e10vq
Table of Contents

 
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
 
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
 
 
 
Form 10-Q
 
     
(Mark One)    
 
þ
  QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
    For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2009 or
o
  TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
    For the transition period from          to          
 
Commission File Number: 001-13251
 
 
 
 
SLM Corporation
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
     
Delaware   52-2013874
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
  (I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
     
12061 Bluemont Way, Reston, Virginia   20190
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)
 
(703) 810-3000
 
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
 
 
 
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes þ     No o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
 
Large accelerated filer þ Accelerated filer o Non-accelerated filer o Smaller reporting company o
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes o     No o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes o     No þ
 
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date:
 
     
Class
 
Outstanding at April 30, 2009
 
Voting common stock, $.20 par value
  467,490,222 shares
 


 

 
SLM CORPORATION

FORM 10-Q
INDEX
March 31, 2009
 
                 
       
      Financial Statements     2  
      Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations     43  
      Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk     104  
      Controls and Procedures     106  
       
      Legal Proceedings     108  
      Risk Factors     108  
      Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds     108  
      Defaults Upon Senior Securities     108  
      Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders     108  
      Other Information     108  
      Exhibits     109  
    110  
    111  
 Exhibit 31.1
 Exhibit 31.2
 Exhibit 32.1
 Exhibit 32.2


1


Table of Contents

 
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Item 1.   Financial Statements
 
SLM CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Dollars and shares in thousands, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
 
                 
    March 31,
    December 31,
 
    2009     2008  
 
Assets
               
FFELP Stafford and Other Student Loans (net of allowance for losses of $101,375 and $90,906, respectively)
  $ 43,444,179     $ 44,025,361  
FFELP Stafford Loans Held-for-Sale
    14,399,802       8,450,976  
FFELP Consolidation Loans (net of allowance for losses of $50,919 and $46,637, respectively)
    70,885,647       71,743,435  
Private Education Loans (net of allowance for losses of $1,384,455 and $1,308,043, respectively)
    21,644,579       20,582,298  
Other loans (net of allowance for losses of $66,011 and $58,395, respectively)
    684,913       729,380  
Investments
               
Available-for-sale
    546,914       861,008  
Other
    137,477       180,397  
                 
Total investments
    684,391       1,041,405  
Cash and cash equivalents
    3,063,801       4,070,002  
Restricted cash and investments
    3,855,546       3,535,286  
Retained Interest in off-balance sheet securitized loans
    1,950,566       2,200,298  
Goodwill and acquired intangible assets, net
    1,239,556       1,249,219  
Other assets
    9,698,331       11,140,777  
                 
Total assets
  $ 171,551,311     $ 168,768,437  
                 
Liabilities
               
ED Participation Program facility
  $ 13,529,483     $ 7,364,969  
Term bank deposits
    1,066,171       1,147,825  
Other short-term borrowings
    31,735,807       33,420,249  
                 
Total short-term borrowings
    46,331,461       41,933,043  
Long-term borrowings
    116,669,381       118,224,794  
Other liabilities
    3,586,610       3,604,260  
                 
Total liabilities
    166,587,452       163,762,097  
                 
Commitments and contingencies
               
Equity
               
Preferred stock, par value $.20 per share, 20,000 shares authorized:
               
Series A: 3,300 and 3,300 shares, respectively, issued at stated value of $50 per share
    165,000       165,000  
Series B: 4,000 and 4,000 shares, respectively, issued at stated value of $100 per share
    400,000       400,000  
Series C: 7.25% mandatory convertible preferred stock; 1,150 and 1,150 shares, respectively, issued at liquidation preference of $1,000 per share
    1,149,770       1,149,770  
Common stock, par value $.20 per share, 1,125,000 shares authorized: 534,698 and 534,411 shares issued, respectively
    106,940       106,883  
Additional paid-in capital
    4,694,155       4,684,112  
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (net of tax benefit of $40,973 and $43,202, respectively)
    (70,450 )     (76,476 )
Retained earnings
    378,387       426,175  
                 
Total SLM Corporation stockholders’ equity before treasury stock
    6,823,802       6,855,464  
Common stock held in treasury at cost: 67,105 and 66,958 shares, respectively
    1,859,955       1,856,394  
                 
Total SLM Corporation stockholders’ equity
    4,963,847       4,999,070  
Noncontrolling interest
    12       7,270  
                 
Total equity
    4,963,859       5,006,340  
                 
Total liabilities and equity
  $ 171,551,311     $ 168,768,437  
                 
 
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


2


Table of Contents

SLM CORPORATION
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(Dollars and shares in thousands, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
 
                 
    Three Months Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Interest income:
               
FFELP Stafford and Other Student Loans
  $ 342,816     $ 464,476  
FFELP Consolidation Loans
    489,362       836,656  
Private Education Loans
    387,041       443,522  
Other loans
    16,420       23,344  
Cash and investments
    5,971       123,816  
                 
Total interest income
    1,241,610       1,891,814  
Total interest expense
    1,026,547       1,615,445  
                 
Net interest income
    215,063       276,369  
Less: provisions for loan losses
    250,279       137,311  
                 
Net interest income (loss) after provisions for loan losses
    (35,216 )     139,058  
                 
Other income:
               
Servicing and securitization revenue (loss)
    (95,305 )     107,642  
Losses on sales of loans and securities, net
          (34,666 )
Gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities, net
    104,025       (272,796 )
Contingency fee revenue
    74,815       85,306  
Collections revenue (loss)
    (21,330 )     57,239  
Guarantor servicing fees
    34,008       34,653  
Other
    192,458       93,533  
                 
Total other income
    288,671       70,911  
                 
Expenses:
               
Salaries and benefits
    136,921       179,729  
Other operating expenses
    164,562       175,919  
Restructuring expenses
    4,773       20,678  
                 
Total expenses
    306,256       376,326  
                 
Loss before income tax benefit
    (52,801 )     (166,357 )
Income tax benefit
    (31,696 )     (62,488 )
                 
Net loss
    (21,105 )     (103,869 )
Less: net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest
    281       (65 )
                 
Net loss attributable to SLM Corporation
    (21,386 )     (103,804 )
Preferred stock dividends
    26,395       29,025  
                 
Net loss attributable to SLM Corporation common stock
  $ (47,781 )   $ (132,829 )
                 
Basic loss per common share attributable to SLM Corporation common shareholders
  $ (.10 )   $ (.28 )
                 
Average common shares outstanding
    466,761       466,580  
                 
Diluted loss per common share attributable to SLM Corporation common shareholders
  $ (.10 )   $ (.28 )
                 
Average common and common equivalent shares outstanding
    466,761       466,580  
                 
Dividends per common share attributable to SLM Corporation common shareholders
  $     $  
                 
 
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


3


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
 
                                                                                                         
                                              Accumulated
                               
    Preferred
                                  Additional
    Other
                Total
             
    Stock
    Common Stock Shares     Preferred
    Common
    Paid-In
    Comprehensive
    Retained
    Treasury
    Stockholders’
    Noncontrolling
    Total
 
    Shares     Issued     Treasury     Outstanding     Stock     Stock     Capital     Income (Loss)     Earnings     Stock     Equity     Interest     Equity  
 
Balance at December 31, 2007
    8,300,000       532,493,081       (65,951,394 )     466,541,687     $ 1,565,000     $ 106,499     $ 4,590,174     $ 236,364     $ 557,204     $ (1,831,706 )   $ 5,223,535     $ 11,360     $ 5,234,895  
Comprehensive income:
                                                                                                       
Net income (loss)
                                                                    (103,804 )             (103,804 )     (65 )     (103,869 )
Acquisition of noncontrolling interest in Purchased Paper business
                                                                                          (4,687 )     (4,687 )
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
                                                                                                       
Change in unrealized gains (losses) on investments, net of tax
                                                            (12,529 )                     (12,529 )           (12,529 )
Change in unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives, net of tax
                                                            (31,574 )                     (31,574 )           (31,574 )
                                                                                                         
Comprehensive income
                                                                                    (147,907 )     (4,752 )     (152,659 )
Cash dividends:
                                                                                                       
Preferred stock, series A ($.87 per share)
                                                                    (2,875 )             (2,875 )             (2,875 )
Preferred stock, series B ($1.43 per share)
                                                                    (5,386 )             (5,386 )             (5,386 )
Preferred stock, series C ($15.10 per share)
                                                                    (20,602 )             (20,602 )             (20,602 )
Restricted stock dividend
                                                                    (1,846 )             (1,846 )             (1,846 )
Issuance of common shares
            1,184,947               1,184,947               237       11,943                               12,180               12,180  
Issuance of preferred shares
    150,000                               150,000               (4,493 )             (162 )             145,345               145,345  
Tax benefit related to employee stock option and purchase plans
                                                    (6,150 )                             (6,150 )             (6,150 )
Stock-based compensation cost
                                                    18,804                               18,804               18,804  
Cumulative effect of accounting change
                                                            (194,655 )     194,655                              
Repurchase of common shares:
                                                                                                       
Benefit plans
                    (349,807 )     (349,807 )                                             (6,931 )     (6,931 )             (6,931 )
                                                                                                         
Balance at March 31, 2008
    8,450,000       533,678,028       (66,301,201 )     467,376,827     $ 1,715,000     $ 106,736     $ 4,610,278     $ (2,394 )   $ 617,184     $ (1,838,637 )   $ 5,208,167     $ 6,608     $ 5,214,775  
                                                                                                         
Balance at December 31, 2008
    8,449,770       534,411,271       (66,958,400 )     467,452,871     $ 1,714,770     $ 106,883     $ 4,684,112     $ (76,476 )   $ 426,175     $ (1,856,394 )   $ 4,999,070     $ 7,270     $ 5,006,340  
Comprehensive income:
                                                                                                       
Net income (loss)
                                                                    (21,386 )             (21,386 )     281       (21,105 )
Sale of international Purchased Paper — Non-Mortgage business
                                                                                          (7,539 )     (7,539 )
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
                                                                                                       
Change in unrealized gains (losses) on investments, net of tax
                                                            950                       950             950  
Change in unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives, net of tax
                                                            5,409                       5,409             5,409  
Defined benefit pension plans adjustment
                                                            (333 )                     (333 )             (333 )
                                                                                                         
Comprehensive income
                                                                                    (15,360 )     (7,258 )     (22,618 )
Cash dividends:
                                                                                                       
Preferred stock, series A ($.87 per share)
                                                                    (2,875 )             (2,875 )             (2,875 )
Preferred stock, series B ($.66 per share)
                                                                    (2,520 )             (2,520 )             (2,520 )
Preferred stock, series C ($18.13 per share)
                                                                    (20,840 )             (20,840 )             (20,840 )
Restricted stock dividend
                                                                    (7 )             (7 )             (7 )
Issuance of common shares
            286,846       98       286,944               57       2,045                       5       2,107               2,107  
Issuance of preferred shares
                                                    160               (160 )                            
Tax benefit related to employee stock option and purchase plans
                                                    (4,495 )                             (4,495 )             (4,495 )
Stock-based compensation cost
                                                    12,333                               12,333               12,333  
Repurchase of common shares:
                                                                                                       
Benefit plans
                    (147,058 )     (147,058 )                                             (3,566 )     (3,566 )             (3,566 )
                                                                                                         
Balance at March 31, 2009
    8,449,770       534,698,117       (67,105,360 )     467,592,757     $ 1,714,770     $ 106,940     $ 4,694,155     $ (70,450 )   $ 378,387     $ (1,859,955 )   $ 4,963,847     $ 12     $ 4,963,859  
                                                                                                         
 
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


4


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Dollars in thousands)
(Unaudited)
 
                 
    Three Months Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Operating activities
               
Net loss
  $ (21,105 )   $ (103,869 )
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:
               
Losses on sales of loans and securities, net
          34,666  
Stock-based compensation cost
    13,243       20,649  
Unrealized (gains)/losses on derivative and hedging activities
    (15,273 )     364,283  
Provisions for loan losses
    250,279       137,311  
Mortgage loans originated
    (3,624 )     (16,569 )
Proceeds from sales of mortgage loans
    3,856       19,800  
Decrease in purchased paper mortgages, net
    80,299       29,070  
Student loans originated for sale
    (6,411,932 )      
Decrease (increase) in restricted cash — other
    35,270       (182,304 )
Decrease in accrued interest receivable
    458,024       25,476  
(Decrease) in accrued interest payable
    (284,223 )     (143,259 )
Adjustment for non-cash loss related to Retained Interest
    249,833       88,111  
Decrease in other assets, goodwill and acquired intangible assets, net
    237,962       13,406  
(Decrease) in other liabilities
    (60,767 )     (63,415 )
                 
Total adjustments
    (5,447,053 )     327,225  
                 
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities
    (5,468,158 )     223,356  
                 
Investing activities
               
Student loans acquired
    (2,589,083 )     (9,521,405 )
Loans purchased from securitized trusts (primarily loan consolidations)
    (2,194 )     (309,867 )
Reduction of student loans:
               
Installment payments, claims and other
    2,708,857       2,694,582  
Proceeds from sales of student loans
    462,311       28,478  
Other loans — originated
    (37,017 )     (676,586 )
Other loans — repaid
    67,186       692,954  
Other investing activities, net
    22,718       (38,930 )
Purchases of available-for-sale securities
    (20,521,734 )     (34,649,820 )
Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities
    100,056       8  
Proceeds from maturities of available-for-sale securities
    20,726,497       36,121,393  
Proceeds from maturities of held-to-maturity securities and other securities
    43,994       9,494  
(Increase) decrease in restricted cash — on-balance sheet trusts
    (344,780 )     621,939  
Return of investment from Retained Interest
          79,542  
Purchase of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired
          (37,868 )
                 
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
    636,811       (4,986,086 )
                 
Financing activities
               
Borrowings collateralized by loans in trust — issued
    1,330,930       4,720,526  
Borrowings collateralized by loans in trust — repaid
    (1,432,135 )     (1,880,478 )
Asset-backed commercial paper conduits — net activity
    682,937       (1,715,757 )
ED Participation Program
    6,164,514        
Other short-term borrowings issued
    100,002       507,984  
Other short-term borrowings repaid
    (212,720 )     (113,761 )
Other long-term borrowings issued
    1,156,263        
Other long-term borrowings repaid
    (3,024,590 )     (1,822,989 )
Other financing activities, net
    (905,832 )     1,179,988  
Excess tax benefit from the exercise of stock-based awards
          10,669  
Common stock issued
          756  
Preferred stock issued
          145,345  
Preferred dividends paid
    (26,235 )     (28,863 )
Noncontrolling interest, net
    (7,988 )     (693 )
                 
Net cash provided by financing activities
    3,825,146       1,002,727  
                 
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
    (1,006,201 )     (3,760,003 )
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    4,070,002       7,582,031  
                 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $ 3,063,801     $ 3,822,028  
                 
Cash disbursements made for:
               
Interest
  $ 1,403,858     $ 2,283,312  
                 
Income taxes
  $ 12,965     $ 101,564  
                 
 
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


5


Table of Contents

SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
1.   Significant Accounting Policies
 
Basis of Presentation
 
The accompanying unaudited, consolidated financial statements of SLM Corporation (the “Company”) have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for interim financial information. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete consolidated financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments considered necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods have been included. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2009 are not necessarily indicative of the results for the year ending December 31, 2009. The consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2008, as presented, was derived from the audited financial statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2008. These unaudited financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and related notes included in the Company’s 2008 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
 
Reclassifications
 
Certain reclassifications have been made to the balances as of and for the three months ended March 31, 2008 to be consistent with classifications adopted for 2009.
 
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
 
Fair Value Measurements
 
On April 9, 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued three staff positions regarding fair value measurements and recognition of impairment. Under FASB Staff Position (“FSP”) Financial Accounting Standards (“FAS”) No. 115-2 and FAS No. 124-2, “Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments,” impairment must be recorded within the consolidated statements of income for debt securities if there exists a fair value loss and the entity intends to sell the security or it is more likely than not the entity will be required to sell the security before recovery of the loss. Additionally, expected credit losses must be recorded through income regardless of the impairment determination above. Remaining fair value losses are recorded to other comprehensive income. FSP FAS No. 107-1 and APB No. 28-1, “Interim Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments,” requires interim disclosures of the fair value of financial instruments that were previously only required annually. Finally, FSP FAS No. 157-4, “Determining Fair Value When the Volume and Level of Activity for the Asset or Liability Have Significantly Decreased and Identifying Transactions That Are Not Orderly,” provides guidance for determining when a significant decrease in market activity has occurred and when a transaction is not orderly. It further reiterates that prices from inactive markets or disorderly transactions should carry less weight, if any, to the determination of fair value. These standards are effective for the Company beginning April 1, 2009 with the ability to early adopt as of January 1, 2009. The Company chose not to early adopt these standards for the quarter ending March 31, 2009 as the Company believes these standards will not materially impact the financial statements.
 
On February 12, 2008, the FASB issued FSP FAS No. 157-2, “Effective Date of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 157,” which defers the effective date of SFAS No. 157 for nonfinancial assets and liabilities, except for items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements


6


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
1.   Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)
 
on a recurring basis. FSP FAS No. 157-2 delayed the implementation of SFAS No. 157 for the Company’s accounting of goodwill, acquired intangibles, and other nonfinancial assets and liabilities that are measured at the lower of cost or market until January 1, 2009. Adoption of this standard was not material to the Company.
 
Business Combinations
 
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141(R), “Business Combinations.” SFAS No. 141(R) requires the acquiring entity in a business combination to recognize the entire acquisition-date fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in both full and partial acquisitions; changes the recognition of assets acquired and liabilities assumed related to contingencies; changes the recognition and measurement of contingent consideration; requires expensing of most transaction and restructuring costs; and requires additional disclosures to enable the users of the financial statements to evaluate and understand the nature and financial effect of the business combination. SFAS No. 141(R) applies to all transactions or other events in which the Company obtains control of one or more businesses. SFAS No. 141(R) applies prospectively to business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the reporting period beginning on or after December 15, 2008, which for the Company was January 1, 2009. The adoption of this standard on January 1, 2009, did not have a material effect on the Company’s results of operations or financial position.
 
In February 2009, the FASB issued FSP No. FAS No. 141(R), “Accounting for Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed in a Business Combination That Arise from Contingencies.” FSP No. FAS No. 141(R) amends the provisions related to the initial recognition and measurement, subsequent measurement and disclosure of assets and liabilities arising from contingencies in a business combination under SFAS No. 141(R), “Business Combinations.” FSP No. FAS No. 141(R) had the same effective date as SFAS No. 141(R). The adoption of this standard did not have a material effect on the Company’s results of operations or financial position.
 
Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements — an Amendment of Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51
 
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements — an Amendment of Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51.” SFAS No. 160 requires reporting entities to present noncontrolling (minority) interests as equity (as opposed to a presentation as a liability or mezzanine equity) and provides guidance on the accounting for transactions between an entity and noncontrolling interests. On January 1, 2009, the Company adopted SFAS No. 160, the provisions of which, among other things, require that minority interests be renamed “noncontrolling interests” and that a company presents a consolidated net income (loss) measure that includes the amount attributable to such “noncontrolling interests” for all periods presented. SFAS No. 160 applies prospectively for reporting periods beginning on or after December 15, 2008, except for the presentation and disclosure requirements which are applied retrospectively for all periods presented. The Company has reclassified financial statement line items within its consolidated balance sheets, statements of income, statements of changes in stockholders’ equity and statements of cash flows for the prior period to conform to this standard. Other than the change in presentation of noncontrolling interests, the adoption of SFAS No. 160 had no impact on the consolidated financial statements.


7


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
1.   Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)
 
Disclosures about Derivative Investments and Hedging Activities — an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133
 
In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Investments and Hedging Activities — an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133.” SFAS No. 161 requires enhanced disclosures about an entity’s derivative and hedging activities, including (1) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, (2) how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,” and its related interpretations, and (3) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. To meet those objectives, SFAS No. 161 requires qualitative disclosures about objectives and strategies for using derivatives, quantitative disclosures about fair value amounts and gains and losses on derivative instruments, and disclosures about credit-risk-related contingent features in derivative agreements. SFAS No. 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. The Company adopted this standard on January 1, 2009.
 
Accounting for Hedging Activities — An Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133
 
In June 2008, the FASB issued an exposure draft to amend the accounting for hedging activities in SFAS No. 133. This proposed statement is intended to simplify accounting for hedging activities, improve the financial reporting of hedging activities, resolve major practice issues related to hedge accounting that have arisen under SFAS No. 133, and address differences resulting from recognition and measurement anomalies between the accounting for derivative instruments and the accounting for hedged items or transactions. While the amendment as currently drafted may simplify the Company’s accounting model for hedging activities under SFAS No. 133, the Company does not expect it to significantly impact its results of operations. The full impact of this amendment, effective January 1, 2010, as currently proposed, cannot be evaluated until the final statement is issued, which is expected to occur sometime in 2009.
 
Qualifying Special Purpose Entities (“QSPEs”) and Changes in the FIN No. 46(R) Consolidation Model
 
In September 2008, the FASB issued two separate but related exposure drafts for comment in connection with amendments to (1) SFAS No. 140, “Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities — a replacement of FASB Statement No. 125,” which would impact the accounting for QSPEs and (2) FASB’s FIN No. 46(R), “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities — an interpretation of ARB No. 51.”
 
Based on the Company’s preliminary review of these exposure drafts, it is likely that these changes will lead to the consolidation of certain QSPEs that are currently not consolidated by the Company. Assuming no changes to the Company’s current business model, the Company would most likely consolidate its securitization trusts that are currently off-balance sheet on January 1, 2010, based on these exposure drafts as currently proposed. These proposed new accounting rules would also be applied to new transactions entered into from January 1, 2010 forward. However, the impact to the Company’s accounting for its QSPEs and VIEs cannot be determined until the FASB issues the final amendments to SFAS No. 140 and FIN No. 46(R) which is expected sometime in 2009.


8


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
2.   Allowance for Loan Losses
 
The Company’s provisions for loan losses represent the periodic expense of maintaining an allowance sufficient to absorb incurred losses, net of recoveries, in the held-for-investment loan portfolios. The evaluation of the provisions for loan losses is inherently subjective as it requires material estimates that may be susceptible to significant changes. The Company believes that the allowance for loan losses is appropriate to cover probable losses incurred in the loan portfolios.
 
The following table summarizes the total loan provisions for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                 
    Three Months Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Private Education Loans
  $ 203,545     $ 118,611  
FFELP Stafford and Other Student Loans
    34,398       16,103  
Mortgage and consumer loans
    12,336       2,597  
                 
Total provisions for loan losses
  $ 250,279     $ 137,311  
                 
 
Allowance for Private Education Loan Losses
 
As discussed in the Company’s 2008 Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 2, 2009, the Company has changed its methodology used to present charge-offs related to Private Education Loans to more clearly reflect the expected loss. Net income, provision for loan loss expense, the net loan balance, default rate and expected recovery rate assumptions were not impacted by this change. Based on the Company’s historic experience, it expects to recover a portion of loans that default. This expected recovery is taken into account in arriving at the Company’s periodic provision for loan loss expense. Previously, once a loan was delinquent for 212 days, the Company charged off 100 percent of the loan balance, even though it had provisioned for the estimated loss of the defaulted loan balance, comprised of the full loan balance less the expected recovery.
 
The Company changed its methodology to charge off the estimated loss of the defaulted loan balance to be consistent with the amount included in the provision. Actual recoveries are applied against the remaining loan balance that was not charged off. If actual periodic recoveries are less than originally expected, the difference results in immediate additional provision expense and charge off of such amount.
 
This revised methodology results in a charge-off equal to the amount provided for through the allowance for loan loss. As a result, the Company believes that this methodology better reflects the actual events occurring. Although there is diversity in practice on how charge-offs are presented, this method is more comparable to other financial institutions in how charge-offs and the related charge-off and allowance ratios are presented. The Company emphasizes that although the presentation improves the various charge-off and allowance ratios, the change does not reflect an improvement in the collectability of the Company’s loan portfolio.
 
As a result of this change, a $222 million receivable as of December 31, 2008, was reclassified from the allowance for loan loss to the Private Education Loan balance. This receivable for partially charged-off loans represents the expected future recoveries related to previously defaulted loans (i.e., the amount not charged off when a loan defaults that has not yet been collected). As of March 31, 2009, the Company assumes it will


9


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
2.   Allowance for Loan Losses (Continued)
 
collect, on average, 27 percent of a defaulted loan’s balance over an extended period of time. This recovery assumption is based on historic recovery rates achieved and is updated, as appropriate, on a quarterly basis.
 
The following table summarizes changes in the allowance for loan losses for Private Education Loans for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                 
    Three Months Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Allowance at beginning of period
  $ 1,308,043     $ 1,003,964  
Provision for Private Education Loan losses
    203,545       118,611  
Charge-offs
    (138,815 )     (57,352 )
Reclassification of interest reserve(1)
    11,681       8,094  
                 
Allowance at end of period
  $ 1,384,454     $ 1,073,317  
                 
Charge-offs as a percentage of average loans in repayment (annualized)
    5.1 %     3.3 %
Charge-offs as a percentage of average loans in repayment and forbearance (annualized)
    4.7 %     2.8 %
Allowance as a percentage of the ending total loan balance
    5.9 %     5.8 %
Allowance as a percentage of ending loans in repayment
    12.3 %     14.5 %
Allowance coverage of charge-offs (annualized)
    2.5       4.7  
Ending total loans(2)
  $ 23,564,123     $ 18,546,773  
Average loans in repayment
  $ 11,107,102     $ 7,095,585  
Ending loans in repayment
  $ 11,233,368     $ 7,387,981  
 
 
  (1)  Represents the additional allowance related to the amount of uncollectible interest reserved within interest income that is transferred in the period to the allowance for loan losses when interest is capitalized to a loan’s principal balance.  
  (2)  Ending total loans represents gross Private Education Loans, plus the receivable for partially charged-off loans.  


