The national student loan debt is more than $1.5T. And the coronavirus pandemic is expected to impact how people will pay for college in the future and whether or not current borrowers will be able to make their payments now.

Christine Roberts is the head of student lending at Citizens Bank, she says families need to have frank discussions about finances and options.

For those currently borrowing, Roberts says to evaluate finances and seek assistance from lenders if unable to pay loans.

And for students beginning the financial aid process, she says to talk with family members and financial aid officers about how to handle paying for school during the pandemic.