An Income Share Agreement (ISA) is a financial arrangement where an individual receives funding for education, typically college or vocational training, in exchange for agreeing to pay a percentage of their future income for a specified period after graduation or employment.
An Income Share Agreement (ISA) represents an alternative to traditional student loans. Under an ISA, a student receives financial support for their education, not as a loan, but in exchange for a commitment to pay a fixed percentage of their post-graduation income over a set period. This percentage and the duration of payments vary based on the terms of the agreement and often are contingent on the student securing employment above a certain income threshold.
Unlike traditional loans that accumulate interest over time, the total amount paid through an ISA can vary significantly depending on the individual's income level after completing their education. This model aligns the interests of the student and the financier, as payments are directly tied to the financial success of the student post-graduation.
ISAs are seen as a way to mitigate the risk of student debt, particularly in cases where students are pursuing fields with uncertain job prospects or fluctuating income levels. They offer a form of financial security, as payments adjust with income and can provide a safety net in cases of low or unstable earnings.
However, ISAs are not without criticism. Questions about their long-term financial implications for students, regulatory oversight, and the potential for adverse selection (where only those who expect to have lower earnings choose ISAs) are ongoing concerns. Additionally, the fairness of payment terms and the potential for targeting vulnerable populations are subjects of ethical discussions.
A student enters into an ISA to fund their software engineering degree. The agreement stipulates that after graduation, if they earn over $50,000 annually, they will pay 10% of their income for 10 years. If their annual income falls below $50,000, the payments are paused.
Financial Aid: Any type of monetary support given to individuals or organizations, primarily aimed at assisting with education expenses, but can also include other forms of financial assistance.
Student Loans: A type of loan designed to help students pay for post-secondary education and the associated fees, such as tuition, books, and living expenses, which must be repaid with interest.
Scholarship: A form of financial aid awarded to students based on various criteria, often academic merit or specific talents, which does not require repayment.