10


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
2.   Allowance for Loan Losses (Continued)
 
 
Private Education Loan Delinquencies
 
The table below presents the Company’s Private Education Loan delinquency trends as of March 31, 2009, December 31, 2008, and March 31, 2008.
 
                                                 
    Private Education Loan Delinquencies  
    March 31, 2009     December 31, 2008     March 31, 2008  
(Dollars in millions)
  Balance     %     Balance     %     Balance     %  
 
Loans in-school/grace/deferment(1)
  $ 11,205             $ 10,159             $ 9,743          
Loans in forbearance(2)
    861               862               1,281          
Loans in repayment and percentage of each status:
                                               
Loans current
    9,410       83.8 %     9,748       87.2 %     6,649       90.0 %
Loans delinquent 31-60 days(3)
    515       4.6       551       4.9       261       3.5  
Loans delinquent 61-90 days(3)
    403       3.6       296       2.6       148       2.0  
Loans delinquent greater than 90 days(3)
    905       8.0       587       5.3       330       4.5  
                                                 
Total Private Education Loans in repayment
    11,233       100 %     11,182       100 %     7,388       100 %
                                                 
Total Private Education Loans, gross
    23,299               22,203               18,412          
Private Education Loan unamortized discount
    (535 )             (535 )             (496 )        
                                                 
Total Private Education Loans
    22,764               21,668               17,916          
Private Education Loan receivable for partially charged-off loans
    265               222               135          
Private Education Loan allowance for losses
    (1,384 )             (1,308 )             (1,074 )        
                                                 
Private Education Loans, net
  $ 21,645             $ 20,582             $ 16,977          
                                                 
Percentage of Private Education Loans in repayment
            48.2 %             50.4 %             40.1 %
                                                 
Delinquencies as a percentage of Private Education Loans in repayment
            16.2 %             12.8 %             10.0 %
                                                 
Loans in forbearance as a percentage of loans in repayment and forbearance
            7.1 %             7.2 %             14.8 %
                                                 
 
 
(1) Loans for borrowers who may be attending school or engaging in other permitted educational activities and are not yet required to make payments on their loans, e.g., residency periods for medical students or a grace period for bar exam preparation.
 
(2) Loans for borrowers who have used their allowable deferment time or do not qualify for deferment and need additional time to obtain employment or who have temporarily ceased making full payments due to hardship or other factors consistent with the established loan program servicing procedures and policies.
 
(3) The period of delinquency is based on the number of days scheduled payments are contractually past due.


11


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
2.   Allowance for Loan Losses (Continued)
 
 
Allowance for FFELP Loan Losses
 
The following table summarizes changes in the allowance for loan losses for the FFELP loan portfolio for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                 
    Three Months Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Allowance at beginning of period
  $ 137,543     $ 88,729  
Provisions for student loan losses
    34,398       16,103  
Charge-offs
    (18,880 )     (10,835 )
Decrease for student loan sales
    (767 )      
                 
Allowance at end of period
  $ 152,294     $ 93,997  
                 
Charge-offs as a percentage of average loans in repayment (annualized)
    .11 %     .07 %
Charge-offs as a percentage of average loans in repayment and forbearance (annualized)
    .09 %     .06 %
Allowance as a percentage of the ending total loans, gross
    .12 %     .08 %
Allowance as a percentage of the ending loans in repayment
    .22 %     .14 %
Allowance coverage of charge-offs (annualized)
    1.99       2.16  
Ending total loans, gross
  $ 126,453,600     $ 111,812,620  
Average loans in repayment
  $ 69,595,581     $ 65,086,516  
Ending loans in repayment
  $ 68,614,707     $ 64,883,167  
 
The Company maintains an allowance for Risk Sharing loan losses on its FFELP loan portfolio. The level of Risk Sharing has varied over the past few years with legislative changes. As of March 31, 2009, 51 percent of the on-balance sheet FFELP loan portfolio was subject to three-percent Risk Sharing, 48 percent was subject to two-percent Risk Sharing and the remaining 1 percent was not subject to any Risk Sharing.


12


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
2.   Allowance for Loan Losses (Continued)
 
FFELP Loan Delinquencies
 
The table below shows the Company’s FFELP loan delinquency trends as of March 31, 2009, December 31, 2008 and March 31, 2008.
 
                                                 
    FFELP Loan Delinquencies  
    March 31, 2009     December 31, 2008     March 31, 2008  
(Dollars in millions)
  Balance     %     Balance     %     Balance     %  
 
Loans in-school/grace/deferment(1)
  $ 44,679             $ 39,270             $ 34,997          
Loans in forbearance(2)
    13,160               12,483               11,932          
Loans in repayment and percentage of each status:
                                               
Loans current
    57,925       84.4 %     58,811       83.8 %     55,698       85.8 %
Loans delinquent 31-60 days(3)
    3,710       5.4       4,044       5.8       3,176       4.9  
Loans delinquent 61-90 days(3)
    2,017       3.0       2,064       2.9       1,643       2.5  
Loans delinquent greater than 90 days(3)
    4,963       7.2       5,255       7.5       4,366       6.8  
                                                 
Total FFELP loans in repayment
    68,615       100 %     70,174       100 %     64,883       100 %
                                                 
Total FFELP loans, gross
    126,454               121,927               111,812          
FFELP loan unamortized premium
    2,428               2,431               2,317          
                                                 
Total FFELP loans
    128,882               124,358               114,129          
FFELP loan allowance for losses
    (152 )             (138 )             (93 )        
                                                 
FFELP loans, net
  $ 128,730             $ 124,220             $ 114,036          
                                                 
Percentage of FFELP loans in repayment
            54.3 %             57.6 %             58.0 %
                                                 
Delinquencies as a percentage of FFELP loans in repayment
            15.6 %             16.2 %             14.2 %
                                                 
FFELP loans in forbearance as a percentage of loans in repayment and forbearance
            16.1 %             15.1 %             15.5 %
                                                 
 
 
(1) Loans for borrowers who may be attending school or engaging in other permitted educational activities and are not yet required to make payments on the loans, e.g., residency periods for medical students or a grace period for bar exam preparation, as well as, loans for borrowers who have requested extension of grace period during employment transition or who have temporarily ceased making full payments due to hardship or other factors.
 
(2) Loans for borrowers who have used their allowable deferment time or do not qualify for deferment, and need additional time to obtain employment or who have temporarily ceased making full payments due to hardship or other factors, consistent with the established loan program servicing policies and procedures.
 
(3) The period of delinquency is based on the number of days scheduled payments are contractually past due.


13


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
 
3.   Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets
 
Goodwill
 
In accordance with SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” all acquisitions must be assigned to a reporting unit or units. A reporting unit is the same as or one level below an operating segment, as defined in SFAS No. 131. The following table summarizes the Company’s allocation of goodwill to its reporting units.
 
                 
    As of March 31,  
(Dollars in millions)
  2009     2008  
 
Lending
  $ 388     $ 388  
Asset Performance Group
    401       396  
Guarantor services
    62       62  
Upromise
    140       140  
                 
Total
  $ 991     $ 986  
                 
 
Impairment Testing
 
In accordance with SFAS No. 142, the Company performs goodwill impairment testing annually in the fourth quarter as of a September 30 valuation date or more frequently if an event occurs or circumstances change such that there is a potential that the fair value of a reporting unit or reporting units may be below their respective carrying values.
 
On February 26, 2009, the Obama Administration (“the Administration”) issued their 2010 budget request to Congress, which included provisions that could significantly impact the FFELP.
 
In light of continued general downturn in the economy, the tight credit markets, the Company’s decline in market capitalization and the uncertainty that the Administration’s budget proposal creates in relation to the Company’s current business model, the Company assessed goodwill for impairment as of March 31, 2009. The impairment assessment methodology was consistent with the methodology used in the fourth quarter of 2008, which considered market comparables, market capitalization, and discounted cash flow analyses for each reporting unit. This assessment resulted in estimated fair values of the Company’s reporting units in excess of their carrying values. Accordingly, no goodwill impairment was recorded as of March 31, 2009.
 


14


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
3.   Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets (Continued)
 
Acquired Intangible Assets
 
Acquired intangible assets include the following:
 
                                 
    Average
    As of March 31, 2009  
    Amortization
          Accumulated
       
(Dollars in millions)
  Period     Gross     Amortization     Net  
 
Intangible assets subject to amortization:
                               
Customer, services, and lending relationships
    12 years     $ 332     $ (182 )   $ 150  
Software and technology
    7 years       93       (86 )     7  
Non-compete agreements
    2 years       11       (10 )     1  
                                 
Total
            436       (278 )     158  
Intangible assets not subject to amortization:
                               
Trade name and trademark
    Indefinite       91             91  
                                 
Total acquired intangible assets
          $ 527     $ (278 )   $ 249  
                                 
 
                                 
    Average
    As of December 31, 2008  
    Amortization
          Accumulated
       
(Dollars in millions)
  Period     Gross     Amortization     Net  
 
Intangible assets subject to amortization:
                               
Customer, services, and lending relationships
    13 years     $ 332     $ (173 )   $ 159  
Software and technology
    7 years       93       (85 )     8  
Non-compete agreements
    2 years       11       (10 )     1  
                                 
Total
            436       (268 )     168  
Intangible assets not subject to amortization:
                               
Trade name and trademark
    Indefinite       91             91  
                                 
Total acquired intangible assets
          $ 527     $ (268 )   $ 259  
                                 
 
The Company recorded amortization of acquired intangible assets totaling $10 million and $15 million for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. The Company will continue to amortize its intangible assets with definite useful lives over their remaining estimated useful lives.

15


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
4.   Borrowings
 
The following table summarizes the Company’s borrowings as of March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008.
 
                                                 
    March 31, 2009     December 31, 2008  
    Short
    Long
          Short
    Long
       
(Dollars in millions)
  Term     Term     Total     Term     Term     Total  
 
Unsecured borrowings
  $ 5,052     $ 29,840     $ 34,892     $ 6,794     $ 31,182     $ 37,976  
Term bank deposits
    1,066       2,215       3,281       1,148       1,108       2,256  
Indentured trusts
          1,924       1,924       31       1,972       2,003  
2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities
    25,519             25,519       24,768             24,768  
ED Participation Program facility
    13,530             13,530       7,365             7,365  
On-balance sheet securitizations
          80,585       80,585             80,601       80,601  
Other
    1,154             1,154       1,827             1,827  
                                                 
Total before fair value adjustments
    46,321       114,564       160,885       41,933       114,863       156,796  
SFAS No. 133 fair value adjustments
    11       2,105       2,116             3,362       3,362  
                                                 
Total
  $ 46,332     $ 116,669     $ 163,001     $ 41,933     $ 118,225     $ 160,158  
                                                 
 
As of March 31, 2009, the Company had $5.2 billion in unsecured revolving credit facilities which provide liquidity support for general corporate purposes. The Company has never drawn on these facilities. The facilities include a $1.4 billion revolving credit facility maturing in October 2009; $1.9 billion maturing in October 2010; and $1.9 billion maturing in October 2011. They do not include a $0.3 billion commitment from a subsidiary of Lehman Brothers Holding, Inc. as discussed below. On April 24, 2009, the $1.4 billion revolving credit facility maturing in October 2009 was terminated and the $1.9 billion maturing in October 2011 was reduced to $1.6 billion in conjunction with the extension of the 2008 ABCP facilities (see “Asset-Backed Financing Facilities,” below). Interest on these facilities is based on LIBOR plus a spread. The principal financial covenants in the unsecured revolving credit facilities require the Company to maintain tangible net worth of at least $1.38 billion at all times. Consolidated tangible net worth as calculated for purposes of this covenant was $3.2 billion as of March 31, 2009. The covenants also require the Company to meet either a minimum interest coverage ratio or a minimum net adjusted revenue test based on the four preceding quarters’ adjusted “Core Earnings” financial performance. The Company was compliant with the minimum net adjusted revenue test as of the quarter ended March 31, 2009. Failure to meet these covenants would result in the facilities being withdrawn.
 
Lehman Brothers Bank, FSB, a subsidiary of Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc., is a party to the Company’s unsecured revolving credit facilities under which they provide the Company with a $308 million commitment. Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc. declared bankruptcy on September 15, 2008. The Company is operating under the assumption that the lending commitment of Lehman Brothers Bank, FSB, will not be honored if drawn upon. While the Company continues to explore various options, it does not anticipate replacing its commitment from Lehman Brothers Bank, FSB. On April 24, 2009 the Lehman exposure was reduced to $215 million as a result of the overall reduction in the unsecured revolving credit facilities.


16


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
4.   Borrowings (Continued)
 
Secured Borrowings
 
FIN No. 46(R), “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities,” requires VIEs to be consolidated by their primary beneficiaries. A VIE exists when either the total equity investment at risk is not sufficient to permit the entity to finance its activities by itself, or the equity investors lack one of three characteristics associated with owning a controlling financial interest. Those characteristics are the direct or indirect ability to make decisions about an entity’s activities that have a significant impact on the success of the entity, the obligation to absorb the expected losses of an entity, and the rights to receive the expected residual returns of the entity.
 
The Company currently consolidates a number of financing entities that are VIEs as a result of being the entities’ primary beneficiary. As a result, these financing VIEs are accounted for as secured borrowings. The process of identifying the primary beneficiary involves identifying all other parties that hold variable interests in the entity and determining which of the parties, including the Company, has the responsibility to absorb the majority of the entity’s expected losses or the rights to its expected residual returns. The Company is the primary beneficiary of and currently consolidates the following financing VIEs as of March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008:
 
                                                         
    March 31, 2009  
    Debt Outstanding                          
    Short
    Long
          Carrying Amount of Assets Securing Debt Outstanding  
(Dollars in millions)
  Term     Term     Total     Loans     Cash     Other Assets     Total  
 
Secured Borrowings:
                                                       
ED Participation Program facility
  $ 13,530     $     $ 13,530     $ 13,744     $ 151     $ 149     $ 14,044  
2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities(1)
    25,519             25,519       32,152       541       764       33,457  
On-balance sheet securitizations
          80,585       80,585       82,971       2,798       2,389       88,158  
Indentured trusts
          1,924       1,924       2,311       280       32       2,623  
                                                         
      39,049       82,509       121,558       131,178       3,770       3,334       138,282  
SFAS No. 133 fair value adjustment
          396       396                          
                                                         
Total
  $ 39,049     $ 82,905     $ 121,954     $ 131,178     $ 3,770     $ 3,334     $ 138,282  
                                                         
 
 
(1) Includes $1.5 billion of assets within the facility that can be released to the Company.
 
                                                         
    December 31, 2008  
    Debt Outstanding                          
    Short
    Long
          Carrying Amount of Assets Securing Debt Outstanding  
(Dollars in millions)
  Term     Term     Total     Loans     Cash     Other Assets     Total  
 
Secured Borrowings:
                                                       
ED Participation Program facility
  $ 7,365     $     $ 7,365     $ 7,733     $ 88     $ 85     $ 7,906  
2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities
    24,768             24,768       31,953       462       816       33,231  
On-balance sheet securitizations
          80,601       80,601       81,547       2,632       999       85,178  
Indentured trusts
    31       1,972       2,003       2,199       236       40       2,475  
                                                         
      32,164       82,573       114,737       123,432       3,418       1,940       128,790  
SFAS No. 133 fair value adjustment
          872       872                          
                                                         
Total
  $ 32,164     $ 83,445     $ 115,609     $ 123,432     $ 3,418     $ 1,940     $ 128,790  
                                                         


17


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
4.   Borrowings (Continued)
 
Asset-Backed Financing Facilities
 
During the first quarter of 2008, the Company entered into three new asset-backed financing facilities (the “2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities”): (i) a $26.0 billion FFELP student loan ABCP conduit facility (the “2008 FFELP ABCP Facility”); (ii) a $5.9 billion Private Education Loan ABCP conduit facility (the “2008 Private Education Loan ABCP Facility”) (collectively, the “2008 ABCP Facilities”); and (iii) a $2.0 billion secured FFELP loan facility (the “2008 Asset-Backed Loan Facility”). The initial term of the 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities was 364 days. The underlying cost of borrowing under the 2008 ABCP Facilities is approximately LIBOR plus 0.68 percent for the FFELP loan facilities and LIBOR plus 1.55 percent for the Private Education Loan facility, excluding up-front and unused commitment fees. All-in pricing on the 2008 ABCP Facilities varies based on usage. For the full year 2008, the combined, all-in cost of borrowings related to the 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities, including amortized up-front fees and unused commitment fees, was three-month LIBOR plus 2.47 percent. The primary use of the 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities was to refinance comparable asset-backed commercial paper facilities incurred in connection with the Proposed Merger, with the expectation that outstanding balances under the 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities would be reduced through securitization of the underlying student loan collateral in the term ABS market. Funding under the 2008 Asset-backed Financing Facilities is subject to usual and customary conditions.
 
In the third quarter of 2008, the Company reduced the commitments under its Private Education Loan ABCP conduit facility by approximately $2.2 billion to $3.7 billion and the commitments under its FFELP ABCP Facilities by $4.1 billion to $21.9 billion. There were no changes to interest rates, maturity or other terms of the facilities made in connection with the reductions. The Company reduced these commitments after an analysis of its ongoing liquidity needs and following its acceptance and funding under ED’s Participation and Purchase Programs.
 
The maximum amount the Company may borrow under the 2008 ABCP Facilities is limited based on certain factors, including market conditions and the fair value of student loans in the facility. As of March 31, 2009, the maximum borrowing amount was approximately $21.1 billion under the FFELP ABCP Facilities and $2.7 billion under the Private Education Loan ABCP Facility. The 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities are subject to termination under certain circumstances, including the Company’s failure to comply with the principal financial covenants in its unsecured revolving credit facilities.
 
Borrowings under the 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities are nonrecourse to the Company. As of March 31, 2009, the Company had $25.5 billion outstanding in connection with the 2008 Asset Backed Financing Facilities. The book basis of the assets securing these facilities as of March 31, 2009 was $31.9 billion. $3.9 billion of this overcollateralization related to the 2008 FFELP ABCP Facility and 2008 Asset-Backed Loan Facility, and $2.5 billion related to the 2008 Private Education Loan ABCP Facility.
 
On February 2, 2009, the Company extended the maturity date of the 2008 ABCP Facilities from February 28, 2009 to April 28, 2009 for a $61 million upfront fee. The other terms of the facilities remain materially unchanged.
 
On February 27, 2009, the Company extended the maturity date of the 2008 Asset-Backed Loan Facility from February 28, 2009 to April 28, 2009 for a $4 million upfront fee. The other terms of this facility remain materially unchanged.
 
On April 24, 2009, the Company extended the maturity of $21.8 billion of the 2008 FFELP ABCP Facility for one year. The 2008 FFELP ABCP Facility is now scheduled to mature on April, 23, 2010. The Company also extended its 2008 Asset-Backed Loan Facility in the amount of $1.5 billion. The 2008 Asset-


18


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
4.   Borrowings (Continued)
 
Backed Loan Facility is now scheduled to mature on June 26, 2009. A total of $86 million in fees were paid related to these extensions. The 2008 Private Education Loan ABCP Facility was paid off and terminated on April 24, 2009. The stated borrowing rate of the 2008 FFELP ABCP Facility is the applicable funding rate plus 130 basis points (not including the upfront fees). The applicable funding rate will generally be the commercial paper rate. The $21.8 billion extended facility contains two contractual reductions which will require the facility limit to be reduced to $15.2 billion on June 30, 2009 and subsequently to $10.9 billion on September 30, 2009. Failure to meet these specified reductions will result in an increase in the spread to the applicable funding rate to 300 basis points. The Company expects to materially reduce the size of the 2008 FFELP ABCP Facility prior to maturity through a combination of asset securitizations and through the utilization of the ED Conduit Program. If the Company does not negotiate an extension or pay off all outstanding amounts of the 2008 FFELP ABCP Facility at maturity, the facility will extend by 90 days with the interest rate generally increasing to LIBOR plus 250 basis points to 550 basis points over the 90 day period. The other terms of the facilities remained materially unchanged.
 
5.   Student Loan Securitization
 
The Company securitizes its FFELP Stafford loans, FFELP Consolidation Loans and Private Education Loan assets and, for transactions qualifying as sales, retains a Residual Interest and servicing rights (as the Company retains the servicing responsibilities), all of which are referred to as the Company’s Retained Interest in off-balance sheet securitized loans. The Residual Interest is the right to receive cash flows from the student loans and reserve accounts in excess of the amounts needed to pay servicing, derivative costs (if any), other fees, and the principal and interest on the bonds backed by the student loans.


19


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
5.   Student Loan Securitization (Continued)
 
Securitization Activity
 
The following table summarizes the Company’s securitization activity for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008. Those securitizations listed as sales are off-balance sheet transactions and those listed as financings remain on-balance sheet.
 
                                                                 
    Three Months Ended March 31,  
    2009     2008  
          Loan
    Pre-
                Loan
    Pre-
       
    No. of
    Amount
    Tax
          No. of
    Amount
    Tax
       
(Dollars in millions)
  Transactions     Securitized     Gain     Gain %     Transactions     Securitized     Gain     Gain %  
 
Securitizations — sales:
                                                               
FFELP Stafford/PLUS loans
        $     $       %         $     $       %
FFELP Consolidation Loans
                                               
Private Education Loans
                                               
                                                                 
Total securitizations — sales
              $       %               $       %
                                                                 
Securitizations — financings:
                                                               
FFELP Stafford/PLUS Loans(1)
                                3       4,700                  
FFELP Consolidation Loans(1)
                                                       
Private Education Loans(1)
    1       2,891                                              
                                                                 
Total securitizations — financings
    1       2,891                       3       4,700                  
                                                                 
Total securitizations
    1     $ 2,891                       3     $ 4,700                  
                                                                 
 
 
(1) In certain securitizations there are terms within the deal structure that result in such securitizations not qualifying for sale treatment and accordingly, they are accounted for on-balance sheet as VIEs. Terms that prevent sale treatment include: (1) allowing the Company to hold certain rights that can affect the remarketing of certain bonds, (2) allowing the trust to enter into interest rate cap agreements after the initial settlement of the securitization, which do not relate to the reissuance of third party beneficial interests or (3) allowing the Company to hold an unconditional call option related to a certain percentage of the securitized assets.
 
The following table summarizes cash flows received from or paid to the off-balance sheet securitization trusts during the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                 
    Three Months Ended March 31,  
(Dollars in millions)
  2009     2008  
 
Net proceeds from new securitizations completed during the period
  $     $  
Cash distributions from trusts related to Residual Interests
    114       230  
Servicing fees received(1)
    58       63  
Purchases of previously transferred financial assets for representation and warranty violations
    (3 )     (3 )
Reimbursements of borrower benefits(2)
    (8 )     (7 )
Purchases of delinquent Private Education Loans from securitization trusts using delinquent loan call option
          (48 )
Purchases of loans using clean-up call option
           
 
 
  (1)  The Company receives annual servicing fees of 90 basis points, 50 basis points and 70 basis points of the outstanding securitized loan balance related to its FFELP Stafford, FFELP Consolidation Loan and Private Education Loan securitizations, respectively.  
 
  (2)  Under the terms of the securitizations, the transaction documents require that the Company reimburse the trusts for any borrower benefits afforded the borrowers of the underlying securitized loans.  


20


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
5.   Student Loan Securitization (Continued)
 
 
Retained Interest in Securitized Receivables
 
The following tables summarize the fair value of the Company’s Residual Interests, included in the Company’s Retained Interest (and the assumptions used to value such Residual Interests), along with the underlying off-balance sheet student loans that relate to those securitizations in transactions that were treated as sales as of March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008.
 
                                 
    As of March 31, 2009  
    FFELP
    Consolidation
    Private
       
    Stafford and
    Loan
    Education
       
    PLUS     Trusts(1)     Loan Trusts     Total  
 
Fair value of Residual Interests(2)
  $ 269     $ 832     $ 850     $ 1,951  
Underlying securitized loan balance
    6,765       14,899       13,669       35,333  
Weighted average life
    2.9 yrs.       8.1 yrs.       6.4 yrs.          
Prepayment speed (annual rate)(3)
                               
Interim status
    0 %     N/A       0 %        
Repayment status
    2-19 %     1-6 %     2-15 %        
Life of loan — repayment status
    12 %     4 %     6 %        
Expected remaining credit losses (% of outstanding student loan principal)(4)
    .10 %     .23 %     5.83 %        
Residual cash flows discount rate
    11.1 %     12.1 %     31.5 %        
 
                                 
    As of December 31, 2008  
    FFELP
    Consolidation
    Private
       
    Stafford and
    Loan
    Education
       
(Dollars in millions)
  PLUS     Trusts(1)     Loan Trusts     Total  
 
Fair value of Residual Interests(2)
  $ 250     $ 918     $ 1,032     $ 2,200  
Underlying securitized loan balance
    7,057       15,077       13,690       35,824  
Weighted average life
    3.0 yrs.       8.1 yrs.       6.4 yrs.          
Prepayment speed (annual rate)(3)
                               
Interim status
    0 %     N/A       0 %        
Repayment status
    2-19 %     1-6 %     2-15 %        
Life of loan — repayment status
    12 %     4 %     6 %        
Expected remaining credit losses (% of outstanding student loan principal)(4)
    .11 %     .23 %     5.22 %        
Residual cash flows discount rate
    13.1 %     11.9 %     26.3 %        
 
 
  (1)  Includes $670 million and $762 million related to the fair value of the Embedded Floor Income as of March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. Changes in the fair value of the Embedded Floor Income are primarily due to changes in the interest rates and the paydown of the underlying loans.  
 
