. With lucid prose and crisp analysis, Beth Akers and Matthew Chingos puncture myths, reveal facts, and chart a sensible course forward. This book is a game-changer, and it should be required reading for everyone interested in higher education and public policy."--Christopher L. Eisgruber, president of Princeton University

"If you want to understand student debt, read this book. Akers and Chingos get past anecdote and hyperbole to explain, with data, what is and is not working in our student loan system. Game of Loans is rigorous, clearly written, and eye opening. Students, policy wonks, and curious observers of the student loan 'crisis' will all benefit from its insights."--Susan Dynarski, University of Michigan

"Clearly written and much needed, Game of Loans provides insight into the student loan market in the United States."--Sarah Turner, University of Virginia

"This insightful book provides an excellent overview of the current student loan system. Presenting evidence about who borrows, how much they borrow, and the burden of repayment, Akers and Chingos refute the idea that there is a general student loan crisis, highlight the real problems that do exist, and propose solutions."--Sandy Baum, coauthor of the annual Trends in Student Aid and Trends in College Pricing

"Game of Loansincludes a clear and concise analysis of college prices and student borrowing patterns over time, filling in holes in a debate often bereft of relevant and reliable data."---Jason Delisle, Education Next