  (2)  The Company had no unrealized gains (pre-tax) in accumulated other comprehensive income that related to the Retained Interests for any of the periods presented.  
 
  (3)  The Company uses CPR curves for Residual Interest valuations that are based on seasoning (the number of months since entering repayment). Under this methodology, a different CPR is applied to each year of a loan’s seasoning. Repayment status CPR used is based on the number of months since first entering repayment (seasoning). Life of loan CPR is related to repayment status only and does not include the impact of the loan while in interim status. The CPR assumption used for all periods includes the impact of projected defaults.  
 
  (4)  Remaining expected credit losses as of the respective balance sheet date.  


21


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
5.   Student Loan Securitization (Continued)
 
 
The Company recorded net unrealized mark-to-market losses in “servicing and securitization revenue (loss)” of $261 million and $88 million in the first quarter of 2009 and first quarter of 2008, respectively, related to the Residual Interest.
 
As of March 31, 2009, the Company had changed the following significant assumptions compared to those used as of December 31, 2008, to determine the fair value of the Residual Interests:
 
  •  Life of loan default rate assumptions for Private Education loans were increased as a result of the continued weakening of the U.S. economy. This resulted in a $49 million unrealized mark-to-market loss.
 
  •  The discount rate assumption related to the Private Education Loan was increased. The Company assessed the appropriateness of the current risk premium, which is added to the risk free rate for the purpose of arriving at a discount rate, in light of the current economic and credit uncertainty that exists in the market as of March 31, 2009. This discount rate is applied to the projected cash flows to arrive at a fair value representative of the current economic conditions. The Company increased the risk premium by 500 basis points to take into account the current level of cash flow uncertainty and lack of liquidity that exists with the Residual Interests. This resulted in a $126 million unrealized mark-to-market loss.
 
The following table reflects the sensitivity of the current fair value of the Residual Interests to adverse changes in the key economic assumptions used in the valuation of the Residual Interest at March 31, 2009, discussed in detail in the preceding table. The effect of a variation in a particular assumption on the fair value of the Residual Interest is calculated without changing any other assumption. In reality, changes in one factor may result in changes in another (for example, increases in market interest rates may result in lower prepayments and


22


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
5.   Student Loan Securitization (Continued)
 
increased credit losses), which might magnify or counteract the sensitivities. These sensitivities are hypothetical, as the actual results could be materially different than these estimates.
 
                         
    Three Months Ended March 31, 2009  
    FFELP
    FFELP
       
    Stafford/PLUS
    Consolidation
    Private Education
 
(Dollars in millions)
  Loan Trusts(5)     Loan Trusts(5)     Loan Trusts(5)  
 
Fair value of Residual Interest
  $ 269     $ 832 (1)   $ 850  
Weighted-average life
    2.9 yrs.       8.1 yrs.       6.4 yrs.  
Prepayment speed assumptions(2)
                       
Interim status
    0 %     N/A       0 %
Repayment status
    2-19 %     1-6 %     2-15 %
Life of loan — repayment status
    12 %     4 %     6 %
Impact on fair value of 5% absolute increase
  $ (21 )   $ (110 )   $ (125 )
Impact on fair value of 10% absolute increase
  $ (40 )   $ (193 )   $ (224 )
Expected credit losses (as a % of student loan principal)
    .10 %     .23 %     5.83 %(3)
Impact on fair value of 5% absolute increase in default rate
  $ (3 )   $ (8 )   $ (175 )
Impact on fair value of 10% absolute increase in default rate
  $ (6 )   $ (15 )   $ (349 )
Residual cash flows discount rate
    11.1 %     12.1 %     31.5 %
Impact on fair value of 5% absolute increase
  $ (21 )   $ (133 )   $ (97 )
Impact on fair value of 10% absolute increase
  $ (42 )   $ (231 )   $ (174 )
    3 month LIBOR forward curve
at March 31, 2009 plus contracted spreads
Difference between Asset and Funding underlying indices(4)
                       
Impact on fair value of 0.25% absolute increase in funding index compared to asset index
  $ (41 )   $ (169 )   $ (2 )
Impact on fair value of 0.50% absolute increase in funding index compared to asset index
  $ (86 )   $ (338 )   $ (5 )
 
 
  (1)  Certain consolidation trusts have $3.3 billion of non-U.S. dollar (Euro denominated) bonds outstanding. To convert these non-U.S. dollar denominated bonds into U.S. dollar liabilities, the trusts have entered into foreign-currency swaps with certain counterparties. Additionally, certain Private Education Loan trusts contain interest rate swaps that hedge the basis and reset risk between the Prime indexed assets and LIBOR index notes. As of March 31, 2009, these swaps are in a $759 million gain position (in the aggregate) and the trusts had $581 million of exposure to counterparties (gain position less collateral posted) primarily as a result of the decline in the exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the Euro. This unrealized market value gain is not part of the fair value of the Residual Interest in the table above. Not all derivatives within the trusts require the swap counterparties to post collateral to the respective trust for changes in market value, unless the trust’s swap counterparty’s credit rating has been withdrawn or has been downgraded below a certain level. If the swap counterparty does not post the required collateral or is downgraded further, the counterparty must find a suitable replacement counterparty or provide the trust with a letter of credit or a guaranty from an entity that has the required credit ratings. Ultimately, the Company’s exposure related to a swap counterparty failing to make its payments is limited to the fair value of the related trust’s Residual Interest which was $1.4 billion as of March 31, 2009.  
 
  (2)  See previous table for details on CPR. Impact on fair value due to increase in prepayment speeds only increases the repayment status speeds. Interim status CPR remains 0%.  
 
  (3)  Expected credit losses are used to project future cash flows related to the Private Education Loan securitization’s Residual Interest. However, until the fourth quarter of 2008 when it ceased this activity for all trusts settling prior to September 30, 2005, the Company purchased loans at par when the loans reach 180 days delinquent prior to default under a contingent call option, resulting in no credit losses at the trust nor related to the Company’s Residual Interest. When the Company exercises its contingent call option and purchases the loan from the trust at par, the Company records a loss related to these loans that are now on the Company’s balance sheet. The Company recorded losses of $37 million for the three months ended March 31, 2008, and did not record any losses for the three months ended March 31, 2009, related to this activity. For all trusts settling after October 1, 2005, the Company does not hold this contingent call option.  
 
  (4)  Student loan assets are primarily indexed to a Treasury bill, commercial paper or a prime index. Funding within the trust is primarily indexed to a LIBOR index. Sensitivity analysis increases funding indexes as indicated while keeping asset underlying indexes fixed.  
 
  (5)  In addition to the assumptions in the table above, the Company also projects the reduction in distributions that will result from the various benefit programs that exist related to consecutive on-time payments by borrowers. Related to the entire $2.0 billion Residual Interest, there is $215 million (present value) of benefits projected which reduce the fair value.  


23


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
5.   Student Loan Securitization (Continued)
 
 
The table below shows the Company’s off-balance sheet Private Education Loan delinquency trends as of March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                                 
    Off-Balance Sheet Private Education Loan Delinquencies  
    March 31, 2009     March 31, 2008  
(Dollars in millions)
  Balance     %     Balance     %  
 
Loans in-school/grace/deferment(1)
  $ 3,419             $ 4,780          
Loans in forbearance(2)
    619               1,639          
Loans in repayment and percentage of each status:
                               
Loans current
    8,570       90.0 %     7,128       95.3 %
Loans delinquent 31-60 days(3)
    297       3.1       151       2.0  
Loans delinquent 61-90 days(3)
    222       2.3       75       1.0  
Loans delinquent greater than 90 days(3)
    434       4.6       128       1.7  
                                 
Total off-balance sheet Private Education Loans in repayment
    9,523       100 %     7,482       100 %
                                 
Total off-balance sheet Private Education Loans, gross
  $ 13,561             $ 13,901          
                                 
 
 
  (1)  Loans for borrowers who may be attending school or engaging in other permitted educational activities and are not yet required to make payments on their loans, e.g., residency periods for medical students or a grace period for bar exam preparation.  
 
  (2)  Loans for borrowers who have used their allowable deferment time or do not qualify for deferment, and need additional time to obtain employment or who have temporarily ceased making full payments due to hardship or other factors consistent with the established loan program servicing procedures and programs.  
 
  (3)  The period of delinquency is based on the number of days scheduled payments are contractually past due.  
 
The following table summarizes charge-off activity for Private Education Loans in the off-balance sheet trusts for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                 
    Three Months Ended March 31,  
(Dollars in millions)
  2009     2008  
 
Charge-offs
    63       31  
Charge-offs as a percentage of average loans in repayment (annualized)
    2.7 %     1.7 %
Charge-offs as a percentage of average loans in repayment and forbearance (annualized)
    2.5 %     1.4 %
Ending off-balance sheet total Private Education Loans(1)
  $ 13,669     $ 13,942  
Average off-balance sheet Private Education Loans in repayment
  $ 9,413     $ 7,466  
Ending off-balance sheet Private Education Loans in repayment
  $ 9,523     $ 7,482  
 
 
  (1)  Ending total loans represents gross Private Education Loans, plus the receivable for partially charged-off loans (see Note 2, “Allowance for Loan Losses”).  


24


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
 
6.   Derivative Financial Instruments
 
Derivative instruments that are used as part of the Company’s interest rate and foreign currency risk management strategy include interest rate swaps, basis swaps, cross-currency interest rate swaps, interest rate futures contracts, and interest rate floor and cap contracts with indices that relate to the pricing of specific balance sheet assets and liabilities including the Residual Interests from off-balance sheet securitizations. (For a full discussion of the Company’s risk management strategy and use of derivatives, please see the Company’s 2008 Form 10-K, Note 9, “Derivative Financial Instruments,” to the consolidated financial statements.) The Company accounts for its derivatives under SFAS No. 133 which requires that every derivative instrument, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, be recorded in the balance sheet as either an asset or liability measured at its fair value. The Company’s derivative instruments are classified and accounted for by the Company as either fair value hedges, cash flow hedges or trading activities.
 
Fair Value Hedges
 
Fair value hedges are generally used by the Company to hedge the exposure to changes in fair value of a recognized fixed rate asset or liability. The Company enters into interest rate swaps to convert fixed rate assets into variable rate assets and fixed rate debt into variable rate debt. The Company also enters into cross-currency interest rate swaps to convert foreign currency denominated fixed and floating debt to U.S. dollar denominated variable debt. Changes in value for both the hedge and the hedged item are recorded to earnings. These amounts offset each other with the net amount representing the ineffectiveness of the relationship.
 
Cash Flow Hedges
 
Cash flow hedges are used by the Company to hedge the exposure to variability in cash flows for a forecasted debt issuance and for exposure to variability in cash flows of floating rate debt. This strategy is used primarily to minimize the exposure to volatility from future changes in interest rates. Gains and losses on the effective portion of a qualifying hedge are accumulated in other comprehensive income and ineffectiveness is recorded immediately to earnings.
 
Trading Activities
 
When instruments do not qualify as hedges under SFAS No. 133, they are accounted for as trading where all changes in fair value of the derivatives are recorded through earnings. In general, derivative instruments included in trading activities include Floor Income Contracts, basis swaps and various other derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting under SFAS No. 133.


25


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
6.   Derivative Financial Instruments (Continued)
 
Summary of Derivative Financial Statement Impact
 
The following tables summarize the fair values and notional amounts of all derivative instruments at March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, and their impact on other comprehensive income and earnings for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
Impact of Derivatives on Consolidated Balance Sheet
 
                                                                     
        Cash Flow     Fair Value     Trading     Total  
    Hedged Risk
  Mar. 31,
    Dec. 31,
    Mar. 31,
    Dec. 31,
    Mar. 31,
    Dec. 31,
    Mar. 31,
    Dec. 31,
 
(Dollars in millions)
  Exposure   2009     2008     2009     2008     2009     2008     2009     2008  
 
Fair Values(1)
                                                                   
Derivative Assets
                                                                   
Interest rate swaps
  Interest rate   $     $     $ 1,296     $ 1,529     $ 261     $ 323     $ 1,557     $ 1,852  
Cross currency interest rate swaps
  Foreign currency
and interest rate
                1,863       2,743       25       13       1,888       2,756  
Other(2)
  Interest rate                             64             64        
                                                                     
Total derivative assets(3)
                    3,159       4,272       350       336       3,509       4,608  
Derivative Liabilities
                                                                   
Interest rate swaps
  Interest rate     (134 )     (146 )                 (508 )     (332 )     (642 )     (478 )
Floor/Cap contracts
  Interest rate                             (1,328 )     (1,466 )     (1,328 )     (1,466 )
Futures
  Interest rate                             (3 )     (3 )     (3 )     (3 )
Cross currency interest rate swaps
  Foreign currency
and interest rate
                (737 )     (640 )                 (737 )     (640 )
                                                                     
Total derivative liabilities(3)
        (134 )     (146 )     (737 )     (640 )     (1,839 )     (1,801 )     (2,710 )     (2,587 )
                                                                     
Net total derivatives
      $ (134 )   $ (146 )   $ 2,422     $ 3,632     $ (1,489 )   $ (1,465 )   $ 799     $ 2,021  
                                                                     
 
 
(1) Fair values reported are exclusive of collateral held and pledged and accrued interest. Assets and liabilities are presented without consideration of master netting agreements. Derivatives are carried on the balance sheet based on net position by counterparty under master netting agreements, and classified in other assets or other liabilities depending on whether in a net positive or negative position.
 
(2) “Other” includes the fair value of the unused portion of the total return swap related to the $1.5 billion asset-backed securities based facility which closed in January 2009. This is considered a derivative under SFAS No. 133.
 
(3) The following table reconciles gross positions without the impact of master netting agreements to the balance sheet classification:
 
                                 
    Other Assets     Other Liabilities  
    March 31,     December 31,     March 31,     December 31,  
    2009     2008     2009     2008  
 
Gross position
  $ 3,509     $ 4,608     $ (2,710 )   $ (2,587 )
Impact of master netting agreements
    (1,373 )     (1,594 )     1,373       1,594  
                                 
Derivative values with impact of master netting agreements
  $ 2,136     $ 3,014     $ (1,337 )   $ (993 )
                                 
 


26


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
6.   Derivative Financial Instruments (Continued)
 
                                                                 
    Cash Flow     Fair Value     Trading     Total  
    Mar. 31,
    Dec. 31,
    Mar. 31,
    Dec. 31,
    Mar. 31,
    Dec. 31,
    Mar. 31,
    Dec. 31,
 
(Dollars in billions)
  2009     2008     2009     2008     2009     2008     2009     2008  
 
Notional Values
                                                               
Interest rate swaps
  $ 4.5     $ 4.8     $ 11.0     $ 13.4     $ 157.1     $ 159.3     $ 172.6     $ 177.5  
Floor/Cap contracts
                            38.1       32.4       38.1       32.4  
Futures
                            .2       .2       .2       .2  
Cross currency interest rate swaps
                22.6       23.1       .3       .1       22.9       23.2  
Other(1)
                            1.1       .7       1.1       .7  
                                                                 
Total derivatives
  $ 4.5     $ 4.8     $ 33.6     $ 36.5     $ 196.8     $ 192.7     $ 234.9     $ 234.0  
                                                                 
 
 
(1) “Other” includes embedded derivatives bifurcated from newly issued on-balance sheet securitization debt, as a result of adopting SFAS No. 155 as well as the unused portion of the total return swap discussed in footnote 2 to the table above.
 
Impact of Derivatives on Consolidated Statements of Income
 
                                                                 
    Three Months Ended March 31,  
    Unrealized Gain
                   
    (Loss) on
    Realized Gain (Loss)
    Unrealized Gain (Loss)
       
    Derivatives(1)(2)     on Derivatives(3)     on Hedged Item(1)     Total Gain (Loss)  
(Dollars in millions)
  2009     2008     2009     2008     2009     2008     2009     2008  
 
Fair Value Hedges
                                                               
Interest rate swaps
  $ (183 )   $ 404     $ 79     $ 4     $ 194     $ (402 )   $ 90     $ 6  
Cross currency interest rate swaps
    (922 )     1,893       76       79       1,023       (1,833 )     177       139  
                                                                 
Total fair value derivatives
    (1,105 )     2,297       155       83       1,217       (2,235 )     267       145  
Cash Flow Hedges
                                                               
Interest rate swaps
    4             (18 )     (9 )                 (14 )     (9 )
                                                                 
Total cash flow derivatives
    4             (18 )     (9 )                 (14 )     (9 )
Trading
                                                               
Interest rate swaps
    (300 )     (132 )     229       232                   (71 )     100  
Floor/Cap contracts
    167       (295 )     (140 )     (140 )                 27       (435 )
Futures
          1                                     1  
Cross currency interest rate swaps
    (32 )                                   (32 )      
Other
    64                   (1 )                 64       (1 )
                                                                 
Total trading derivatives
    (101 )     (426 )     89       91                   (12 )     (335 )
                                                                 
Total
    (1,202 )     1,871       226       165       1,217       (2,235 )     241       (199 )
Less: realized gains (losses) recorded in interest expense
                137       74                   137       74  
                                                                 
Gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities, net
  $ (1,202 )   $ 1,871     $ 89     $ 91     $ 1,217       (2,235 )   $ 104     $ (273 )
                                                                 
 
 
(1) Recorded in “Gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities, net” in the consolidated statements of income.
 
(2) Represents ineffectiveness related to cash flow hedges.
 
(3) For fair value and cash flow hedges, recorded in interest expense. For trading derivatives, recorded in “Gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities, net.”

27


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
6.   Derivative Financial Instruments (Continued)
 
 
Impact of Derivatives on Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity (net of tax)
 
                 
    Interest Rate Swaps  
    Three Months Ended March 31,  
(Dollars in millions)
  2009     2008  
 
Total gains (losses) on cash flow hedges
  $ (4 )   $ (37 )
Realized (gains) losses reclassified to interest expense(1)(2)(3)
    11       5  
Hedge ineffectiveness reclassified to earnings(1)(4)
    (2 )      
                 
Total change in stockholders’ equity for unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives
  $ 5     $ (32 )
                 
 
 
  (1)  Amounts included in “Impact of Derivatives on Consolidated Statements of Income” table above.  
  (2)  Includes net settlement income/expense.  
  (3)  The Company expects to reclass $0.1 million of after-tax net losses from accumulated other comprehensive income to earnings during the next 12 months related to net settlement accruals on interest rate swaps.  
  (4)  Recorded in “Gains (losses) derivatives and hedging activities, net” in the consolidated statements of income.  
 
Collateral
 
Collateral held and pledged at March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008 related to derivative exposures between the Company and its derivative counterparties are detailed in the following table:
 
                 
(Dollars in millions)
  March 31, 2009     December 31, 2008  
 
Collateral held:
               
Cash (obligation to return cash collateral is recorded in short-term borrowings)(1)
  $ 911     $ 1,624  
Securities at fair value — corporate derivatives (not recorded in financial statements)(2)
    491       689  
Securities at fair value — on-balance sheet securitization derivatives (not recorded in financial statements)(3)
    534       688  
                 
Total collateral held
  $ 1,936     $ 3,001  
                 
Derivative asset at fair value including accrued interest
  $ 2,523     $ 3,741  
                 
Collateral pledged to others:
               
Cash (right to receive return of cash collateral is recorded in investments)
  $ 86     $  
Securities at fair value (recorded in investments)(4)
    18       26  
Securities at fair value re-pledged (not recorded in financial statements)(5)(6)
    405       191  
                 
Total collateral pledged
  $ 509     $ 217  
                 
Derivative liability at fair value including accrued interest and premium receivable
  $ 1,111     $ 677  
                 
 
 
(1) In general, cash collateral is held in unrestricted cash accounts. Further downgrade in the Company’s unsecured credit ratings could result in the Company being required to move cash collateral held to restricted accounts.
(2) In general, the Company has the ability to sell or re-pledge securities it holds as collateral.
(3) The trusts do not have the ability to sell or re-pledge securities they hold as collateral.
(4) Counterparty does not have the right to sell or re-pledge securities.
(5) Counterparty has the right to sell or re-pledge securities.
(6) Represents securities the Company holds as collateral that have been pledged to other counterparties.


28


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
6.   Derivative Financial Instruments (Continued)
 
 
Additionally, as of March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, $232 million and $340 million, respectively, in collateral related to off-balance sheet trust derivatives were held by these off-balance sheet trusts. Collateral posted by third parties to the off-balance sheet trusts cannot be sold or re-pledged by the trusts.
 
7.   Other Assets
 
The following table provides the detail of the Company’s other assets at March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008.
 
                                 
    March 31, 2009     December 31, 2008  
    Ending
    % of
    Ending
    % of
 
    Balance     Balance     Balance     Balance  
 
Accrued interest receivable
  $ 3,008,379       31 %   $ 3,466,404       31 %
Derivatives at fair value
    2,135,879       22       3,013,644       27  
Income tax asset
    1,698,342       18       1,661,039       15  
APG Purchased paper receivables and Real Estate Owned
    994,735       10       1,222,345       11  
Benefit and insurance-related investments
    473,966       5       472,899       4  
Fixed assets, net
    307,726       3       313,059       3  
Accounts receivable — general
    655,354       7       712,854       6  
Other
    423,950       4       278,533       3  
                                 
Total
  $ 9,698,331       100 %   $ 11,140,777       100 %
                                 
 
The “Derivatives at fair value” line in the above table represents the fair value of the Company’s derivatives in a gain position by counterparty exclusive of accrued interest and collateral. At March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, these balances primarily included cross-currency interest rate swaps and interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges that were offset by an increase in interest-bearing liabilities related to the hedged debt. As of March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, the cumulative mark-to-market adjustment to the hedged debt was $(2.1) billion and $(3.4) billion, respectively.


29


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
8.   Stockholders’ Equity
 
The following table summarizes the Company’s common share repurchases and issuances for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                 
    Three Months Ended
 
    March 31,  
(Shares in millions)
  2009     2008  
 
Common shares repurchased:
               
Benefit plans(1)
    .1       .3  
                 
Total shares repurchased
    .1       .3  
                 
Average purchase price per share
  $ 24.25     $ 19.82  
                 
Common shares issued
    .3       1.2  
                 
Authority remaining at end of period for repurchases
    38.8       38.8  
                 
 
 
(1) Includes shares withheld from stock option exercises and vesting of restricted stock for employees’ tax withholding obligations and shares tendered by employees to satisfy option exercise costs.
 
The closing price of the Company’s common stock on March 31, 2009 was $4.95.
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) includes the after-tax change in unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale investments, unrealized gains and losses on derivatives, and the defined benefit pension plans adjustment. The following table presents the cumulative balances of the components of other comprehensive income (loss) as of March 31, 2009, December 31, 2008 and March 31, 2008.
 
                         
    March 31,
    December 31,
    March 31,
 
    2009     2008     2008  
 
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments(1)
  $ (293 )   $ (1,243 )   $ 31,588  
Net unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives(2)
    (88,577 )     (93,986 )     (54,148 )
Defined benefit pension plans:
                       
Net prior service cost
                 
Net gain
    18,420       18,753       20,166  
                         
Total defined benefit pension plans(3)
    18,420       18,753       20,166  
                         
Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
  $ (70,450 )   $ (76,476 )   $ (2,394 )
                         
 
 
(1) Net of tax benefit of $554 and $750 as of March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively, and tax expense of $17,773 as of March 31, 2008.
 
(2) Net of tax benefit of $51,377, $53,419 and $30,551 as of March 31, 2009, December 31, 2008 and March 31, 2008, respectively.
 
(3) Net of tax expense of $10,958, $10,967 and $11,677 as of March 31, 2009, December 31, 2008 and March 31, 2008, respectively.


30


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
 
9.   Earnings (Loss) per Common Share
 
Basic earnings (loss) per common share (“EPS”) are calculated using the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during each period. A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted EPS calculations follows for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                 
    Three Months Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Numerator:
               
Net loss attributable to SLM Corporation common stock
  $ (47,781 )   $ (132,829 )
Adjusted for dividends of convertible preferred stock series C(1)
           
                 
Net loss attributable to SLM Corporation common stock, adjusted
  $ (47,781 )   $ (132,829 )
                 
Denominator (shares in thousands):
               
Weighted average shares used to compute basic EPS
    466,761       466,580  
Effect of dilutive securities:
               
Dilutive effect of convertible preferred stock series C
           
Dilutive effect of stock options, non-vested deferred compensation, non-vested restricted stock, restricted stock units and Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”)(2)
           
                 
Dilutive potential common shares(3)
           
                 
Weighted average shares used to compute diluted EPS
    466,761       466,580  
                 
Net loss per share:
               
Basic loss per common share attributable to SLM Corporation common shareholders
  $ (.10 )   $ (.28 )
Dilutive effect of convertible preferred stock series C(1)
           
Dilutive effect of stock options, non-vested deferred compensation, non-vested restricted stock, restricted stock units, and ESPP(2)
           
                 
Diluted loss per common share attributable to SLM Corporation common shareholders
  $ (.10 )   $ (.28 )
                 
 
 
  (1)  The Company’s 7.25 percent mandatory convertible preferred stock series C was issued on December 31, 2007. The mandatory convertible preferred stock will automatically convert on December 15, 2010, into between 48 million shares and 59 million shares of common stock, depending upon the Company’s stock price at that time. These instruments were anti-dilutive for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.  
 
  (2)  Includes the potential dilutive effect of additional common shares that are issuable upon exercise of outstanding stock options, non-vested deferred compensation and restricted stock, restricted stock units, and the outstanding commitment to issue shares under the ESPP, determined by the treasury stock method.  
 
  (3)  For the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008, stock options covering approximately 45 million and 48 million shares, respectively, were outstanding but not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because they were anti-dilutive.  


31


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
 
10.   Other Income
 
The following table summarizes the components of “Other income” in the consolidated statements of income for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                 
    Three Months Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Late fees and forbearance fees
  $ 36,712     $ 37,155  
Asset servicing and other transaction fees
    25,055       25,868  
Loan servicing fees
    10,046       6,652  
Gains on debt repurchases
    63,755        
Foreign currency translation gains
    39,684       169  
Other
    17,206       23,689  
                 
Total
  $ 192,458     $ 93,533  
                 
 
The increase in other income for the three months ended March 31, 2009 compared to the year-ago quarter was primarily due to two items. The Company repurchased debt and recorded $64 million in related gains in the first quarter of 2009. Also contributing to the increase in other income was a foreign currency translation gain recorded in connection with the Company’s international non-mortgage purchased paper business, which was sold in the first quarter of 2009. This translation gain also related to a small amount of foreign currency denominated debt for which the Company does not receive hedge accounting treatment under SFAS No. 133. The Company hedges both of these exposures with derivatives. An offsetting loss was recognized during the current quarter in the “gains (losses) on derivative hedging activities, net” line on the consolidated statement of income.
 
11.   Restructuring Activities
 
During the fourth quarter of 2007, the Company initiated a restructuring program to reduce costs and improve operating efficiencies in response to the impacts of The College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007 (“CCRAA”) and current challenges in the capital markets. As part of this review, the Company has refocused its lending activities, and exited certain customer relationships and product lines. Management estimates approximately $10 million of additional restructuring expenses associated with the Company’s current cost reduction efforts will be incurred and the Company’s current restructuring plan will be substantially complete by the end of 2009. These estimated additional restructuring costs relate primarily to position eliminations and resulting employee terminations as well as lease termination costs in the Company’s Asset Performance Group (“APG”) business segment. During 2009, Management will continue to review the Company’s business to determine whether there are other opportunities to further streamline the business.


32


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
11.   Restructuring Activities (Continued)
 
The following table summarizes the restructuring expenses incurred during the quarters ended March 31, 2009 and 2008 and cumulative restructuring expenses incurred through March 31, 2009.
 
                         
                Cumulative
 
    Three Months Ended
    Expense as of
 
    March 31,     March 31,
 
    2009     2008     2009  
 
Severance costs
  $ 2,666     $ 14,869     $ 88,029  
Lease and other contract termination costs
    675       435       10,192  
Exit and other costs
    1,432       5,374       12,832  
                         
Total(1)
  $ 4,773     $ 20,678     $ 111,053  
                         
 
 
  (1)  Aggregate restructuring expenses incurred across the Company’s reportable segments during the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008 totaled $1 million and $15 million, respectively, in the Company’s Lending reportable segment, $2 million and $1 million, respectively, in the Company’s APG reportable segment, and $2 million and $5 million, respectively, in the Company’s Corporate and Other reportable segment.  
 
As of March 31, 2009 and 2008, severance costs were incurred in conjunction with aggregate completed and planned position eliminations of approximately 2,900 and 600 positions, respectively, across all of the Company’s reportable segments, with position eliminations ranging from senior executives to clerical personnel. Lease and other contract termination costs and exit and other costs incurred during the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008 related primarily to terminated or abandoned facility leases and consulting costs incurred in conjunction with various cost reduction and exit strategies.
 
The following table summarizes the restructuring liability balance, which is included in other liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.
 
                                 
          Lease and
             
          Other
             
          Contract
             
    Severance
    Termination
    Exit and
       
    Costs     Costs     Other Costs     Total  
 
Balance at December 31, 2007
  $ 18,329     $     $     $ 18,329  
Net accruals
    62,858       9,517       11,400       83,775  
Cash paid
    (66,063 )     (6,719 )     (11,340 )     (84,122 )
                                 
Balance at December 31, 2008
  $ 15,124     $ 2,798     $ 60     $ 17,982  
                                 
Net accruals
  $ 2,666     $ 675     $ 1,432     $ 4,773  
Cash paid
    (8,996 )     (498 )     (1,188 )     (10,682 )
                                 
Balance at March 31, 2009
  $ 8,794     $ 2,975     $ 304     $ 12,073  
                                 


33


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
12.  Fair Value Measurements
 
The following tables summarize the valuation of the Company’s financial instruments that are marked-to-market on a recurring basis in the financial statements as of March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008.
 
                                                 
    Fair Value Measurements on a Recurring
 
    Basis as of March 31, 2009  
                            Cash
       
(Dollars in millions)
  Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     Total     Collateral     Net  
 
Assets
                                               
Available for sale investments
  $     $ 547     $     $ 547     $     $ 547  
Retained Interest in off-balance sheet securitized loans
                1,951       1,951             1,951  
Derivative instruments(1)(2)
          1,699       437       2,136       (911 )     1,225  
                                                 
Total Assets
  $     $ 2,246     $ 2,388     $ 4,634     $ (911 )   $ 3,723  
                                                 
Liabilities(3)
                                               
Derivative instruments(1)(2)
  $ (3 )   $ (1,334 )   $     $ (1,337 )   $ 86     $ (1,251 )
                                                 
Total Liabilities
  $ (3 )   $ (1,334 )   $     $ (1,337 )   $ 86     $ (1,251 )
                                                 
 
                                                 
    Fair Value Measurements on a Recurring
 
    Basis as of December 31, 2008  
                            Cash
       
(Dollars in millions)
  Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     Total     Collateral     Net  
 
Assets
                                               
Available for sale investments
  $     $ 861     $     $ 861     $     $ 861  
Retained Interest in off-balance sheet securitized loans
                2,200       2,200             2,200  
Derivative instruments(1)(2)
          3,014             3,014       (1,624 )     1,390  
                                                 
Total Assets
  $     $ 3,875     $ 2,200     $ 6,075     $ (1,624 )   $ 4,451  
                                                 
Liabilities(3)
                                               
Derivative instruments(1)(2)
  $ (3 )   $ (648 )   $ (341 )   $ (992 )   $     $ (992 )
                                                 
Total Liabilities
  $ (3 )   $ (648 )   $ (341 )   $ (992 )   $     $ (992 )
                                                 
 
 
(1) Fair value of derivative instruments is comprised of market value less accrued interest and excludes collateral.
 
(2) Level 1 derivatives include euro-dollar futures contracts. Level 2 derivatives include derivatives indexed to interest rate indices and currencies that are considered liquid. Level 3 derivatives include derivatives indexed to illiquid interest rate indices and derivatives for which significant adjustments were made to observable inputs.
 
(3) Borrowings which are the hedged items in a fair value hedge relationship and which are adjusted for changes in value due to benchmark interest rates only are not carried at full fair value and are not reflected in this table.


34


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
12.   Fair Value Measurements (Continued)
 
 
The following table summarizes the change in balance sheet carrying value associated with Level 3 financial instruments carried at fair value on a recurring basis during the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                                                 
    Three Months Ended March 31,  
    2009     2008  
    Residual
    Derivative
          Residual
    Derivative
       
(Dollars in millions)
  Interests     Instruments     Total     Interests     Instruments     Total  
 
Balance, beginning of period
  $ 2,200     $ (341 )   $ 1,859     $ 3,044     $ (71 )   $ 2,973  
Total gains/(losses) (realized and unrealized):
                                               
Included in earnings(1)
    (135 )     (330 )     (465 )     60       10       70  
Included in other comprehensive income
                                   
Purchases, issuances and settlements
    (114 )     40       (74 )     (230 )     9       (221 )
Transfers in and/or out of Level 3
          1,068       1,068                    
                                                 
Balance, end of period
  $ 1,951     $ 437     $ 2,388     $ 2,874     $ (52 )   $ 2,822  
                                                 
Change in unrealized gains/(losses) relating to instruments still held at the reporting date
  $ (261 )(2)   $ (284 )(3)   $ (545 )   $ (88 )(2)   $ 19 (3)   $ (69 )
                                                 
 
 
(1) “Included in earnings” is comprised of the following amounts recorded in the specified line item in the consolidated statements of income:
 
                 
    Three Months
 
    Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Servicing and securitization revenue (loss)
  $ (135 )   $ 60  
Gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities, net
    (292 )     10  
Interest expense
    (38 )      
                 
Total
  $ (465 )   $ 70  
                 
 
(2) Recorded in “servicing and securitization revenue (loss)” in the consolidated statements of income.
 
(3) Recorded in “gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities, net” in the consolidated statements of income.
 
In addition, at March 31, 2009, the Company had real estate owned assets, related to its Purchased Paper — Mortgage/Properties business, held on its balance sheet at fair value totaling $194 million. These assets are carried at the lower of cost or fair value and as such are marked-to-market on a non-recurring basis. Fair value is determined using significant unobservable inputs primarily based on broker price opinions and are considered Level 3 valuations.


35


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
12.   Fair Value Measurements (Continued)
 
 
The following table summarizes the fair values of the Company’s financial assets and liabilities, including derivative financial instruments, as of March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008.
 
                                                 
    March 31, 2009     December 31, 2008  
    Fair
    Carrying
          Fair
    Carrying
       
(Dollars in millions)
  Value     Value     Difference     Value     Value     Difference  
 
Earning assets
                                               
FFELP loans
  $ 118,469     $ 128,730     $ (10,261 )   $ 107,319     $ 124,220     $ (16,901 )
Private Education Loans
    17,026       21,644       (4,618 )     14,141       20,582       (6,441 )
Other loans
    560       685       (125 )     619       729       (110 )
Cash and investments
    7,604       7,604             8,646       8,646        
                                                 
Total earning assets
    143,659       158,663       (15,004 )     130,725       154,177       (23,452 )
                                                 
Interest-bearing liabilities
                                               
Short-term borrowings
    45,723       46,332       609       41,608       41,933       325  
Long-term borrowings
    91,536       116,669       25,133       93,462       118,225       24,763  
                                                 
Total interest-bearing liabilities
    137,259       163,001       25,742       135,070       160,158       25,088  
                                                 
Derivative financial instruments
                                               
Floor Income/Cap contracts
    (1,328 )     (1,328 )           (1,466 )     (1,466 )      
Interest rate swaps
    915       915             1,374       1,374        
Cross currency interest rate swaps
    1,151       1,151             2,116       2,116        
Futures contracts
    (3 )     (3 )           (3 )     (3 )      
Other
    64       64                          
Other
                                               
Residual interest in securitized assets
    1,951       1,951             2,200       2,200        
                                                 
Excess of net asset fair value over carrying value
                  $ 10,738                     $ 1,636  
                                                 
 
13.     Contingencies
 
In the ordinary course of business, the Company and its subsidiaries are routinely defendants in or parties to pending and threatened legal actions and proceedings including actions brought on behalf of various classes of claimants. These actions and proceedings may be based on alleged violations of consumer protection, securities, employment and other laws. In certain of these actions and proceedings, claims for substantial monetary damage are asserted against the Company and its subsidiaries.
 
In the ordinary course of business, the Company and its subsidiaries are subject to regulatory examinations, information gathering requests, inquiries and investigations. In connection with formal and informal inquiries in these cases, the Company and its subsidiaries receive numerous requests, subpoenas and orders for documents, testimony and information in connection with various aspects of the Company’s regulated activities.
 
In view of the inherent difficulty of predicting the outcome of such litigation and regulatory matters, the Company cannot predict what the eventual outcome of the pending matters will be, what the timing or the ultimate resolution of these matters will be, or what the eventual loss, fines or penalties related to each pending matter may be.


36


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
13.     Contingencies (Continued)
 
In accordance with SFAS No. 5, “Accounting for Contingencies,” the Company is required to establish reserves for litigation and regulatory matters when those matters present loss contingencies that are both probable and estimable. When loss contingencies are not both probable and estimable, the Company does not establish reserves.
 
Based on current knowledge, reserves have not been established for any pending litigation or regulatory matters. Based on current knowledge, management does not believe that loss contingencies, if any, arising from pending litigation or regulatory matters will have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position or liquidity of the Company.
 
14.     Income Taxes
 
For the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008, the Company reported an income tax benefit of $32 million and $62 million, respectively, representing effective tax rates of 60 percent and 38 percent, respectively. The movement in the effective tax rate was primarily driven by the impact of state rate changes and state law changes recorded discretely in the three months ended March 31, 2009.
 
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes
 
As of March 31, 2009, the Company has gross unrecognized tax benefits of $96 million. Included in the $96 million are $21 million of unrecognized tax benefits that if recognized, would favorably impact the effective tax rate. In addition, as of March 31, 2009, the Company has accrued interest and penalties, net of tax benefit, of $9 million. The unrecognized tax benefits changed from $86 million at December 31, 2008 to $96 million at March 31, 2009, and the accrued interest and penalties changed from $10 million at December 31, 2008 to $9 million at March 31, 2009. These changes result primarily from incorporating into the Company’s FIN No. 48 analysis new information received from the IRS during the first quarter as a part of the 2005-2006 exam cycle and from adding a new issue that was identified while completing the 2008 federal income tax return. Several other less significant amounts of uncertain tax benefits were also added during the quarter.
 
15.     Segment Reporting
 
The Company has two primary operating segments as defined in SFAS No. 131, “Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information” — the Lending operating segment and the APG, formerly known as DMO, operating segment. The Lending and APG operating segments meet the quantitative thresholds for reportable segments identified in SFAS No. 131. Accordingly, the results of operations of the Company’s Lending and APG segments are presented below. The Company has smaller operating segments including the Guarantor Servicing, Loan Servicing, and Upromise operating segments, as well as certain other products and services provided to colleges and universities which do not meet the quantitative thresholds identified in SFAS No. 131. Therefore, the results of operations for these operating segments and the revenues and expenses associated with these other products and services are combined with corporate overhead and other corporate activities within the Corporate and Other reportable segment.
 
The management reporting process measures the performance of the Company’s operating segments based on the management structure of the Company as well as the methodology used by management to evaluate performance and allocate resources. Management, including the Company’s chief operating decision makers, evaluates the performance of the Company’s operating segments based on their profitability. As discussed further below, management measures the profitability of the Company’s operating segments based on “Core Earnings” net income. Accordingly, information regarding the Company’s reportable segments is provided based on a “Core Earnings” basis. The Company’s “Core Earnings” performance measures are not defined terms within GAAP and may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other


37


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
15.   Segment Reporting (Continued)
 
companies. “Core Earnings” net income reflects only current period adjustments to GAAP net income as described below. Unlike financial accounting, there is no comprehensive, authoritative guidance for management reporting. The management reporting process measures the performance of the operating segments based on the management structure of the Company and is not necessarily comparable with similar information for any other financial institution. The Company’s operating segments are defined by the products and services they offer or the types of customers they serve, and they reflect the manner in which financial information is currently evaluated by management. Intersegment revenues and expenses are netted within the appropriate financial statement line items consistent with the income statement presentation provided to management. Changes in management structure or allocation methodologies and procedures may result in changes in reported segment financial information.
 
The Company’s principal operations are located in the United States, and its results of operations and long-lived assets in geographic regions outside of the United States are not significant. In the Lending segment, no individual customer accounted for more than 10 percent of its total revenue during the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008. United Student Aid Funds, Inc. (“USA Funds”) is the Company’s largest customer in both the APG and Corporate and Other segments. During the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008, USA Funds accounted for 23 percent and 26 percent, respectively, of the aggregate revenues generated by the Company’s APG and Corporate and Other segments. No other customers accounted for more than 10 percent of total revenues in those segments for the years mentioned.
 
Lending
 
In the Company’s Lending operating segment, the Company originates and acquires both FFELP loans and Private Education Loans. As of March 31, 2009, the Company managed $185.3 billion of student loans, of which $150.9 billion or 81 percent are federally insured, and has 10 million student and parent customers. In the three months ended March 31, 2009, the Company originated $4 million in mortgage loans which were sold. The Company’s mortgage and consumer loan portfolio totaled $465 million at March 31, 2009.
 
Private Education Loans consist of two general types: (1) those that are designed to bridge the gap between the cost of higher education and the amount financed through either capped federally insured loans or the borrowers’ resources, and (2) those that are used to meet the needs of students in alternative learning programs such as career training, distance learning and lifelong learning programs. Most higher education Private Education Loans are made in conjunction with a FFELP loan and as such are marketed through the same channel as FFELP loans by the same sales force. Unlike FFELP loans, Private Education Loans are subject to the full credit risk of the borrower. The Company manages this additional risk through historical risk-performance underwriting strategies, the addition of qualified cosigners and a combination of higher interest rates and loan origination fees that compensate the Company for the higher risk.
 
APG
 
The Company’s APG operating segment provides a wide range of accounts receivable and collections services including student loan default aversion services, defaulted student loan portfolio management services, contingency collections services for student loans and other asset classes, and accounts receivable management and collection for purchased portfolios of receivables that are delinquent or have been charged off by their original creditors, and sub-performing and non-performing mortgage loans. The Company’s APG operating segment serves the student loan marketplace through a broad array of default management services on a contingency fee or other pay-for-performance basis to 14 FFELP guarantors and for campus-based programs.


38


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
15.   Segment Reporting (Continued)
 
In addition to collecting on its own purchased receivables and mortgage loans, the APG operating segment provides receivable management and collection services for federal agencies, credit card clients and other holders of consumer debt.
 
The Company concluded in 2008 that its APG purchased paper business no longer produced a strategic fit, and the Company decided to wind down this business. Due to the continued weakening of the U.S. economy, during the first quarter of 2009, the Company recorded $74 million of impairment related to declines in the fair value of mortgage loans and real estate held by the Company’s mortgage purchased paper subsidiary and $3 million of impairment related to the Company’s non-mortgage purchase paper subsidiary. These impairments are recorded within collections revenue (loss) as they are not considered restructuring expenses.
 
Corporate and Other
 
The Company’s Corporate and Other segment includes the aggregate activity of its smaller operating segments, primarily its Guarantor Servicing, Loan Servicing and Upromise operating segments. Corporate and Other also includes several smaller products and services, as well as corporate overhead.
 
In the Guarantor Servicing operating segment, the Company provides a full complement of administrative services to FFELP guarantors including guarantee issuance, account maintenance, and guarantee fulfillment. In the Loan Servicing operating segment, the Company provides a full complement of activities required to service student loans on behalf of lenders who are unrelated to the Company. Such servicing activities generally commence once a loan has been fully disbursed and include sending out payment coupons to borrowers, processing borrower payments, originating and disbursing FFELP Consolidation Loans on behalf of the lender, and other administrative activities required by ED.
 
Upromise markets and administers a consumer savings network and also provides program management, transfer and servicing agent services, and administration services for 529 college-savings plans. The Company’s other products and services include comprehensive financing and loan delivery solutions that it provides to college financial aid offices and students to streamline the financial aid process. Corporate overhead includes all of the typical headquarter functions such as executive management, accounting and finance, human resources and marketing.
 
Measure of Profitability
 
The tables below include the condensed operating results for each of the Company’s reportable segments. Management, including the chief operating decision makers, evaluates the Company on certain performance measures that the Company refers to as “Core Earnings” performance measures for each operating segment. While “Core Earnings” results are not a substitute for reported results under GAAP, the Company relies on “Core Earnings” performance measures to manage each operating segment because it believes these measures provide additional information regarding the operational and performance indicators that are most closely assessed by management.
 
“Core Earnings” performance measures are the primary financial performance measures used by management to develop the Company’s financial plans, track results, and establish corporate performance targets and incentive compensation. Management believes this information provides additional insight into the financial performance of the core business activities of its operating segments. Accordingly, the tables presented below reflect “Core Earnings” operating measures reviewed and utilized by management to manage the business. Reconciliation of the “Core Earnings” segment totals to the Company’s consolidated operating results in accordance with GAAP is also included in the tables below.


39


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
15.   Segment Reporting (Continued)
 
Segment Results and Reconciliations to GAAP
 
                                                 
    Three Months Ended March 31, 2009  
                Corporate
    Total “Core
          Total
 
(Dollars in millions)
  Lending     APG     and Other     Earnings”     Adjustments(2)     GAAP  
 
Interest income:
                                               
FFELP Stafford and Other Student Loans
  $ 362     $     $     $ 362     $ (19 )   $ 343  
FFELP Consolidation Loans
    439                   439       50       489  
Private Education Loans
    563                   563       (176 )     387  
Other loans
    16                   16             16  
Cash and investments
    3             5       8       (2 )     6  
                                                 
Total interest income
    1,383             5       1,388       (147 )     1,241  
Total interest expense
    949       6       4       959       67       1,026  
                                                 
Net interest income (loss)
    434       (6 )     1       429       (214 )     215  
Less: provisions for loan losses
    349                   349       (99 )     250  
                                                 
Net interest income (loss) after provisions for loan losses
    85       (6 )     1       80       (115 )     (35 )
Contingency fee revenue
          75             75             75  
Collections revenue (loss)
          (22 )           (22 )           (22 )
Guarantor servicing fees
                34       34             34  
Other income
    102             49       151       50       201  
                                                 
Total other income
    102       53       83       238       50       288  
Restructuring expenses
    1       2       2       5             5  
Operating expenses
    131       88       72       291       10       301  
                                                 
Total expenses
    132       90       74       296       10       306  
                                                 
Income (loss) before income tax expense (benefit)
    55       (43 )     10       22       (75 )     (53 )
Income tax expense (benefit)(1)
    21       (16 )     3       8       (40 )     (32 )
Less: net income attributable to noncontrolling interest
                                     
                                                 
Net income (loss) attributable to SLM Corporation
  $ 34     $ (27 )   $ 7     $ 14     $ (35 )   $ (21 )
                                                 
 
 
(1) Income taxes are based on a percentage of net income before tax for each individual reportable segment.
 
(2) “Core Earnings” adjustments to GAAP:
 
                                         
    Three Months Ended March 31, 2009
    Net Impact of
  Net Impact of
      Net Impact
   
    Securitization
  Derivative
  Net Impact of
  of Acquired
   
(Dollars in millions)
  Accounting   Accounting   Floor Income   Intangibles   Total
 
Net interest income (loss)
  $ (243 )   $ (50 )   $ 79     $     $ (214 )
Less: provisions for loan losses
    (99 )                       (99 )
                                         
Net interest income (loss) after provisions for loan losses
    (144 )     (50 )     79             (115 )
Contingency fee revenue
                             
Collections revenue (loss)
                             
Guarantor servicing fees
                             
Other income (loss)
    (54 )     104                   50  
                                         
Total other income (loss)
    (54 )     104                   50  
Restructuring expenses
                             
Operating expenses
                      10       10  
                                         
Total expenses
                      10       10  
                                         
Total pre-tax “Core Earnings” adjustments to GAAP
  $ (198 )   $ 54     $ 79     $ (10 )     (75 )
                                         
Income tax benefit
                                    (40 )
Less: net income attributable to noncontrolling interest
                                     
                                         
Total “Core Earnings” adjustments to GAAP
                                  $ (35 )
                                         
 


40


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
15.   Segment Reporting (Continued)
 
                                                 
    Three Months Ended March 31, 2008  
                Corporate
    Total “Core
          Total
 
(Dollars in millions)
  Lending     APG     and Other     Earnings”     Adjustments(2)     GAAP  
 
Interest income:
                                               
FFELP Stafford and Other Student Loans
  $ 494     $     $     $ 494     $ (30 )   $ 464  
FFELP Consolidation Loans
    989                   989       (152 )     837  
Private Education Loans
    749                   749       (305 )     444  
Other loans
    23                   23             23  
Cash and investments
    142             6       148       (24 )     124  
                                                 
Total interest income
    2,397             6       2,403       (511 )     1,892  
Total interest expense
    1,824       7       5       1,836       (220 )     1,616  
                                                 
Net interest income (loss)
    573       (7 )     1       567       (291 )     276  
Less: provisions for loan losses
    181                   181       (44 )     137  
                                                 
Net interest income (loss) after provisions for loan losses
    392       (7 )     1       386       (247 )     139  
Contingency fee revenue
          85             85             85  
Collections revenue
          56             56       1       57  
Guarantor servicing fees
                35       35             35  
Other income (loss)
    44             51       95       (201 )     (106 )
                                                 
Total other income (loss)
    44       141       86       271       (200 )     71  
Restructuring expenses
    15       1       5       21             21  
Operating expenses
    164       105       70       339       16       355  
                                                 
Total expenses
    179       106       75       360       16       376  
                                                 
Income (loss) before income tax expense (benefit)
    257       28       12       297       (463 )     (166 )
Income tax expense (benefit)(1)
    94       10       5       109       (171 )     (62 )
Less: net income attributable to noncontrolling interest
                                   
                                                 
Net income (loss) attributable to SLM Corporation
  $ 163     $ 18     $ 7     $ 188     $ (292 )   $ (104 )
                                                 
 
 
(1) Income taxes are based on a percentage of net income before tax for each individual reportable segment.
 
(2) “Core Earnings” adjustments to GAAP:
 
                                         
    Three Months Ended March 31, 2008  
    Net Impact of
    Net Impact of
          Net Impact
       
    Securitization
    Derivative
    Net Impact of
    of Acquired
       
(Dollars in millions)
  Accounting     Accounting     Floor Income     Intangibles     Total  
 
Net interest income (loss)
  $ (195 )   $ (90 )   $ (6 )   $     $ (291 )
Less: provisions for loan losses
    (44 )                       (44 )
                                         
Net interest income (loss) after provisions for loan losses
    (151 )     (90 )     (6 )           (247 )
Contingency fee revenue
                             
Collections revenue
    1                         1  
Guarantor servicing fees
                             
Other income (loss)
    72       (273 )                 (201 )
                                         
Total other income (loss)
    73       (273 )                 (200 )
Restructuring expenses
                             
Operating expenses
    1                   15       16  
                                         
Total expenses
    1                   15       16  
                                         
Total pre-tax “Core Earnings” adjustments to GAAP
  $ (79 )   $ (363 )   $ (6 )   $ (15 )     (463 )
                                         
Income tax benefit
                                    (171 )
Less: net income attributable to noncontrolling interest
                                     
                                         
Total “Core Earnings” adjustments to GAAP
                                  $ (292 )
                                         

41


Table of Contents

 
SLM CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Information at March 31, 2009 and for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 and 2008 is unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
15.   Segment Reporting (Continued)
 
Summary of “Core Earnings” Adjustments to GAAP
 
The adjustments required to reconcile from the Company’s “Core Earnings” results to its GAAP results of operations relate to differing treatments for securitization transactions, derivatives, Floor Income, and certain other items that management does not consider in evaluating the Company’s operating results. The following table reflects aggregate adjustments associated with these areas for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                 
    Three Months Ended
 
    March 31,  
(Dollars in millions)
  2009     2008  
 
“Core Earnings” adjustments to GAAP:
               
Net impact of securitization accounting(1)
  $ (198 )   $ (79 )
Net impact of derivative accounting(2)
    54       (363 )
Net impact of Floor Income(3)
    79       (6 )
Net impact of acquired intangibles(4)
    (10 )     (15 )
Net tax effect(5)
    40       171  
                 
Total “Core Earnings” adjustments to GAAP
  $ (35 )   $ (292 )
                 
 
 
(1) Securitization:  Under GAAP, certain securitization transactions in the Company’s Lending operating segment are accounted for as sales of assets. Under the Company’s “Core Earnings” presentation for the Lending operating segment, the Company presents all securitization transactions on a “Core Earnings” basis as long-term non-recourse financings. The upfront “gains” on sale from securitization transactions as well as ongoing “servicing and securitization revenue” presented in accordance with GAAP are excluded from “Core Earnings” net income and replaced by the interest income, provisions for loan losses, and interest expense as they are earned or incurred on the securitization loans. The Company also excludes transactions with its off-balance sheet trusts from “Core Earnings” net income as they are considered intercompany transactions on a “Core Earnings” basis.
 
(2) Derivative accounting:  “Core Earnings” net income excludes periodic unrealized gains and losses arising primarily in the Company’s Lending operating segment, and to a lesser degree in the Company’s Corporate and Other reportable segment, that are caused primarily by the one-sided mark-to-market derivative valuations prescribed by SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,” on derivatives that do not qualify for “hedge treatment” under GAAP. Under the Company’s “Core Earnings” presentation, the Company recognizes the economic effect of these hedges, which generally results in any cash paid or received being recognized ratably as an expense or revenue over the hedged item’s life.
 
(3) Floor Income:  The timing and amount (if any) of Floor Income earned in the Company’s Lending operating segment is uncertain and in excess of expected spreads. Therefore, the Company excludes such income from “Core Earnings” net income when it is not economically hedged. The Company employs derivatives, primarily Floor Income Contracts and futures, to economically hedge Floor Income. As discussed above in “Derivative Accounting,” these derivatives do not qualify as effective accounting hedges and therefore, under GAAP, are marked-to-market through the “gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities, net” line on the consolidated statements of income with no offsetting gain or loss recorded for the economically hedged items. For “Core Earnings” net income, the Company reverses the fair value adjustments on the Floor Income Contracts and futures economically hedging Floor Income and includes the amortization of net premiums received (net of Eurodollar futures contracts’ realized gains or losses) in income.
 
(4) Acquired Intangibles:  The Company excludes goodwill and intangible impairment and amortization of acquired intangibles.
 
(5) Net Tax Effect:  Such tax effect is based upon the Company’s “Core Earnings” effective tax rate for the year.


42


Table of Contents

Item 2.   Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Three months ended March 30, 2009 and 2008
(Dollars in millions, except per share amounts, unless otherwise noted)
 
FORWARD-LOOKING AND CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS
 
This quarterly report contains forward-looking statements and information based on management’s current expectations as of the date of this document. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about our beliefs or expectations and statements that assume or are dependent upon future events, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause actual results to be materially different from those reflected in such forward-looking statements. These factors include, among others, the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to our ability to cost-effectively refinance asset-backed financing facilities due April 2010, (collectively, the “2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities”), including any potential foreclosure on the student loans under those facilities following their termination; increased financing costs; limited liquidity; any adverse outcomes in any significant litigation to which we are a party; our derivative counterparties terminating their positions with the Company if permitted by their contracts and the Company substantially incurring additional costs to replace any terminated positions; changes in the terms of student loans and the educational credit marketplace (including changes resulting from new laws, such as any laws enacted to implement the Administration’s 2010 budget proposals as they relate to the Federal Family Education Loan Program (“FFELP”) and regulations and from the implementation of applicable laws and regulations) which, among other things, may change the volume, average term and yields on student loans under the FFELP, may result in loans being originated or refinanced under non-FFELP programs, or may affect the terms upon which banks and others agree to sell FFELP loans to the Company. The Company could be affected by: various liquidity programs being implemented by the federal government; changes in the demand for educational financing or in financing preferences of lenders, educational institutions, students and their families; incorrect estimates or assumptions by management in connection with the preparation of our consolidated financial statements; changes in the composition of our Managed FFELP and Private Education Loan portfolios; changes in the general interest rate environment, including the rate relationships among relevant money-market instruments, and in the securitization markets for education loans, which may increase the costs or limit the availability of financings necessary to initiate, purchase or carry education loans; changes in projections of losses from loan defaults; changes in general economic conditions; changes in prepayment rates and credit spreads; and changes in the demand for debt management services and new laws or changes in existing laws that govern debt management services. All forward-looking statements contained in this quarterly report are qualified by these cautionary statements and are made only as of the date of this quarterly report is filed. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements to conform the statement to actual results or changes in the Company’s expectations.
 
Definitions for capitalized terms used in this document can be found in the “Glossary” at the end of this document.
 
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
 
A discussion of the Company’s critical accounting policies, which include allowance for loan losses, premium and discount amortization related to our loan portfolio, fair value measurement, securitization and Retained Interest accounting, and derivative accounting can be found in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008.
 
Fair Value Measurements
 
On April 9, 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued three staff positions regarding fair value measurements and recognition of impairment. Under FASB Staff Position (“FSP”) Financial Accounting Standards (“FAS”) No. 115-2 and FAS No. 124-2, “Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments,” impairment must be recorded to income for debt securities if there


43


Table of Contents

exists a fair value loss and the entity intends to sell the security or it is more likely than not the entity will be required to sell the security before recovery of the loss. Additionally, credit losses must be recorded through income regardless of the impairment determination above. Remaining fair value losses are recorded to other comprehensive income. FSP FAS No. 107-1 and APB No. 28-1, “Interim Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments,” require interim disclosures of the fair value of financial instruments that were previously only required annually. Finally, FSP FAS No. 157-4, “Determining Fair Value When the Volume and Level of Activity for the Asset or Liability Have Significantly Decreased and Identifying Transactions That Are Not Orderly,” provides guidance for determining when a significant decrease in market activity has occurred and when a transaction is not orderly. It further reiterates that prices from inactive markets or disorderly transactions should carry less weight if any to the determination of fair value. These standards are effective for the Company beginning April 1, 2009 with the ability to adopt early as of January 1, 2009. The Company chose not to early adopt these standards for the quarter ending March 31, 2009 as the Company believes these standards will not materially impact the financial statements.
 
Significant assumptions used in fair value measurements including those related to credit and liquidity risk are as follows:
 
  1.  Investments — Our investments primarily consist of overnight/weekly maturity instruments with high credit quality counterparties. However, we have considered credit and liquidity risk involving specific instruments. These assumptions have further been validated by the successful maturity of these investments in the period immediately following the end of the reporting period. In the fourth quarter 2008, we recorded an impairment of $8 million related to our investment in the Reserve Primary Fund based on an internal assessment of the collectability of our remaining investment. See “LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES — Counterparty Exposure” for further discussion.
 
  2.  Derivatives — When determining the fair value of derivatives, we take into account counterparty credit risk for positions where we are exposed to the counterparty on a net basis by assessing exposure net of collateral held. The net exposure for each counterparty is adjusted based on market information available for the specific counterparty including spreads from credit default swaps. Additionally, when the counterparty has exposure to the Company related to SLM Corporation derivatives, we fully collateralize the exposure minimizing the adjustment necessary to the derivative valuations for our credit risk. While trusts that contain derivatives are not required to post collateral to counterparties, the credit quality and securitized nature of the trusts minimizes any adjustments for the counterparty’s exposure to the trusts. Adjustments related to credit risk reduced the overall value of our derivatives by $(74) million as of March 31, 2009. We also take into account changes in liquidity when determining the fair value of derivative positions. We adjusted the fair value of certain less liquid positions by approximately $(231) million to take into account a significant reduction in liquidity as of March 31, 2009, related primarily to basis swaps indexed to interest rate indices with inactive markets. A major indicator of market inactivity is the widening of the bid/ask spread in these markets. In general, the widening of counterparty credit spreads and reduced liquidity for derivative instruments as indicated by wider bid/ask spreads will reduce the fair value of derivatives. In addition, certain cross-currency interest rate swaps hedging foreign currency denominated reset rate notes in the Company’s on-balance sheet trusts contain extension features that coincide with the remarketing dates of the notes. The valuation of the extension feature requires significant judgment based on internally developed inputs. These swaps were transferred into Level 3 during the current period due to a change in the assumption regarding successful remarketing. These swaps had an unrealized loss of $(399) million in the current period.
 
  3.  Residual Interests — We have never sold our Residual Interests. We do not consider our Residual Interests to be liquid, which we take into account when valuing our Residual Interests. We use non-binding broker quotes and industry analyst reports which show changes in the indicative prices of the asset-backed securities tranches immediately senior to the Residual Interest as an indication of potential changes in the discount rate used to value the Residual Interest. We also use the most current prepayment and default rate assumptions to project the cash flows used to value Residual Interests. These assumptions are internally developed and primarily based on analyzing the actual results of loan performance from past periods. See Note 5, “Student Loan Securitization,” to the consolidated


44


Table of Contents

  financial statements for a discussion of all assumption changes made during the quarter to properly determine the fair value of the Residual Interests, as well as a shock analysis to fair value related to all significant assumptions.
 
  4.  Student Loans — Our FFELP loans and Private Education Loans are accounted for at cost or at the lower of cost or fair value if the loan is held-for-sale. The fair value is disclosed in compliance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 107. For both FFELP loans and Private Education Loans accounted for at cost, fair value is determined by modeling loan level cash flows using stated terms of the assets and internally-developed assumptions to determine aggregate portfolio yield, net present value and average life. The significant assumptions used to project cash flows are prepayment speeds, default rates, cost of funds, and required return on equity. In addition, the Floor Income component of our FFELP loan portfolio is valued through discounted cash flow and option models using both observable market inputs and internally developed inputs. Significant inputs into the models are not generally market observable. They are either derived internally through a combination of historical experience and management’s qualitative expectation of future performance (in the case of prepayment speeds, default rates, and capital assumptions), or are obtained through external broker quotes (as in the case of cost of funds). When possible, market transactions are used to validate the model. In most cases these are either infrequent or not observable. For FFELP loans classified as held-for-sale and accounted for at the lower of cost or market, the fair value is based on the committed sales price of the various loan purchase programs established by ED.
 
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
 
Condensed Statements of Income
 
                                 
    Three Months
       
    Ended
    Increase
 
    March 31,     (Decrease)  
    2009     2008     $     %  
 
Net interest income
  $ 215     $ 276     $ (61 )     (22 )%
Less: provisions for loan losses
    250       137       113       82  
                                 
Net interest income (loss) after provisions for loan losses
    (35 )     139       (174 )     (125 )
Servicing and securitization revenue (loss)
    (96 )     108       (204 )     (189 )
Losses on loans and securities, net
          (35 )     35       100  
Gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities, net
    104       (273 )     377       138  
Contingency fee revenue
    75       85       (10 )     (12 )
Collections revenue (loss)
    (22 )     57       (79 )     (139 )
Guarantor servicing fees
    34       35       (1 )     (3 )
Other income
    193       94       99       105  
Restructuring expenses
    5       21       (16 )     (76 )
Operating expenses
    301       355       (54 )     (15 )
                                 
Loss before income tax benefit
    (53 )     (166 )     113       68  
Income tax benefit
    (32 )     (62 )     30       48  
                                 
Net loss
    (21 )     (104 )     83       80  
Less: net income attributable to noncontrolling interest
                       
                                 
Net loss attributable to SLM Corporation
    (21 )     (104 )     83       80  
Preferred stock dividends
    26       29       (3 )     (10 )
                                 
Net loss attributable to SLM Corporation common stock
  $ (47 )   $ (133 )   $ 86       65 %
                                 
Basic loss per common share attributable to SLM Corporation common shareholders
  $ (.10 )   $ (.28 )   $ .18       64 %
                                 
Diluted loss per common share attributable to SLM Corporation common shareholders
  $ (.10 )   $ (.28 )   $ .18       64 %
                                 
Dividends per common share attributable to SLM Corporation common shareholders
  $     $     $       %
                                 


45


Table of Contents

Condensed Balance Sheets
 
                                 
                Increase
 
    March 31,
    December 31,
    (Decrease)  
    2009     2008     $     %  
 
Assets
                               
FFELP Stafford and Other Student Loans, net
  $ 43,444     $ 44,025     $ (581 )     (1 )%
FFELP Stafford Loans Held-for-Sale
    14,400       8,451       5,949       70  
FFELP Consolidation Loans, net
    70,886       71,744       (858 )     (1 )
Private Education Loans, net
    21,645       20,582       1,063       5  
Other loans, net
    684       729       (45 )     (6 )
Cash and investments
    3,748       5,112       (1,364 )     (27 )
Restricted cash and investments
    3,855       3,535       320       9  
Retained Interest in off-balance sheet securitized loans
    1,951       2,200       (249 )     (11 )
Goodwill and acquired intangible assets, net
    1,240       1,249       (9 )     (1 )
Other assets
    9,698       11,141       (1,443 )     (13 )
                                 
Total assets
  $ 171,551     $ 168,768     $ 2,783       2 %
                                 
Liabilities and Equity
                               
Short-term borrowings
  $ 46,332     $ 41,933     $ 4,399       10 %
Long-term borrowings
    116,669       118,225       (1,556 )     (1 )
Other liabilities
    3,586       3,604       (18 )      
                                 
Total liabilities
    166,587       163,762       2,825       2  
                                 
SLM Corporation stockholders’ equity before treasury stock
    6,824       6,855       (31 )      
Common stock held in treasury
    1,860       1,856       4        
                                 
SLM Corporation stockholders’ equity
    4,964       4,999       (35 )     (1 )
Noncontrolling interest
          7       (7 )     (100 )
                                 
Total equity
    4,964       5,006       (42 )     (1 )
                                 
Total liabilities and equity
  $ 171,551     $ 168,768     $ 2,783       2 %
                                 
 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2009 Compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2008
 
For the three months ended March 31, 2009, net loss attributable to SLM Corporation was $21 million or $.10 diluted loss per common share attributable to SLM Corporation common shareholders, compared to a net loss of $104 million, or $.28 diluted loss per common share attributable to SLM Corporation common shareholders, for the three months ended March 31, 2008. The effective tax rate for those periods was 60 percent and 38 percent, respectively. For the three months ended March 31, 2009, the Company’s pre-tax loss was $53 million compared to a pre-tax loss of $166 million in the year-ago quarter. The decrease in pre-tax loss of $113 million was primarily due to a decrease in net losses on derivative and hedging activities of $377 million from a $273 million loss in the first quarter of 2008 to a $104 million gain in the first quarter of 2009, offset by an increase to provisions for loan losses of $113 million, and a decrease to servicing and securitization revenue of $203 million discussed below.
 
There were no gains on student loan securitizations in either the first quarter of 2009 or the year-ago quarter as the Company did not complete any off-balance sheet securitizations in those periods. Servicing and securitization revenue decreased by $203 million from revenue of $108 million in the first quarter of 2008 to a loss of $95 million in the first quarter of 2009. This decrease was primarily due to a larger current-quarter unrealized mark-to-market loss of $261 million on the Company’s Residual Interests compared to a year-ago


46


Table of Contents

quarter $88 million unrealized mark-to-market loss. See “LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES — Securitization Activities — Servicing and Securitization Revenue” for further discussion of the factors impacting the fair values.
 
Net interest income after provisions for loan losses decreased by $174 million in the first quarter from the year-ago quarter. This decrease was due to a $113 million increase in provisions for loan losses and to a $61 million decrease in net interest income. The decrease in net interest income was primarily due to a decrease in the other asset spread and an increase in the 2008 Asset Backed Financing Facilities Fees (see “LENDING BUSINESS SEGMENT — Net Interest Income — Net Interest Margin — On-Balance Sheet”). For the current quarter, net interest losses after provisions for loan losses would have resulted in positive net interest income, if net settlements on non-qualifying SFAS No. 133 hedges were included in net interest margin along with the related items for which they are economically hedging, as opposed to being included in net gains (losses) on derivatives and hedging activities. The increase in provisions for loan losses relates primarily to increases in delinquencies and charge-off expectations on Private Education Loans (see “LENDING BUSINESS SEGMENT — Private Education Loan Losses — Private Education Loan Delinquencies and Forbearance” and “— Activity in the Allowance for Private Education Loan Losses”) primarily as a result of the continued weakening of the U.S. economy.
 
In the first quarter of 2009, contingency fee, collections and guarantor servicing fee revenue totaled $87 million, a $90 million decrease from $177 million in the year-ago quarter. This decrease was primarily the result of $77 million of impairment, recorded in the first quarter of 2009, comprised of $74 million of impairment related to declines in the fair value of mortgage loans and real estate held by the Company’s mortgage purchased paper subsidiary and $3 million of impairment related to the Company’s non-mortgage purchased paper subsidiary, compared to $23 million of total impairment recorded in the first quarter of 2008 (see “ASSET PERFORMANCE GROUP BUSINESS SEGMENT” and a separate discussion of “Other Income” at the end of this section).
 
There were no losses on sales of loans and securities, net, in the first quarter of 2009, as compared to losses of $35 million incurred in the year-ago quarter. Prior to the fourth quarter of 2008, these losses were primarily the result of the Company’s repurchase of delinquent Private Education Loans from the Company’s off-balance sheet securitization trusts. When Private Education Loans in the Company’s off-balance sheet securitization trusts that settled before September 30, 2005, became 180 days delinquent, the Company previously exercised its contingent call option to repurchase these loans at par value out of the trusts and recorded a loss for the difference in the par value paid and the fair market value of the loans at the time of purchase. The Company does not hold the contingent call option for any trusts that settled after September 30, 2005. In October 2008, the Company decided to no longer exercise its contingent call option.
 
The Company is restructuring its business in response to the impact of The College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007 (“CCRAA”), and current challenges in the capital markets. In conjunction with our restructuring plan, we are refocusing our lending activities, exiting certain customer relationships and product lines, and winding down our debt purchased paper businesses. As a result, during 2008 we reduced our operating expenses by over 20 percent in the fourth quarter of 2008 compared to the fourth quarter of 2007, after adjusting for restructuring costs, growth and other investments. As part of the Company’s cost reduction efforts, restructuring expenses of $5 million and $21 million were recognized in the current quarter and year-ago quarter, respectively. Restructuring expenses from the fourth quarter of 2007 through the first quarter of 2009 totaled $111 million. The majority of these restructuring expenses were severance costs related to the completed and planned elimination of approximately 2,900 positions, or approximately 26 percent of the workforce. We estimate approximately $10 million of additional restructuring expenses associated with our current cost reduction efforts will be incurred and our current restructuring plan will be substantially complete by the end of 2009. During 2009, we will continue to review our business to determine whether there are other opportunities to further streamline the business.


47


Table of Contents

Operating expenses were $301 million in the first quarter of 2009 compared to $356 million in the first quarter of 2008. This decrease was primarily due to the Company’s cost reduction efforts. The amortization of acquired intangibles totaled $10 million and $15 million for the first quarter of 2009 and 2008, respectively.
 
Other Income
 
The following table summarizes the components of “Other income” in the consolidated statements of income for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                 
    Three Months
 
    Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Late fees and forbearance fees
  $ 37     $ 37  
Asset servicing and other transaction fees
    25       26  
Loan servicing fees
    10       7  
Gains on debt repurchases
    64        
Foreign currency translation gains
    40        
Other
    16       24  
                 
Total
  $ 192     $ 94  
                 
 
The increase in other income for the three months ended March 31, 2009 compared to the year-ago quarter was primarily due to two items. The Company began to repurchase its unsecured debt in the second quarter of 2008, and recorded $64 million in gains on debt repurchases in the first quarter of 2009. Also contributing to the increase in other income was a foreign currency translation gain recorded in connection with the Company’s international non-mortgage purchased paper business, which was sold in the first quarter of 2009. This translation gain also related to a small amount of foreign currency denominated debt for which the Company does not receive hedge accounting treatment under SFAS No. 133. The Company hedges both of these exposures with derivatives. An offsetting loss was recognized during the current quarter in the “gains (losses) on derivative hedging activities, net” line on the consolidated statements of income.
 
BUSINESS SEGMENTS
 
The results of operations of the Company’s Lending and Asset Performance Group (“APG”) operating segments are presented below. These defined business segments operate in distinct business environments and are considered reportable segments under SFAS No. 131, “Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information,” based on quantitative thresholds applied to the Company’s financial statements. In addition, we provide other complementary products and services, including guarantor and student loan servicing, through smaller operating segments that do not meet such thresholds and are aggregated in the Corporate and Other reportable segment for financial reporting purposes.
 
The management reporting process measures the performance of the Company’s operating segments based on the management structure of the Company as well as the methodology used by management to evaluate performance and allocate resources. In accordance with the Rules and Regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), we prepare financial statements in accordance with GAAP. In addition to evaluating the Company’s GAAP-based financial information, management, including the Company’s chief operation decision maker, evaluates the performance of the Company’s operating segments based on their profitability on a basis that, as allowed under SFAS No. 131, differs from GAAP. We refer to management’s basis of evaluating our segment results as “Core Earnings” presentations for each business segment and we refer to these performance measures in our presentations with credit rating agencies and lenders. Accordingly, information regarding the Company’s reportable segments is provided herein based on “Core Earnings,” which are discussed in detail below.
 
Our “Core Earnings” are not defined terms within GAAP and may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies. “Core Earnings” net income reflects only current period adjustments to


48


Table of Contents

GAAP net income as described below. Unlike financial accounting, there is no comprehensive, authoritative guidance for management reporting and as a result, our management reporting is not necessarily comparable with similar information for any other financial institution. The Company’s operating segments are defined by the products and services they offer or the types of customers they serve, and they reflect the manner in which financial information is currently evaluated by management. Intersegment revenues and expenses are netted within the appropriate financial statement line items consistent with the income statement presentation provided to management. Changes in management structure or allocation methodologies and procedures may result in changes in reported segment financial information.
 
“Core Earnings” are the primary financial performance measures used by management to develop the Company’s financial plans, track results, and establish corporate performance targets. While “Core Earnings” are not a substitute for reported results under GAAP, the Company relies on “Core Earnings” in operating its business because “Core Earnings” permit management to make meaningful period-to-period comparisons of the operational and performance indicators that are most closely assessed by management. Management believes this information provides additional insight into the financial performance of the core business activities of our operating segments. Accordingly, the tables presented below reflect “Core Earnings” which is reviewed and utilized by management to manage the business for each of the Company’s reportable segments. A further discussion regarding “Core Earnings” is included under “Limitations of ‘Core Earnings’ ” and “Pre-tax Differences between ‘Core Earnings’ and GAAP by Business Segment.”
 
The “LENDING BUSINESS SEGMENT” section includes all discussion of income and related expenses associated with the net interest margin, the student loan spread and its components, the provisions for loan losses, and other fees earned on our Managed portfolio of student loans. The “APG BUSINESS SEGMENT” section reflects the fees earned and expenses incurred in providing accounts receivable management and collection services. The “CORPORATE AND OTHER BUSINESS SEGMENT” section includes our remaining fee businesses and other corporate expenses that do not pertain directly to the primary operating segments identified above.
 


49


Table of Contents

                         
    Three Months Ended
 
    March 31, 2009  
                Corporate
 
    Lending     APG     and Other  
 
Interest income:
                       
FFELP Stafford and Other Student Loans
  $ 362     $     $  
FFELP Consolidation Loans
    439              
Private Education Loans
    563              
Other loans
    16              
Cash and investments
    3             5  
                         
Total interest income
    1,383             5  
Total interest expense
    949       6       4  
                         
Net interest income (loss)
    434       (6 )     1  
Less: provisions for loan losses
    349              
                         
Net interest income (loss) after provisions for loan losses
    85       (6 )     1  
Contingency fee revenue
          75        
Collections revenue (loss)
          (22 )      
Guarantor servicing fees
                34  
Other income
    102             49  
                         
Total other income
    102       53       83  
Restructuring expenses
    1       2       2  
Operating expenses
    131       88       72  
                         
Total expenses
    132       90       74  
                         
Income (loss) before income tax expense (benefit)
    55       (43 )     10  
Income tax expense (benefit)(1)
    21       (16 )     3  
Less: net income attributable to noncontrolling interest
                 
                         
“Core Earnings” net income (loss) attributable to SLM Corporation
  $ 34     $ (27 )   $ 7  
                         
 
 
(1) Income taxes are based on a percentage of net income before tax for each individual reportable segment.
 

50


Table of Contents

                         
    Three Months Ended
 
    March 31, 2008  
                Corporate
 
    Lending     APG     and Other  
 
Interest income:
                       
FFELP Stafford and Other Student Loans
  $ 494     $     $  
FFELP Consolidation Loans
    989              
Private Education Loans
    749              
Other loans
    23              
Cash and investments
    142             6  
                         
Total interest income
    2,397             6  
Total interest expense
    1,824       7       5  
                         
Net interest income (loss)
    573       (7 )     1  
Less: provisions for loan losses
    181              
                         
Net interest income (loss) after provisions for loan losses
    392       (7 )     1  
Contingency fee revenue
          85        
Collections revenue (loss)
          56        
Guarantor servicing fees
                35  
Other income
    44             51  
                         
Total other income
    44       141       86  
Restructuring expenses
    15       1       5  
Operating expenses
    164       105       70  
                         
Total expenses
    179       106       75  
                         
Income before income tax expense
    257       28       12  
Income tax expense(1)
    94       10       5  
Less: net income attributable to noncontrolling interest
                 
                         
“Core Earnings” net income attributable to SLM Corporation
  $ 163     $ 18     $ 7  
                         
 
 
(1) Income taxes are based on a percentage of net income before tax for each individual reportable segment.
 
Limitations of “Core Earnings”
 
While GAAP provides a uniform, comprehensive basis of accounting, for the reasons described above, management believes that “Core Earnings” are an important additional tool for providing a more complete understanding of the Company’s results of operations. Nevertheless, “Core Earnings” are subject to certain general and specific limitations that investors should carefully consider. For example, as stated above, unlike financial accounting, there is no comprehensive, authoritative guidance for management reporting. Our “Core Earnings” are not defined terms within GAAP and may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies. Unlike GAAP, “Core Earnings” reflect only current period adjustments to GAAP. Accordingly, the Company’s “Core Earnings” presentation does not represent a comprehensive basis of accounting. Investors, therefore, may not compare our Company’s performance with that of other financial services companies based upon “Core Earnings.” “Core Earnings” results are only meant to supplement GAAP results by providing additional information regarding the operational and performance indicators that are most closely used by management, the Company’s board of directors, rating agencies and lenders to assess performance.
 
Other limitations arise from the specific adjustments that management makes to GAAP results to derive “Core Earnings” results. For example, in reversing the unrealized gains and losses that result from

51


Table of Contents

SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,” on derivatives that do not qualify for “hedge treatment,” as well as on derivatives that do qualify but are in part ineffective because they are not perfect hedges, we focus on the long-term economic effectiveness of those instruments relative to the underlying hedged item and isolate the effects of interest rate volatility, changing credit spreads and changes in our stock price on the fair value of such instruments during the period. Under GAAP, the effects of these factors on the fair value of the derivative instruments (but not on the underlying hedged item) tend to show more volatility in the short term. While our presentation of our results on a “Core Earnings” basis provides important information regarding the performance of our Managed portfolio, a limitation of this presentation is that we are presenting the ongoing spread income on loans that have been sold to a trust managed by us. While we believe that our “Core Earnings” presentation presents the economic substance of our Managed loan portfolio, it understates earnings volatility from securitization gains. Our “Core Earnings” results exclude certain Floor Income, which is real cash income, from our reported results and therefore may understate earnings in certain periods. Management’s financial planning and valuation of operating results, however, does not take into account Floor Income because of its inherent uncertainty, except when it is economically hedged through Floor Income Contracts.
 
Pre-tax differences between “Core Earnings” and GAAP by Business Segment
 
Our “Core Earnings” are the primary financial performance measures used by management to evaluate performance and to allocate resources. Accordingly, financial information is reported to management on a “Core Earnings” basis by reportable segment, as these are the measures used regularly by our chief operating decision makers. Our “Core Earnings” are used in developing our financial plans and tracking results, and also in establishing corporate performance targets and incentive compensation. Management believes this information provides additional insight into the financial performance of the Company’s core business activities. “Core Earnings” net income reflects only current period adjustments to GAAP net income, as described in the more detailed discussion of the differences between “Core Earnings” and GAAP that follows, which includes further detail on each specific adjustment required to reconcile our “Core Earnings” segment presentation to our GAAP earnings.
 
                                                 
    Three Months Ended March 31,  
    2009     2008  
                Corporate
                Corporate
 
    Lending     APG     and Other     Lending     APG     and Other  
 
“Core Earnings” adjustments to GAAP:
                                               
Net impact of securitization accounting
  $ (198 )   $     $     $ (79 )   $     $  
Net impact of derivative accounting
    54                   (363 )              
Net impact of Floor Income
    79                   (6 )            
Net impact of acquired intangibles
    (3 )     (2 )     (5 )     (5 )     (4 )     (6 )
                                                 
Total “Core Earnings” adjustments to GAAP
  $ (68 )   $ (2 )   $ (5 )   $ (453 )   $ (4 )   $ (6 )
                                                 
 
1) Securitization Accounting:  Under GAAP, certain securitization transactions in our Lending operating segment are accounted for as sales of assets. Under “Core Earnings” for the Lending operating segment, we present all securitization transactions on a “Core Earnings” basis as long-term non-recourse financings. The upfront “gains” on sale from securitization transactions, as well as ongoing “servicing and securitization revenue” presented in accordance with GAAP, are excluded from “Core Earnings” and are replaced by interest income, provisions for loan losses, and interest expense as earned or incurred on the securitization loans. We also exclude transactions with our off-balance sheet trusts from “Core Earnings” as they are considered intercompany transactions on a “Core Earnings” basis.


52


Table of Contents

The following table summarizes the securitization adjustments in our Lending operating segment for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                 
    Three Months Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
“Core Earnings” securitization adjustments:
               
Net interest income on securitized loans, before provisions for loan losses and before intercompany transactions
  $ (202 )   $ (194 )
Provisions for loan losses
    99       44  
                 
Net interest income on securitized loans, after provisions for loan losses, before intercompany transactions
    (103 )     (150 )
Intercompany transactions with off-balance sheet trusts
          (37 )
                 
Net interest income on securitized loans, after provisions for loan losses
    (103 )     (187 )
Servicing and securitization revenue
    (95 )     108  
                 
Total “Core Earnings” securitization adjustments(1)
  $ (198 )   $ (79 )
                 
 
 
(1) Negative amounts are subtracted from “Core Earnings” net income to arrive at GAAP net income and positive amounts are added to “Core Earnings” net income to arrive at GAAP net income.
 
“Intercompany transactions with off-balance sheet trusts” in the above table relate primarily to losses that result from the repurchase of delinquent loans from our off-balance sheet securitization trusts. When Private Education Loans in our securitization trusts settling before September 30, 2005 became 180 days delinquent, we previously exercised our contingent call option to repurchase these loans at par value out of the trust and recorded a loss for the difference in the par value paid and the fair market value of the loan at the time of purchase. We do not hold the contingent call option for any trusts settled after September 30, 2005. In October 2008, the Company decided to no longer exercise its contingent call option.
 
2) Derivative Accounting:  “Core Earnings” exclude periodic unrealized gains and losses that are caused primarily by the one-sided mark-to-market derivative valuations prescribed by SFAS No. 133 on derivatives that do not qualify for “hedge treatment” under GAAP. These unrealized gains and losses occur in our Lending operating segment. In our “Core Earnings” presentation, we recognize the economic effect of these hedges, which generally results in any cash paid or received being recognized ratably as an expense or revenue over the hedged item’s life.
 
SFAS No. 133 requires that changes in the fair value of derivative instruments be recognized currently in earnings unless specific hedge accounting criteria, as specified by SFAS No. 133, are met. We believe that our derivatives are effective economic hedges, and as such, are a critical element of our interest rate risk management strategy. However, some of our derivatives, primarily Floor Income Contracts and certain basis swaps, do not qualify for “hedge treatment” as defined by SFAS No. 133, and the stand-alone derivative must be marked-to-market in the income statement with no consideration for the corresponding change in fair value of the hedged item. The gains and losses described in “Gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities, net” are primarily caused by interest rate and foreign currency exchange rate volatility, and changing credit spreads during the period as well as the volume and term of derivatives not receiving hedge treatment.
 
Our Floor Income Contracts are written options that must meet more stringent requirements than other hedging relationships to achieve hedge effectiveness under SFAS No. 133. Specifically, our Floor Income Contracts do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment because the pay down of principal of the student loans underlying the Floor Income embedded in those student loans does not exactly match the change in the notional amount of our written Floor Income Contracts. Under SFAS No. 133, the upfront payment is deemed a liability and changes in fair value are recorded through income throughout the life of the contract. The change in the value of Floor Income Contracts is primarily caused by changing interest rates that cause the amount of Floor Income earned on the underlying student loans and paid to the counterparties to vary. This is


53


Table of Contents

economically offset by the change in value of the student loan portfolio, including our Retained Interests, earning Floor Income but that offsetting change in value is not recognized under SFAS No. 133. We believe the Floor Income Contracts are economic hedges because they effectively fix the amount of Floor Income earned over the contract period, thus eliminating the timing and uncertainty that changes in interest rates can have on Floor Income for that period. Prior to SFAS No. 133, we accounted for Floor Income Contracts as hedges and amortized the upfront cash compensation ratably over the lives of the contracts.
 
Basis swaps are used to convert floating rate debt from one floating interest rate index to another to better match the interest rate characteristics of the assets financed by that debt. We primarily use basis swaps to change the index of our floating rate debt to better match the cash flows of our student loan assets that are primarily indexed to a commercial paper, Prime or Treasury bill index. In addition, we use basis swaps to convert debt indexed to the Consumer Price Index to three-month month LIBOR debt. SFAS No. 133 requires that when using basis swaps, the change in the cash flows of the hedge effectively offset both the change in the cash flows of the asset and the change in the cash flows of the liability. Our basis swaps hedge variable interest rate risk; however, they generally do not meet this effectiveness test because the index of the swap does not exactly match the index of the hedged assets as required by SFAS No. 133. Additionally, some of our FFELP loans can earn at either a variable or a fixed interest rate depending on market interest rates. We also have basis swaps that do not meet the SFAS No. 133 effectiveness test that economically hedge off-balance sheet instruments. As a result, under GAAP these swaps are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value reflected currently in the income statement.
 
The table below quantifies the adjustments for derivative accounting under SFAS No. 133 on our net income for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008 when compared with the accounting principles employed in all years prior to the SFAS No. 133 implementation.
 
                 
    Three Months
 
    Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
“Core Earnings” derivative adjustments:
               
Gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities, net, included in other income(1)
  $ 104     $ (273 )
Less: Realized (gains) losses on derivative and hedging activities, net(1)
    (76 )     (91 )
                 
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities, net(1)
    28       (364 )
Other pre-SFAS No. 133 accounting adjustments
    26       1  
                 
Total net impact of SFAS No. 133 derivative accounting(2)
  $ 54     $ (363 )
                 
 
 
(1) See “Reclassification of Realized Gains (Losses) on Derivative and Hedging Activities” below for a detailed breakdown of the components of both the realized and unrealized losses on derivative and hedging activities.
(2) Negative amounts are subtracted from “Core Earnings” net income to arrive at GAAP net income and positive amounts are added to “Core Earnings” net income to arrive at GAAP net income.


54


Table of Contents

Reclassification of Realized Gains (Losses) on Derivative and Hedging Activities
 
SFAS No. 133 requires net settlement income/expense on derivatives and realized gains/losses related to derivative dispositions (collectively referred to as “realized gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities”) that do not qualify as hedges under SFAS No. 133 to be recorded in a separate income statement line item below net interest income. The table below summarizes the realized losses on derivative and hedging activities, and the associated reclassification on a “Core Earnings” basis for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                 
    Three Months
 
    Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Reclassification of realized gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities:
               
Net settlement expense on Floor Income Contracts reclassified to net interest income
  $ (140 )   $ (140 )
Net settlement income (expense) on interest rate swaps reclassified to net interest income
    229       231  
Foreign currency exchange derivatives gains (losses) reclassified to other income
    (13 )      
Net realized gains (losses) on terminated derivative contracts reclassified to other income
           
                 
Total reclassifications of realized gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities
    76       91  
Add: Unrealized gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities, net(1)
    28       (364 )
                 
Gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities, net
  $ 104     $ (273 )
                 
 
 
(1) “Unrealized gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities, net” is comprised of the following unrealized mark-to-market gains (losses):
 
                 
    Three Months
    Ended
    March 31,
    2009   2008
 
Floor Income Contracts
  $ 166     $ (295 )
Basis swaps
    (315 )     (132 )
Other
    177       63  
                 
Total unrealized gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities, net
  $ 28     $ (364 )
                 
 
Unrealized gains and losses on Floor Income Contracts are primarily caused by changes in interest rates. In general, an increase in interest rates results in an unrealized gain and vice versa. Unrealized gains and losses on basis swaps result from changes in the spread between indices and on changes in the forward interest rate curves that impact basis swaps hedging repricing risk between quarterly reset debt and daily reset assets. Other unrealized gains are primarily the result of ineffectiveness on cross-currency interest rate swaps hedging foreign currency denominated debt related to differences between forward and spot foreign currency exchange rates.
 
3) Floor Income:  The timing and amount (if any) of Floor Income earned in our Lending operating segment is uncertain and in excess of expected spreads. Therefore, we exclude such income from “Core Earnings” when it is not economically hedged. We employ derivatives, primarily Floor Income Contracts and futures, to economically hedge Floor Income. As discussed above in “Derivative Accounting,” these derivatives do not qualify as effective accounting hedges, and therefore, under GAAP, they are marked-to-market through the “gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities, net” line in the consolidated statement of income with no offsetting gain or loss recorded for the economically hedged items. For “Core Earnings,” we reverse the fair value adjustments on the Floor Income Contracts and futures economically hedging Floor Income and include the amortization of net premiums received in income.


55


Table of Contents

The following table summarizes the Floor Income adjustments in our Lending operating segment for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                 
    Three Months
 
    Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
“Core Earnings” Floor Income adjustments:
               
Floor Income earned on Managed loans, net of payments on Floor Income Contracts
  $ 107     $ 32  
Amortization of net premiums on Floor Income Contracts and futures in net interest income
    (28 )     (38 )
                 
Total “Core Earnings” Floor Income adjustments(1)
  $ 79     $ (6 )
                 
 
 
(1) Negative amounts are subtracted from “Core Earnings” net income to arrive at GAAP net income and positive amounts are added to “Core Earnings” net income to arrive at GAAP net income.
 
4) Acquired Intangibles:  Our “Core Earnings” exclude goodwill and intangible impairment and the amortization of acquired intangibles. These amounts totaled $10 million and $15 million, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
LENDING BUSINESS SEGMENT
 
In our Lending business segment, we originate and acquire federally guaranteed student loans and Private Education Loans, which are not federally guaranteed. Typically a Private Education Loan is made in conjunction with a FFELP Stafford loan and as a result is marketed through the same marketing channels as FFELP loans. While FFELP loans and Private Education Loans have different overall risk profiles due to the federal guarantee of the FFELP loans, they currently share many of the same characteristics such as similar repayment terms, the same marketing channel and sales force, and are originated and serviced on the same servicing platform. Finally, where possible, the borrower receives a single bill for both FFELP and Private Education Loans.
 
On a Managed Basis, the Company had approximately $125.5 billion and $127.2 billion as of March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively, of FFELP loans indexed to three-month financial commercial paper rate (“CP”) that are funded with debt indexed to LIBOR. Due to the unintended consequences of government actions in other areas of the capital markets and limited issuances of qualifying financial commercial paper, the relationship between CP and LIBOR has been distorted and volatile. To address this issue for the fourth quarter of 2008, ED announced that for purposes of calculating the FFELP loan index from October 27, 2008 to the end of the fourth quarter, the Federal Reserve’s Commercial Paper Funding Facility rates (“CPFF”) would be used for those days in which no CP was available. This resulted in a CP/LIBOR spread of 21 basis points in the fourth quarter of 2008. The CP/LIBOR spread would have been 62 basis points in the fourth quarter of 2008 if ED had not addressed this issue by using the CPFF. On April 16, 2009, ED announced that for purposes of calculating the FFELP loan index for the first quarter of 2009, the formula would be based solely on CP, rather than the hybrid rate based on the CPFF and CP indices used for the fourth-quarter formula discussed above. This resulted in a CP/LIBOR spread of 52 basis points in the first quarter of 2009, compared to the CP/LIBOR spread of 21 basis points in the fourth quarter of 2008 and the historic average spread through the third quarter of 2008 of approximately 10 basis points. If the same hybrid method used in the fourth quarter of 2008 had been used in the first quarter of 2009, the CP/LIBOR spread would have been 26 basis points.
 
“Core Earnings” net interest income would have been $139 million higher in the first quarter of 2009 if the historical CP/LIBOR spread of 10 basis points had been in place.
 
Additionally, the index paid on ED’s Participation Program is based on the prior quarter’s CP rates, whereas the index earned on the underlying loans is based on the current quarter’s CP rates. The sharp decline in CP rates during the first quarter of 2009 resulted in $40 million of higher interest expense in the first quarter of 2009 related to loans financed in this program.


56


Table of Contents

The following table summarizes the “Core Earnings” results of operations for our Lending business segment.
 
                         
    Three Months
    Increase
 
    Ended
    (Decrease)  
    March 31,     2009 vs.
 
    2009     2008     2008  
 
“Core Earnings” interest income:
                       
FFELP Stafford and Other Student Loans
  $ 362     $ 494       (27 )%
FFELP Consolidation Loans
    439       989       (56 )
Private Education Loans
    563       749       (25 )
Other loans
    16       23       (30 )
Cash and investments
    3       142       (98 )
                         
Total “Core Earnings” interest income
    1,383       2,397       (42 )
Total “Core Earnings” interest expense
    949       1,824       (48 )
                         
Net “Core Earnings” interest income
    434       573       (24 )
Less: provisions for loan losses
    349       181       93  
                         
Net “Core Earnings” interest income after provisions for loan losses
    85       392       (78 )
Other income
    102       44       132  
Restructuring expenses
    1       15       (93 )
Operating expenses
    131       164       (20 )
                         
Total expenses
    132       179       (26 )
                         
Income before income tax expense
    55       257       (79 )
Income tax expense
    21       94       (78 )
                         
“Core Earnings” net income
  $ 34     $ 163       (79 )%
                         
 
Net Interest Income
 
Changes in net interest income are primarily due to fluctuations in the student loan and other asset spread discussed below, the growth of our student loan portfolio, and changes in the level of cash and investments we hold on our balance sheet for liquidity purposes.


57


Table of Contents

Average Balance Sheets — On-Balance Sheet
 
The following table reflects the rates earned on interest-earning assets and paid on interest-bearing liabilities for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008. This table reflects the net interest margin for the entire Company for our on-balance sheet assets. It is included in the Lending business segment discussion because this segment includes substantially all interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities.
 
                                 
    Three Months Ended March 31,  
    2009     2008  
    Balance     Rate     Balance     Rate  
 
Average Assets
                               
FFELP Stafford and Other Student Loans
  $ 55,681       2.50 %   $ 38,349       4.87 %
FFELP Consolidation Loans
    71,310       2.78       73,800       4.56  
Private Education Loans
    22,671       6.92       17,192       10.38  
Other loans
    709       9.39       1,194       7.87  
Cash and investments
    7,409       .33       12,264       4.06  
                                 
Total interest-earning assets
    157,780       3.19 %     142,799       5.33 %
                                 
Non-interest-earning assets
    9,468               9,546          
                                 
Total assets
  $ 167,248             $ 152,345          
                                 
Average Liabilities and Equity
                               
ED Participation Program facility
  $ 11,122       3.13 %   $       %
Term bank deposits
    1,119       3.57       460       4.63  
Other short-term borrowings
    31,601       2.91       35,515       4.77  
                                 
Total short-term borrowings
    43,842       2.98       35,975       4.77  
Long-term borrowings
    114,229       2.50       107,666       4.44  
                                 
Total interest-bearing liabilities
    158,071       2.63 %     143,641       4.52 %
                                 
Non-interest-bearing liabilities
    3,991               3,454          
Equity
    5,186               5,250          
                                 
Total liabilities and equity
  $ 167,248             $ 152,345          
                                 
Net interest margin
            .55 %             .78 %
                                 
 
Rate/Volume Analysis — On-Balance Sheet
 
The following rate/volume analysis illustrates the relative contribution of changes in interest rates and asset volumes.
 
                         
          Increase
 
          (Decrease)
 
          Attributable to
 
    Increase
    Change in  
    (Decrease)     Rate     Volume  
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2009 vs. Three Months Ended March 31, 2008
                       
Interest income
  $ (651 )   $ (896 )   $ 245  
Interest expense
    (590 )     (740 )     150  
                         
Net interest income
  $ (61 )   $ (156 )   $ 95  
                         


58


Table of Contents

 
Net Interest Margin — On-Balance Sheet
 
The following table reflects the net interest margin of on-balance sheet interest-earning assets, before provisions for loan losses. (Certain percentages do not add or subtract down as they are based on average balances.)
 
                 
    Three Months
 
    Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Student loan spread(1)(2)
    .95 %     .98 %
Other asset spread(1)(3)
    (2.18 )     .04  
                 
Net interest margin, before the impact of 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities fees(1)
    .79       .90  
Less: 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities fees
    (.24 )     (.12 )
                 
Net interest margin
    .55 %     .78 %
                 
                 
                 
               
(1)  Before certain commitment and liquidity fees associated with the 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities, which are referred to as the “2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities fees” (see “LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES — Additional Funding for General Corporate Purposes — Asset-Backed Financing Facilities” for a further discussion).
(2)  Composition of student loan spread:
Student loan yield, before Floor Income
    3.54 %     6.12 %
Gross Floor Income
    .49       .36  
Consolidation Loan Rebate Fees
    (.50 )     (.59 )
Repayment Borrower Benefits
    (.09 )     (.12 )
Premium and discount amortization
    (.14 )     (.35 )
                 
Student loan net yield
    3.30       5.42  
Student loan cost of funds
    (2.35 )     (4.44 )
                 
Student loan spread, before 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities fees
    .95 %     .98 %
                 
(3)  Comprised of investments, cash and other loans.
 
     Student Loan Spread — On-Balance Sheet
 
The student loan spread is impacted by changes in its various components, as reflected in footnote (2) to the “Net Interest Margin — On-Balance Sheet” table above. Gross Floor Income is impacted by interest rates and the percentage of the FFELP portfolio eligible to earn Floor Income. Floor Income Contracts used to economically hedge Gross Floor Income do not qualify as SFAS No. 133 hedges and as a result the net settlements on such contracts are not recorded in net interest margin but rather in the “gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities, net” line in the consolidated statements of income. The spread impact from Consolidation Loan Rebate Fees fluctuates as a function of the percentage of FFELP Consolidation Loans on our balance sheet. Repayment Borrower Benefits are generally impacted by the terms of the Repayment Borrower Benefits being offered as well as the payment behavior of the underlying loans. Premium and discount amortization is generally impacted by the prices previously paid for loans and amounts capitalized related to such purchases or originations. Premium and discount amortization is also impacted by prepayment behavior of the underlying loans.
 
The student loan spread, before 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities fees, for the first quarter of 2009 decreased 3 basis points from the year-ago quarter. The decrease from the year-ago quarter was primarily due to an increase in the Company’s cost of funds resulting from a 42 basis point widening of the CP/LIBOR spread between quarters, the ED’s Participation Program funding index being based on the prior quarter’s CP rates (both of which were previously discussed in “LENDING BUSINESS SEGMENT”) and an increase in the credit spreads on the Company’s debt issued during the last year due to the current credit environment. These decreases were partially offset by an increase in Floor Income resulting from a decrease in interest rates between quarters as well as a decrease in premium amortization. The decrease in premium amortization was a result of the Company’s decision in the first quarter of 2008 to cease consolidating FFELP Stafford loans and Consolidation Loans for the foreseeable future, which resulted in a one-time, cumulative catch-up adjustment


59


Table of Contents

in premium amortization expense, due to shortening the assumed average lives of Stafford loans, which previously had an assumption that a portion of the underlying Stafford loans would consolidate internally which extends the average life of such loans. Consolidation Loans generally have longer terms to maturity than Stafford loans. The premium amortization expense in the first quarter of 2009 is the normal run rate of premium expense expected.
 
The cost of funds for on-balance sheet student loans excludes the impact of basis swaps that are intended to economically hedge the re-pricing and basis mismatch between our funding and student loan asset indices, but do not receive hedge accounting treatment under SFAS No. 133. We extensively use basis swaps to manage our basis risk associated with our interest rate sensitive assets and liabilities. These swaps generally do not qualify as accounting hedges, and as a result, are required to be accounted for in the “gains (losses) on derivatives and hedging activities, net” line on the consolidated statements of income, as opposed to being accounted for in interest expense. As a result, these basis swaps are not considered in the calculation of the cost of funds in the table above and therefore, in times of volatile movements of interest rates like those experienced in 2008 and 2009, the student loan spread can significantly change. See “ ‘Core Earnings’ Net Interest Margin” in the following table, which reflects these basis swaps in interest expense and demonstrates the economic hedge effectiveness of these basis swaps.
 
Other Asset Spread — On-Balance Sheet
 
The other asset spread is generated from cash and investments (both restricted and unrestricted) primarily in our liquidity portfolio and other loans. The Company invests its liquidity portfolio primarily in short-term securities with maturities of one week or less in order to manage counterparty credit risk and maintain available cash balances. The other asset spread for the first quarter of 2009 decreased 222 basis points from the year-ago quarter. Changes in the other asset spread primarily relate to differences in the index basis and reset frequency between the asset indices and funding indices. A portion of this risk is hedged with derivatives that do not receive hedge accounting treatment under SFAS No. 133 and will impact the other asset spread in a similar fashion as the impact to the on-balance sheet student loan spread as discussed above. In volatile interest rate environments, these spreads may move significantly from period to period and differ from the “Core Earnings” basis other asset spread discussed below. In addition, the current steepness of the yield curve is negatively impacting this spread.
 
Net Interest Margin — On-Balance Sheet
 
Net interest margin, before 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities fees, for the first quarter of 2009 decreased 11 basis points from the year-ago quarter. The increase in the student loan portfolio as a percentage of the overall interest-earning asset portfolio resulted in an increase to net interest margin of 4 basis points due to the student loan portfolio earning a higher spread than the other asset portfolio. The remaining difference relates primarily to the previous discussions of changes in the on-balance sheet student loan and other asset spreads.
 
The 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities closed on February 29, 2008. Amortization of the upfront commitment and liquidity fees began on that date. Additional fees associated with the extension of these facilities began amortizing March 1, 2009. (See “LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES — Additional Funding Sources for General Corporate Purposes — Asset-Backed Financing Facilities” for a discussion of these facilities and their related extensions.)
 
“Core Earnings” Net Interest Margin
 
The following table analyzes the earnings from our portfolio of Managed interest-earning assets on a “Core Earnings” basis (see “BUSINESS SEGMENTS — Pre-tax Differences between ‘Core Earnings’ and GAAP by Business Segment”). The “ ‘Core Earnings’ Net Interest Margin” presentation and certain components used in the calculation differ from the “Net Interest Margin — On-Balance Sheet” presentation. The “Core Earnings” presentation, when compared to our on-balance sheet presentation, is different in that it:
 
  •  Includes the net interest margin related to our off-balance sheet student loan securitization trusts. This includes any related fees or costs such as the Consolidation Loan Rebate Fees, premium/discount amortization and Repayment Borrower Benefits yield adjustments;


60


Table of Contents

 
  •  Includes the reclassification of certain derivative net settlement amounts. The net settlements on certain derivatives that do not qualify as hedges under SFAS No. 133 are recorded as part of the “gain (loss) on derivative and hedging activities, net” line item on the income statement and are therefore not recognized in the on-balance sheet student loan spread. Under this presentation, these gains and losses are reclassified to the income statement line item of the economically hedged item. For our “Core Earnings” net interest margin, this would primarily include: (a) reclassifying the net settlement amounts related to our written Floor Income Contracts to student loan interest income and (b) reclassifying the net settlement amounts related to certain of our basis swaps to debt interest expense;
 
  •  Excludes unhedged Floor Income earned on the Managed student loan portfolio; and
 
  •  Includes the amortization of upfront payments on Floor Income Contracts in student loan income that we believe are economically hedging the Floor Income.
 
The following table reflects the “Core Earnings” net interest margin, before provisions for loan losses. (Certain percentages do not add or subtract down as they are based on average balances.)
 
                 
    Three Months
 
    Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
“Core Earnings” basis student loan spread(1):
               
FFELP loan spread
    .37 %     .59 %
Private Education Loan spread(2)
    4.68       5.38  
                 
Total “Core Earnings” basis student loan spread(3)
    1.20       1.47  
“Core Earnings” basis other asset spread(1)(4)
    (1.15 )     (.19 )
                 
“Core Earnings” net interest margin, before 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities fees(1)
    1.08       1.33  
Less: 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities fees
    (.19 )     (.09 )
                 
“Core Earnings” net interest margin(5)
    .89 %     1.24 %
                 
                 
               
(1) Before certain commitment and liquidity fees associated with the 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities, which are referred to as the “2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities fees” (see “LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES — Additional Funding for General Corporate Purposes — Asset-Backed Financing Facilities” for a further discussion).
                 
(2) “Core Earnings” basis Private Education Loan Spread, before 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities fees and after provision for loan losses
    1.31 %     3.29 %
                 
(3) Composition of “Core Earnings” basis student loan spread:
               
“Core Earnings” basis student loan yield
    3.70 %     6.35 %
Consolidation Loan Rebate Fees
    (.49 )     (.55 )
Repayment Borrower Benefits
    (.09 )     (.11 )
Premium and discount amortization
    (.13 )     (.36 )
                 
“Core Earnings” basis student loan net yield
    2.99       5.33  
“Core Earnings” basis student loan cost of funds
    (1.79 )     (3.86 )
                 
“Core Earnings” basis student loan spread, before 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities fees
    1.20 %     1.47 %
                 
(4) Comprised of investments, cash and other loans.
               
(5) The average balances of our Managed interest-earning assets for the respective periods are:
               
FFELP loans
  $ 149,422     $ 137,748  
Private Education Loans
    35,817       30,756  
                 
Total student loans
    185,239       168,504  
Other interest-earning assets
    9,622       15,996  
                 
Total Managed interest-earning assets
  $ 194,861     $ 184,500  
                 
 
“Core Earnings” Basis Student Loan Spread
 
The “Core Earnings” basis student loan spread, before the 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities fees, for the first quarter of 2009 decreased 27 basis points from the year-ago quarter. The “Core Earnings” basis student loan spread was negatively impacted by an increase in the Company’s cost of funds resulting from a 42 basis point widening of the CP/LIBOR spread between quarters, the ED’s Participation Program funding


61


Table of Contents

index being based on the prior quarter’s CP rates (both of which were previously discussed in “LENDING BUSINESS SEGMENT”) and an increase in the credit spreads on the Company’s debt issued during the last year due to the current credit environment. These decreases were partially offset by a decrease in premium amortization. The decrease in premium amortization was a result of the Company’s decision in the first quarter of 2008 to cease consolidating FFELP Stafford loans and Consolidation Loans for the foreseeable future, which resulted in a one-time, cumulative catch-up adjustment in premium amortization expense, due to shortening the assumed average lives of Stafford loans, which previously had an assumption that a portion of the underlying Stafford loans would consolidate internally which extends the average life of such loans. Consolidation Loans generally have longer terms to maturity than Stafford loans. The premium amortization expense in the first quarter of 2009 is the normal run rate of premium expense expected.
 
The “Core Earnings” basis FFELP loan spread for the first quarter of 2009 declined from the year-ago quarter primarily as a result of the increase in the cost of funds previously discussed, as well as the mix of the FFELP portfolio shifting towards loans originated subsequent to October 1, 2007 which have lower yields as a result of the CCRAA. This decrease was partially offset by a decrease in premium amortization as a result of the Company’s decision to cease consolidating FFELP Stafford loans and Consolidation Loans for the foreseeable future, which resulted in a one-time, cumulative catch-up adjustment in premium amortization expense in the year-ago quarter, due to shortening the assumed average lives of Stafford loans, which previously had an assumption that a portion of the underlying Stafford loans would consolidate internally which extends the average life of such loans. Consolidation Loans generally have longer terms to maturity than Stafford loans.
 
The “Core Earnings” basis Private Education Loan spread before provision for loan losses for the first quarter of 2009 was negatively impacted by the increase in the cost of funds discussed previously. The changes in the “Core Earnings” basis Private Education Loan spread after provision for loan losses for all periods presented was primarily due to the timing and amount of provision associated with our allowance for Private Education Loan Losses as discussed below (see “Private Education Loan Losses — Activity in the Allowance for Private Education Loan Losses”).
 
“Core Earnings” Basis Other Asset Spread
 
The “Core Earnings” basis other asset spread is generated from cash and investments (both restricted and unrestricted) primarily in our liquidity portfolio, and other loans. The Company invests its liquidity portfolio primarily in short-term securities with maturities of one week or less in order to manage counterparty credit risk and maintain available cash balances. The “Core Earnings” basis other asset spread for the first quarter of 2009 decreased 96 basis points from the year-ago quarter. Changes in this spread primarily relate to differences between the index basis and reset frequency of the asset indices and funding indices. In volatile interest rate environments, the asset and debt reset frequencies will lag each other. In addition, the current steepness of the yield curve is negatively impacting this spread. Changes in this spread are also a result of the increase in our cost of funds as previously discussed.
 
“Core Earnings” Net Interest Margin
 
“Core Earnings” net interest margin, before 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities fees, for the first quarter of 2009 decreased 25 basis points from the year-ago quarter. The increase in the Managed student loan portfolio as a percentage of the overall Managed interest-earning asset portfolio resulted in an increase to “Core Earnings” net interest margin of 6 basis points due to the Managed student loan portfolio earning a higher spread than the Managed other interest-earning asset portfolio. This was offset by a decrease of 31 basis points primarily due to the previously discussed changes in the student loan and other asset spreads.
 
The 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities closed on February 29, 2008. Amortization of the upfront commitment and liquidity fees began on that date. Additional fees associated with the extension of these facilities began amortizing March 1, 2009. (See “LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES — Additional Funding Sources for General Corporate Purposes — Asset-Backed Financing Facilities” for a discussion of these facilities and their related extensions.)


62


Table of Contents

Summary of our Managed Student Loan Portfolio
 
The following tables summarize the components of our Managed student loan portfolio and show the changing composition of our portfolio.
 
Ending Managed Student Loan Balances, net
 
                                         
    March 31, 2009  
    FFELP
    FFELP
          Private
       
    Stafford and
    Consolidation
    Total
    Education
       
    Other(1)     Loans     FFELP     Loans     Total  
 
On-balance sheet:
                                       
In-school
  $ 22,325     $     $ 22,325     $ 8,572     $ 30,897  
Grace and repayment
    34,443       69,685       104,128       14,728       118,856  
                                         
Total on-balance sheet, gross
    56,768       69,685       126,453       23,300       149,753  
On-balance sheet unamortized premium (discount)
    1,177       1,251       2,428       (535 )     1,893  
On-balance sheet receivable for partially charged-off loans
                      265       265  
On-balance sheet allowance for losses
    (101 )     (51 )     (152 )     (1,385 )     (1,537 )
                                         
Total on-balance sheet, net
    57,844       70,885       128,729       21,645       150,374  
                                         
Off-balance sheet:
                                       
In-school
    423             423       1,481       1,904  
Grace and repayment
    6,342       14,899       21,241       12,080       33,321  
                                         
Total off-balance sheet, gross
    6,765       14,899       21,664       13,561       35,225  
Off-balance sheet unamortized premium (discount)
    100       453       553       (358 )     195  
Off-balance sheet receivable for partially charged-off loans
                      108       108  
Off-balance sheet allowance for losses
    (19 )     (9 )     (28 )     (539 )     (567 )
                                         
Total off-balance sheet, net
    6,846       15,343       22,189       12,772       34,961  
                                         
Total Managed
  $ 64,690     $ 86,228     $ 150,918     $ 34,417     $ 185,335  
                                         
% of on-balance sheet FFELP
    45 %     55 %     100 %                
% of Managed FFELP
    43 %     57 %     100 %                
% of total
    35 %     46 %     81 %     19 %     100 %
 
 
(1) FFELP category is primarily Stafford loans, but also includes federally insured PLUS and HEAL loans.
 


63


Table of Contents

                                         
    December 31, 2008  
    FFELP
    FFELP
          Private
       
    Stafford and
    Consolidation
    Total
    Education
       
    Other(1)     Loans     FFELP     Loans     Total  
 
On-balance sheet:
                                       
In-school
  $ 18,961     $     $ 18,961     $ 7,972     $ 26,933  
Grace and repayment
    32,455       70,511       102,966       14,231       117,197  
                                         
Total on-balance sheet, gross
    51,416       70,511       121,927       22,203       144,130  
On-balance sheet unamortized premium (discount)
    1,151       1,280       2,431       (535 )     1,896  
On-balance sheet receivable for partially charged-off loans
                      222       222  
On-balance sheet allowance for losses
    (91 )     (47 )     (138 )     (1,308 )     (1,446 )
                                         
Total on-balance sheet, net
    52,476       71,744       124,220       20,582       144,802  
                                         
Off-balance sheet:
                                       
In-school
    473             473       1,629       2,102  
Grace and repayment
    6,583       15,078       21,661       12,062       33,723  
                                         
Total off-balance sheet, gross
    7,056       15,078       22,134       13,691       35,825  
Off-balance sheet unamortized premium (discount)
    105       462       567       (361 )     206  
Off-balance sheet receivable for partially charged-off loans
                      92       92  
Off-balance sheet allowance for losses
    (18 )     (9 )     (27 )     (505 )     (532 )
                                         
Total off-balance sheet, net
    7,143       15,531       22,674       12,917       35,591  
                                         
Total Managed
  $ 59,619     $ 87,275     $ 146,894     $ 33,499     $ 180,393  
                                         
% of on-balance sheet FFELP
    42 %     58 %     100 %                
% of Managed FFELP
    41 %     59 %     100 %                
% of total
    33 %     48 %     81 %     19 %     100 %
 
 
(1) FFELP category is primarily Stafford loans, but also includes federally insured PLUS and HEAL loans.
 
Student Loan Average Balances (net of unamortized premium/discount)
 
The following tables summarize the components of our Managed student loan portfolio and show the changing composition of our portfolio.
 
                                         
    Three Months Ended March 31, 2009  
    FFELP
    FFELP
          Private
       
    Stafford and
    Consolidation
    Total
    Education
       
    Other(1)     Loans     FFELP     Loans     Total  
 
On-balance sheet
  $ 55,681     $ 71,310     $ 126,991     $ 22,671     $ 149,662  
Off-balance sheet
    6,998       15,433       22,431       13,146       35,577  
                                         
Total Managed
  $ 62,679     $ 86,743     $ 149,422     $ 35,817     $ 185,239  
                                         
% of on-balance sheet FFELP
    44 %     56 %     100 %                
% of Managed FFELP
    42 %     58 %     100 %                
% of total
    34 %     47 %     81 %     19 %     100 %
 
 
(1) FFELP category is primarily Stafford loans, but also includes federally insured PLUS and HEAL loans.
 

64


Table of Contents

                                         
    Three Months Ended March 31, 2008  
    FFELP
    FFELP
          Private
       
    Stafford and
    Consolidation
    Total
    Education
       
    Other(1)     Loans     FFELP     Loans     Total  
 
On-balance sheet
  $ 38,349     $ 73,800     $ 112,149     $ 17,192     $ 129,341  
Off-balance sheet
    9,260       16,339       25,599       13,564       39,163  
                                         
Total Managed
  $ 47,609     $ 90,139     $ 137,748     $ 30,756     $ 168,504  
                                         
% of on-balance sheet FFELP
    34 %     66 %     100 %                
% of Managed FFELP
    35 %     65 %     100 %                
% of total
    28 %     54 %     82 %     18 %     100 %
 
 
(1) FFELP category is primarily Stafford loans, but also includes federally insured PLUS and HEAL loans.
 
Floor Income — Managed Basis
 
The following table analyzes the ability of the FFELP loans in our Managed portfolio to earn Floor Income after March 31, 2009 and 2008, based on interest rates as of those dates.
 
                                                 
    March 31, 2009     March 31, 2008  
    Fixed
    Variable
          Fixed
    Variable
       
    Borrower
    Borrower
          Borrower
    Borrower
       
(Dollars in billions)
  Rate     Rate     Total     Rate     Rate     Total  
 
Student loans eligible to earn Floor Income:
                                               
On-balance sheet student loans
  $ 109.9     $ 15.6     $ 125.5     $ 94.6     $ 16.5     $ 111.1  
Off-balance sheet student loans
    14.8       6.7       21.5       15.7       8.9       24.6  
                                                 
Managed student loans eligible to earn Floor Income
    124.7       22.3       147.0       110.3       25.4       135.7  
Less: post-March 31, 2006 disbursed loans required to rebate Floor Income
    (69.8 )     (1.3 )     (71.1 )     (52.5 )     (1.5 )     (54.0 )
Less: economically hedged Floor Income Contracts
    (21.2 )     (10.0 )     (31.2 )     (25.7 )     (17.1 )     (42.8 )
                                                 
Net Managed student loans eligible to earn Floor Income
  $ 33.7     $ 11.0     $ 44.7     $ 32.1     $ 6.8     $ 38.9  
                                                 
Net Managed student loans earning Floor Income as of March 31
  $ 24.4     $ 11.0     $ 35.4     $ 1.9     $ 6.8     $ 8.7  
                                                 
 
We have sold Floor Income Contracts to hedge the potential Floor Income from specifically identified pools of FFELP Consolidation Loans that are eligible to earn Floor Income.
 
The following table presents a projection of the average Managed balance of FFELP Consolidation Loans for which Fixed Rate Floor Income has already been economically hedged through Floor Income Contracts for the period from April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2013. These loans are both on-balance sheet and off-balance sheet, and the related hedges do not qualify under SFAS No. 133 accounting as effective hedges.
 
                                         
    April 1, 2009 to
               
(Dollars in billions)
  December 31, 2009   2010   2011   2012   2013
 
Average balance of FFELP Consolidation Loans whose Floor Income is economically hedged (Managed Basis)
  $ 21     $ 19     $ 16     $ 16     $ 4  
                                         

65


Table of Contents

Private Education Loan Losses
 
On-Balance Sheet versus Managed Basis Presentation
 
All Private Education Loans are initially acquired on-balance sheet. The securitization of Private Education Loans prior to 2009 has been accounted for off-balance sheet under SFAS No. 140. For our Managed Basis presentation in the table below, when loans are securitized, we reduce the on-balance sheet allowance for loan losses for amounts previously provided and then increase the allowance for loan losses for these loans off-balance sheet, with the total of both on-balance sheet and off-balance sheet being the Managed Basis allowance for loan losses.
 
When Private Education Loans in our securitized trusts settling before September 30, 2005, became 180 days delinquent, we previously exercised our contingent call option to repurchase these loans at par value out of the trust and recorded a loss for the difference in the par value paid and the fair market value of the loan at the time of purchase. We account for these loans in accordance with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants’ (“AICPA”) Statement of Position (“SOP”) 03-3, “Accounting for Certain Loans or Debt Securities Acquired in a Transfer.” Revenue is recognized over the anticipated remaining life of the loan based upon the amount and timing of anticipated cash flows. Beginning in October 2008, the Company decided to no longer exercise its contingent call option. On a Managed Basis, the losses recorded under GAAP for loans repurchased at day 180 are reversed and the full amount is charged-off at day 212. We do not hold the contingent call option for any trusts settled after September 30, 2005.
 
When measured as a percentage of ending loans in repayment, the off-balance sheet allowance for loan losses is lower than the on-balance sheet percentage because of the different mix of loans on-balance sheet and off-balance sheet.


66


Table of Contents

Private Education Loan Delinquencies and Forbearance
 
The tables below present our Private Education Loan delinquency trends as of March 31, 2009 and 2008. Delinquencies have the potential to adversely impact earnings as they are an initial indication of the borrower’s potential to possibly default and as a result command a higher loan loss reserve than loans in current status. Delinquent loans also require increased servicing and collection efforts, resulting in higher operating costs.
 
                                 
    On-Balance Sheet Private Education
 
    Loan Delinquencies  
    March 31,
    March 31,
 
    2009     2008  
    Balance     %     Balance     %  
 
Loans in-school/grace/deferment(1)
  $ 11,205             $ 9,743          
Loans in forbearance(2)
    861               1,281          
Loans in repayment and percentage of each status:
                               
Loans current
    9,410       83.8 %     6,649       90.0 %
Loans delinquent 31-60 days(3)
    515       4.6       261       3.5  
Loans delinquent 61-90 days(3)
    403       3.6       148       2.0  
Loans delinquent greater than 90 days(3)
    905       8.0       330       4.5  
                                 
Total Private Education Loans in repayment
    11,233       100 %     7,388       100 %
                                 
Total Private Education Loans, gross
    23,299               18,412          
Private Education Loan unamortized discount
    (535 )             (496 )        
                                 
Total Private Education Loans
    22,764               17,916          
Private Education Loan receivable for partially charged-off loans
    265               135          
Private Education Loan allowance for losses
    (1,384 )             (1,074 )        
                                 
Private Education Loans, net
  $ 21,645             $ 16,977          
                                 
Percentage of Private Education Loans in repayment
            48.2 %             40.1 %
                                 
Delinquencies as a percentage of Private Education Loans in repayment
            16.2 %             10.0 %
                                 
Loans in forbearance as a percentage of loans in repayment and forbearance
            7.1 %             14.8 %
                                 
 
 
(1) Loans for borrowers who may be attending school or engaging in other permitted educational activities and are not yet required to make payments on the loans, e.g., residency periods for medical students or a grace period for bar exam preparation.
 
(2) Loans for borrowers who have used their allowable deferment time or do not qualify for deferment, and need additional time to obtain employment or who have temporarily ceased making full payments due to hardship or other factors, consistent with the established loan program servicing policies and procedures.
 
(3) The period of delinquency is based on the number of days scheduled payments are contractually past due.
 


67


Table of Contents

                                 
    Off-Balance Sheet Private Education
 
    Loan Delinquencies  
    March 31,
    March 31,
 
    2009     2008  
    Balance     %     Balance     %  
 
Loans in-school/grace/deferment(1)
  $ 3,419             $ 4,780          
Loans in forbearance(2)
    619               1,639          
Loans in repayment and percentage of each status:
                               
Loans current
    8,570       90.0 %     7,128       95.3 %
Loans delinquent 31-60 days(3)
    297       3.1       151       2.0  
Loans delinquent 61-90 days(3)
    222       2.3       75       1.0  
Loans delinquent greater than 90 days(3)
    434       4.6       128       1.7  
                                 
Total Private Education Loans in repayment
    9,523       100 %     7,482       100 %
                                 
Total Private Education Loans, gross
    13,561               13,901          
Private Education Loan unamortized discount
    (359 )             (355 )        
                                 
Total Private Education Loans
    13,202               13,546          
Private Education Loan receivable for partially charged-off loans
    109               41          
Private Education Loan allowance for losses
    (539 )             (373 )        
                                 
Private Education Loans, net
  $ 12,772             $ 13,214          
                                 
Percentage of Private Education Loans in repayment
            70.2 %             53.8 %
                                 
Delinquencies as a percentage of Private Education Loans in repayment
            10.0 %             4.7 %
                                 
Loans in forbearance as a percentage of loans in repayment and forbearance
            6.1 %             18.0 %
                                 
 
                                 
    Managed Basis Private Education
 
    Loan Delinquencies  
    March 31, 2009     March 31, 2008  
    Balance     %     Balance     %  
 
Loans in-school/grace/deferment(1)
  $ 14,624             $ 14,523          
Loans in forbearance(2)
    1,480               2,920          
Loans in repayment and percentage of each status:
                               
Loans current
    17,980       86.6 %     13,777       92.6 %
Loans delinquent 31-60 days(3)
    812       3.9       412       2.8  
Loans delinquent 61-90 days(3)
    625       3.0       223       1.5  
Loans delinquent greater than 90 days(3)
    1,339       6.5       458       3.1  
                                 
Total Private Education Loans in repayment
    20,756       100 %     14,870       100 %
                                 
Total Private Education Loans, gross
    36,860               32,313          
Private Education Loan unamortized discount
    (894 )             (851 )        
                                 
Total Private Education Loans
    35,966               31,462          
Private Education Loan receivable for partially charged-off loans
    374               176          
Private Education Loan allowance for losses
    (1,923 )             (1,447 )        
                                 
Private Education Loans, net
  $ 34,417             $ 30,191          
                                 
Percentage of Private Education Loans in repayment
            56.3 %             46.0 %
                                 
Delinquencies as a percentage of Private Education Loans in repayment
            13.4 %             7.4 %
                                 
Loans in forbearance as a percentage of loans in repayment and forbearance
            6.7 %             16.4 %
                                 
 
 
(1) Loans for borrowers who may be attending school or engaging in other permitted educational activities and are not yet required to make payments on the loans, e.g., residency periods for medical students or a grace period for bar exam preparation.
 
(2) Loans for borrowers who have used their allowable deferment time or do not qualify for deferment, and need additional time to obtain employment or who have temporarily ceased making full payments due to hardship or other factors, consistent with the established loan program servicing policies and procedures.
 
(3) The period of delinquency is based on the number of days scheduled payments are contractually past due.

68


Table of Contents

 
Receivable for Partially Charged-Off Loans
 
The following tables summarize the activity in the receivable for partially charged-off loans (see “Activity in the Allowance for Private Education Loan Losses” below for a further discussion) for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                         
    Three Months Ended March 31, 2009  
    On-balance
    Off-balance
    Managed
 
    sheet     sheet     Basis  
 
Receivable at beginning of period
  $ 222.4     $ 91.1     $ 313.5  
Expected future recoveries of current period defaults
    53.0       19.6       72.6  
Recoveries
    (10.1 )     (2.2 )     (12.3 )
                         
Receivable at end of period
  $ 265.3     $ 108.5     $ 373.8  
                         
                         
                         
    Three Months Ended March 31, 2008  
    On-balance
    Off-balance
    Managed
 
    sheet     sheet     Basis  
 
Receivable at beginning of period
  $ 118.0     $ 27.6     $ 145.6  
Expected future recoveries of current period defaults
    26.8       15.4       42.2  
Recoveries
    (9.9 )     (1.8 )     (11.7 )
                         
Receivable at end of period
  $ 134.9     $ 41.2     $ 176.1  
                         
 
Activity in the Allowance for Private Education Loan Losses
 
As discussed in the Company’s 2008 Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the SEC on March 2, 2009, the Company has changed its methodology used to present charge-offs related to Private Education Loans to more clearly reflect the expected loss. Net income, provision for loan loss expense, the net loan balance, default rate and expected recovery rate assumptions were not impacted by this change. Based on our historic experience, we expect to recover a portion of loans that default. This expected recovery is taken into account in arriving at our periodic provision for loan loss expense. Previously, once a loan was delinquent for 212 days, we charged off 100 percent of the loan balance, even though we had provisioned for the estimated loss of the defaulted loan balance, comprised of the full loan balance less the expected recovery.
 
The Company changed its methodology to charge off the estimated loss of the defaulted loan balance to be consistent with the amount included in the provision. Actual recoveries are applied against the remaining loan balance that was not charged off. If actual periodic recoveries are less than originally expected, the difference results in immediate additional provision expense and charge off of such amount.
 
This revised methodology results in a charge-off equal to the amount provided for through the allowance for loan loss. As a result, the Company believes that this methodology better reflects the actual events occurring. Although there is diversity in practice on how charge-offs are presented, this method is more comparable to other financial institutions in how charge-offs and the related charge-off and allowance ratios are presented. The Company emphasizes that although the presentation improves the various charge-off and allowance ratios, the change does not reflect an improvement in the collectability of the Company’s loan portfolio.
 
As a result of this change, a $314 million receivable on a Managed basis ($222 million for GAAP) as of December 31, 2008, was reclassified from the allowance for loan loss to the Private Education Loan balance. This receivable for partially charged-off loans represents the expected future recoveries related to previously defaulted loans (i.e., the amount not charged off when a loan defaults that has not yet been collected). As of March 31, 2009, the Company assumes it will collect, on average, 27 percent of a defaulted loan’s balance over an extended period of time. This recovery assumption is based on historic recovery rates achieved and is updated, as appropriate, on a quarterly basis (see “Receivable for Partially Charged-off Loans,” above).


69


Table of Contents

The following table summarizes changes in the allowance for Private Education Loan losses for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                                                 
    Activity in Allowance for Private Education Loan Losses  
    On-Balance Sheet
    Off-Balance Sheet
    Managed Basis
 
    Three Months Ended     Three Months Ended     Three Months Ended  
    March 31,
    March 31,
    March 31,
    March 31,
    March 31,
    March 31,
 
    2009     2008     2009     2008     2009     2008  
 
Allowance at beginning of period
  $ 1,308     $ 1,004     $ 505     $ 362     $ 1,813     $ 1,366  
Provision for Private Education
                                               
Loan losses
    203       119       94       41       297       160  
Charge-offs
    (139 )     (58 )     (63 )     (31 )     (202 )     (89 )
Reclassification of interest reserve(1)
    12       9       3       1       15       10  
                                                 
Allowance at end of period
  $ 1,384     $ 1,074     $ 539     $ 373     $ 1,923     $ 1,447  
                                                 
Charge-offs as a percentage of average loans in repayment (annualized)
    5.1 %     3.3 %     2.7 %     1.7 %     4.0 %     2.5 %
Charge-offs as a percentage of average loans in repayment and forbearance (annualized)
    4.7 %     2.8 %     2.5 %     1.4 %     3.7 %     2.0 %
Allowance as a percentage of the ending total loan balance
    5.9 %     5.8 %     3.9 %     2.7 %     5.2 %     4.5 %
Allowance as a percentage of ending loans in repayment
    12.3 %     14.5 %     5.7 %     5.0 %     9.3 %     9.7 %
Average coverage of charge-offs (annualized)
    2.5       4.7       2.1       2.9       2.3       4.0  
Ending total loans(2)
  $ 23,564     $ 18,547     $ 13,669     $ 13,942     $ 37,233     $ 32,489  
Average loans in repayment
  $ 11,107     $ 7,096     $ 9,413     $ 7,466     $ 20,520     $ 14,562  
Ending loans in repayment
  $ 11,233     $ 7,388     $ 9,523     $ 7,482     $ 20,756     $ 14,870  
 
 
(1) Represents the additional allowance related to the amount of uncollectible interest reserved within interest income that is transferred in the period to the allowance for loan losses when interest is capitalized to a loan’s principal balance.
 
(2) Ending total loans represents gross Private Education Loans, plus the receivable for partially charged-off loans.


70


Table of Contents

 
The following table provides the detail for our traditional and non-traditional Managed Private Education Loans at March 31, 2009 and March 31, 2008.
 
                                                 
    March 31, 2009     March 31, 2008  
          Non-
                Non-
       
    Traditional     Traditional     Total     Traditional     Traditional     Total  
 
Ending total loans(1)
  $ 32,137     $ 5,096     $ 37,233     $ 27,576     $ 4,913     $ 32,489  
Ending loans in repayment
    17,765       2,991       20,756       12,683       2,187       14,870  
Private Education Loan allowance for losses
    959       964       1,923       545       902       1,447  
Charge-offs as a percentage of average loans in repayment (annualized)
    2.2 %     14.5 %     4.0 %     1.1 %     10.3 %     2.5 %
Allowance as a percentage of ending total loan balance
    3.0 %     18.9 %     5.2 %     2.0 %     18.4 %     4.5 %
Allowance as a percentage of ending loans in repayment
    5.4 %     32.2 %     9.3 %     4.3 %     41.3 %     9.7 %
Average coverage of charge-offs (annualized)
    2.4       2.3       2.3       3.9       4.1       4.0  
Delinquencies as a percentage of Private Education Loans in repayment
    9.7 %     35.1 %     13.4 %     4.6 %     23.3 %     7.4 %
Delinquencies greater than 90 days as a percentage of Private Education Loans in repayment
    4.3 %     19.1 %     6.5 %     1.8 %     10.7 %     3.1 %
Loans in forbearance as a percentage of loans in repayment and forbearance
    6.3 %     8.5 %     6.7 %     15.5 %     21.4 %     16.4 %
 
 
(1) Ending total loans represents gross Private Education Loans, plus the receivable for partially charged-off loans.
 
Managed provision expense increased from $160 million in the first quarter of 2008 to $297 million in the first quarter of 2009. This increase is due to the continued weakening of the U.S. economy. The Private Education Loan portfolio has experienced a significant increase in delinquencies from the year-ago quarter and prior quarter and the Company expects a continued increase in charge-off levels in the near term. This increase in delinquency and charge-off levels was generally anticipated as of December 31, 2008 and as a result was reflected in our allowance for loan losses as of December 31, 2008. Managed delinquencies as a percentage of Private Education Loans in repayment increased from 10.2 percent as of December 31, 2008 to 13.4 percent as of March 31, 2009. Managed Private Education Loans in forbearance as a percentage of loans in repayment and forbearance decreased from 7.0 percent as of December 31, 2008 to 6.7 percent at March 31, 2009. On a year-over-year basis, overall delinquencies increased 6 percent while forbearances decreased 9.7 percent.
 
Borrowers use the proceeds of Private Education Loans to obtain higher education, which increases the likelihood of obtaining employment at higher income levels than would be available without the additional education. As a result, borrowers’ repayment capability is expected to improve between the time the loan is made and the time they enter the post-education work force. Consistent with FFELP loans, we generally allow the loan repayment period on higher education Private Education Loans to begin six months after the borrower graduates (or “grace period”). This provides the borrower time after graduation to obtain a job to service the debt. For borrowers that need more time or experience hardships, we offer periods of forbearance similar to that provided to borrowers in the FFELP.
 
Forbearance involves granting the borrower a temporary cessation of payments (or temporary acceptance of smaller than scheduled payments) for a specified period of time. Using forbearance in this manner effectively extends the original term of the loan. Forbearance does not grant any reduction in the total repayment obligation (principal or interest). While a loan is in forbearance status, interest continues to accrue and is capitalized to principal when the loan re-enters repayment status. Our forbearance policies include limits on the number of forbearance months granted consecutively and the total number of forbearance months


71


Table of Contents

granted over the life of the loan. In some instances, we require good-faith payments before granting the forbearance. Exceptions to forbearance policies are permitted when such exceptions are judged to increase the likelihood of ultimate collection of the loan. Forbearance as a collection tool is used most effectively when applied based on a borrower’s unique situation, including assumptions based on historical information and judgments. We combine borrower information with a risk-based segmentation model to assist in our decision making as to who will be granted forbearance based on our expectation of a borrower’s ability and willingness to repay their obligation. This strategy is aimed at mitigating the overall risk of the portfolio as well as encouraging cash resolution of delinquent loans.
 
Forbearance may be granted to borrowers who are exiting their grace period to provide additional time to obtain employment and income to support their obligations, or to current borrowers who are faced with a hardship and request forbearance time to provide temporary payment relief. In these circumstances, a borrower’s loan is placed into a forbearance status in limited monthly increments and is reflected in the forbearance status at month-end during this time. At the end of their granted forbearance period, the borrower will enter repayment status as current and is expected to begin making their scheduled monthly payments on a go-forward basis.
 
Forbearance may also be granted to borrowers who are delinquent in their payments. In these circumstances, the forbearance cures the delinquency and the borrower is returned to a current repayment status. In more limited instances, delinquent borrowers will also be granted additional forbearance time. As we have obtained further experience about the effectiveness of forbearance, we have reduced the amount of time a loan will spend in forbearance, thereby increasing our ongoing contact with the borrower to encourage consistent repayment behavior once the loan is returned to a current repayment status. As a result, the balance of loans in a forbearance status as of month end has decreased over the course of 2008 and 2009, while the monthly average amount of loans granted forbearance in the first quarter of 2009 was consistent with the year-ago quarter at 6.4 percent of loans in repayment and forbearance. As of March 31, 2009, 1.5 percent of loans in current status were delinquent as of the end of the prior month, but were granted a forbearance that made them current during March. The majority of these borrowers would have previously received a forbearance which resulted in their loan being reflected in the forbearance status at month end, and eventually entering repayment status as current at the end of the forbearance period. These borrowers are now being placed in repayment status earlier than they previously would have been.
 
The table below reflects the historical effectiveness of using forbearance. Our experience has shown that three years after being granted forbearance for the first time, over 70 percent of the loans are current, paid in full, or receiving an in-school grace or deferment, and 12.2 percent have defaulted. The default experience associated with loans which utilize forbearance is considered in our allowance for loan losses.
 
                         
Tracking by First Time in Forbearance Compared to All Loans Entering Repayment  
    Status distribution
          Status distribution
 
    36 months after
    Status distribution
    36 months after
 
    being granted
    36 months after
    entering repayment for
 
    forbearance for the
    entering repayment
    loans never entering
 
    first time     (all loans)     forbearance  
 
In-school/grace/deferment
    8.1 %     8.0 %     2.6 %
Current
    54.9       59.9       66.1  
Delinquent 31-60 days
    3.2       2.0       .4  
Delinquent 61-90 days
    1.8       1.0       .2  
Delinquent greater than 90 days
    3.2       1.9       .3  
Forbearance
    6.8       4.8        
Defaulted
    12.2       6.3       4.7  
Paid
    9.8       16.1       25.7  
                         
Total
    100 %     100 %     100 %
                         


72


Table of Contents

The tables below show the composition and status of the Managed Private Education Loan portfolio aged by number of months in active repayment status (months for which a scheduled monthly payment was due). As indicated in the tables, the percentage of loans in forbearance decreases the longer the loans have been in active repayment status. At March 31, 2009, loans in forbearance status as a percentage of loans in repayment and forbearance are 8.7 percent for loans that have been in active repayment status for less than 25 months. The percentage drops to 1.5 percent for loans that have been in active repayment status for more than 48 months. Approximately 92 percent of our Managed Private Education Loans in forbearance status have been in active repayment status less than 25 months.
 
                                         
    Monthly Scheduled Payments Due     Not Yet in
       
March 31, 2009
  0 to 24     25 to 48     More than 48     Repayment     Total  
 
Loans in-school/grace/deferment
  $     $     $     $ 14,624     $ 14,624  
Loans in forbearance
    1,356       89       35             1,480  
Loans in repayment — current
    11,751       3,971       2,258             17,980  
Loans in repayment — delinquent 31-60 days
    674       91       47             812  
Loans in repayment — delinquent 61-90 days
    554       49       22             625  
Loans in repayment — delinquent greater than 90 days
    1,193       99       47             1,339  
                                         
Total
  $ 15,528     $ 4,299     $ 2,409     $ 14,624       36,860  
                                         
Unamortized discount
                                    (894 )
Receivable for partially charged-off loans
                                    374  
Allowance for loan losses
                                    (1,923 )
                                         
Total Managed Private Education Loans, net
                                  $ 34,417  
                                         
Loans in forbearance as a percentage of loans in repayment and forbearance
    8.7 %     2.1 %     1.5 %     %     6.7 %
                                         
 
                                         
    Monthly Scheduled Payments Due     Not Yet in
       
March 31, 2008
  0 to 24     25 to 48     More than 48     Repayment     Total  
 
Loans in-school/grace/deferment
  $     $     $     $ 14,523     $ 14,523  
Loans in forbearance
    2,759       124       37             2,920  
Loans in repayment — current
    9,242       2,884       1,651             13,777  
Loans in repayment — delinquent 31-60 days
    344       42       26             412  
Loans in repayment — delinquent 61-90 days
    194       19       10             223  
Loans in repayment — delinquent greater than 90 days
    388       46       24             458  
                                         
Total
  $ 12,927     $ 3,115     $ 1,748     $ 14,523       32,313  
                                         
Unamortized discount
                                    (851 )
Receivable for partially charged-off loans
                                    176  
Allowance for loan losses
                                    (1,447 )
                                         
Total Managed Private Education Loans, net
                                  $ 30,191  
                                         
Loans in forbearance as a percentage of loans in repayment and forbearance
    21.4 %     4.0 %     2.1 %     %     16.4 %
                                         


73


Table of Contents

The table below stratifies the portfolio of Managed Private Education Loans in forbearance status as of the dates indicated by the cumulative number of months the borrower has used forbearance. As detailed in the table below, 8 percent of loans currently in forbearance have cumulative forbearance of more than 24 months.
 
                                 
    March 31, 2009     March 31, 2008  
    Forbearance
    % of
    Forbearance
    % of
 
Cumulative number of months borrower has used forbearance
  Balance     Total     Balance     Total  
 
Up to 12 months
  $ 994       67 %   $ 2,059       71 %
13 to 24 months
    368       25       738       25  
More than 24 months
    118       8       123       4  
                                 
Total
  $ 1,480       100 %   $ 2,920       100 %
                                 
 
FFELP Loan Losses
 
FFELP Delinquencies and Forbearance
 
The tables below present our FFELP loan delinquency trends as of March 31, 2009 and 2008. Delinquencies have the potential to adversely impact earnings as they are an initial indication of the borrower’s potential to possibly default and as a result command a higher loan loss reserve than loans in current status. Delinquent loans also require increased servicing and collection efforts, resulting in higher operating costs.
 
                                 
    On-Balance Sheet FFELP
 
    Loan Delinquencies  
    March 31, 2009     March 31, 2008  
    Balance     %     Balance     %  
 
Loans in-school/grace/deferment(1)
  $ 44,679             $ 34,997          
Loans in forbearance(2)
    13,160               11,932          
Loans in repayment and percentage of each status:
                               
Loans current
    57,925       84.4 %     55,698       85.8 %
Loans delinquent 31-60 days(3)
    3,710       5.4       3,176       4.9  
Loans delinquent 61-90 days(3)
    2,017       3.0       1,643       2.5  
Loans delinquent greater than 90 days(3)
    4,963       7.2       4,366       6.8  
                                 
Total FFELP loans in repayment
    68,615       100 %     64,883       100 %
                                 
Total FFELP loans, gross
    126,454               111,812          
FFELP loan unamortized premium
    2,428               2,317          
                                 
Total FFELP loans
    128,882               114,129          
FFELP loan allowance for losses
    (152 )             (93 )        
                                 
FFELP loans, net
  $ 128,730             $ 114,036          
                                 
Percentage of FFELP loans in repayment
            54.3 %             58.0 %
                                 
Delinquencies as a percentage of FFELP loans in repayment
            15.6 %             14.2 %
                                 
FFELP loans in forbearance as a percentage of loans in repayment and forbearance
            16.1 %             15.5 %
                                 
 
 
(1) Loans for borrowers who may be attending school or engaging in other permitted educational activities and are not yet required to make payments on the loans, e.g., residency periods for medical students or a grace period for bar exam preparation, as well as, loans for borrowers who have requested extension of grace period during employment transition or who have temporarily ceased making full payments due to hardship or other factors.
 
(2) Loans for borrowers who have used their allowable deferment time or do not qualify for deferment, and need additional time to obtain employment or who have temporarily ceased making full payments due to hardship or other factors, consistent with the established loan program servicing policies and procedures.
 
(3) The period of delinquency is based on the number of days scheduled payments are contractually past due.
 


74


Table of Contents

                                 
    Off-Balance Sheet FFELP
 
    Loan Delinquencies  
    March 31, 2009     March 31, 2008  
    Balance     %     Balance     %  
 
Loans in-school/grace/deferment(1)
  $ 4,095             $ 4,966          
Loans in forbearance(2)
    2,916               3,173          
Loans in repayment and percentage of each status:
                               
Loans current
    12,216       83.4 %     13,475       81.4 %
Loans delinquent 31-60 days(3)
    815       5.6       889       5.4  
Loans delinquent 61-90 days(3)
    432       2.9       500       3.0  
Loans delinquent greater than 90 days(3)
    1,189       8.1       1,682       10.2  
                                 
Total FFELP loans in repayment
    14,652       100 %     16,546       100 %
                                 
Total FFELP loans, gross
    21,663               24,685          
FFELP loan unamortized premium
    554               591          
                                 
Total FFELP loans
    22,217               25,276          
FFELP loan allowance for losses
    (29 )             (28 )        
                                 
FFELP loans, net
  $ 22,188             $ 25,248          
                                 
Percentage of FFELP loans in repayment
            67.6 %             67.0 %
                                 
Delinquencies as a percentage of FFELP loans in repayment
            16.6 %             18.6 %
                                 
FFELP loans in forbearance as a percentage of loans in repayment and forbearance
            16.6 %             16.1 %
                                 
 
 
(1) Loans for borrowers who may be attending school or engaging in other permitted educational activities and are not yet required to make payments on the loans, e.g., residency periods for medical students or a grace period for bar exam preparation, as well as, loans for borrowers who have requested extension of grace period during employment transition or who have temporarily ceased making full payments due to hardship or other factors.
 
(2) Loans for borrowers who have used their allowable deferment time or do not qualify for deferment, and need additional time to obtain employment or who have temporarily ceased making full payments due to hardship or other factors, consistent with the established loan program servicing policies and procedures.
 
(3) The period of delinquency is based on the number of days scheduled payments are contractually past due.
 

75


Table of Contents

                                 
    Managed Basis FFELP
 
    Loan Delinquencies  
    March 31,
    March 31,
 
    2009     2008  
    Balance     %     Balance     %  
 
Loans in-school/grace/deferment(1)
  $ 48,774             $ 39,963          
Loans in forbearance(2)
    16,076               15,105          
Loans in repayment and percentage of each status:
                               
Loans current
    70,141       84.2 %     69,173       85.0 %
Loans delinquent 31-60 days(3)
    4,525       5.4       4,065       5.0  
Loans delinquent 61-90 days(3)
    2,449       3.0       2,143       2.6  
Loans delinquent greater than 90 days(3)
    6,152       7.4       6,048       7.4  
                                 
Total FFELP loans in repayment
    83,267       100 %     81,429       100 %
                                 
Total FFELP loans, gross
    148,117               136,497          
FFELP loan unamortized premium
    2,982               2,908          
                                 
Total FFELP loans
    151,099               139,405          
FFELP loan allowance for losses
    (181 )             (121 )        
                                 
FFELP loans, net
  $ 150,918             $ 139,284          
                                 
Percentage of FFELP loans in repayment
            56.2 %             59.7 %
                                 
Delinquencies as a percentage of FFELP loans in repayment
            15.8 %             15.0 %
                                 
FFELP loans in forbearance as a percentage of loans in repayment and forbearance
            16.2 %             15.7 %
                                 
 
 
(1) Loans for borrowers who may be attending school or engaging in other permitted educational activities and are not yet required to make payments on the loans, e.g., residency periods for medical students or a grace period for bar exam preparation, as well as, loans for borrowers who have requested extension of grace period during employment transition or who have temporarily ceased making full payments due to hardship or other factors.
 
(2) Loans for borrowers who have used their allowable deferment time or do not qualify for deferment, and need additional time to obtain employment or who have temporarily ceased making full payments due to hardship or other factors, consistent with the established loan program servicing policies and procedures.
 
(3) The period of delinquency is based on the number of days scheduled payments are contractually past due.

76


Table of Contents

 
Activity in the Allowance for FFELP Loan Losses
 
The provision for FFELP loan losses represents the periodic expense of maintaining an allowance sufficient to absorb incurred Risk Sharing losses in the portfolio of FFELP loans.
 
The following table summarizes changes in the allowance for FFELP loan losses for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                                                 
    Activity in Allowance for FFELP Loan Losses  
    On-Balance Sheet
    Off-Balance Sheet
    Managed Basis
 
    Three Months Ended     Three Months Ended     Three Months Ended  
    March 31,
    March 31,
    March 31,
    March 31,
    March 31,
    March 31,
 
    2009     2008     2009     2008     2009     2008  
 
Allowance at beginning of period
  $ 138     $ 89     $ 27     $ 29     $ 165     $ 118  
Provision for FFELP loan losses
    35       16       5       3       40       19  
Charge-offs
    (19 )     (11 )     (4 )     (5 )     (23 )     (16 )
Student loan sales and securitization activity
    (2 )     (1 )     1       1       (1 )      
                                                 
Allowance at end of period
  $ 152     $ 93     $ 29     $ 28     $ 181     $ 121  
                                                 
Charge-offs as a percentage of average loans in repayment (annualized)
    .11 %     .07 %     .12 %     .11 %     .11 %     .08 %
Charge-offs as a percentage of average loans in repayment and forbearance (annualized)
    .09 %     .06 %     .10 %     .10 %     .09 %     .07 %
Allowance as a percentage of the ending total loan balance
    .12 %     .08 %     .13 %     .11 %     .12 %     .09 %
Allowance as a percentage of ending loans in repayment
    .22 %     .14 %     .19 %     .16 %     .22 %     .15 %
Average coverage of charge-offs (annualized)
    1.99       2.16       1.61       1.38       1.92       1.92  
Ending total loans, gross
  $ 126,454     $ 111,812     $ 21,663     $ 24,685     $ 148,117     $ 136,497  
Average loans in repayment
  $ 69,596     $ 65,086     $ 14,924     $ 16,921     $ 84,520     $ 82,007  
Ending loans in repayment
  $ 68,615     $ 64,883     $ 14,652     $ 16,546     $ 83,267     $ 81,429  
 
Total Provisions for Loan Losses
 
The following tables summarize the total provisions for loan losses on both an on-balance sheet basis and a Managed Basis for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
Total on-balance sheet loan provisions
 
                 
    Three Months
 
    Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Private Education Loans
  $ 203     $ 119  
FFELP Loans
    35       16  
Mortgage and consumer loans
    12       2  
                 
Total on-balance sheet provisions for loan losses
  $ 250     $ 137  
                 


77


Table of Contents

Total Managed Basis loan provisions
 
                 
    Three Months
 
    Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Private Education Loans
  $ 297     $ 160  
FFELP Loans
    40       19  
Mortgage and consumer loans
    12       2  
                 
Total Managed Basis provisions for loan losses
  $ 349     $ 181  
                 
 
Provision expense for Private Education Loans was previously discussed above (see “Private Education Loan Losses — Activity in the Allowance for Private Education Loan Losses”).
 
Provision for FFELP loans has increased over the year-ago quarter as a result of an expected increase in FFELP loan charge-offs arising from the continued weakening of the U.S. economy.
 
Total Loan Charge-offs
 
The following tables summarize the total loan charge-offs on both an on-balance sheet basis and a Managed Basis for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
Total on-balance sheet loan charge-offs
 
                 
    Three Months
 
    Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Private Education Loans
  $ 139     $ 58  
FFELP Loans
    19       11  
Mortgage and consumer loans
    5       5  
                 
Total on-balance sheet loan charge-offs
  $ 163     $ 74  
                 
 
Total Managed loan charge-offs
 
                 
    Three Months
 
    Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Private Education Loans
  $ 202     $ 89  
FFELP Loans
    23       16  
Mortgage and consumer loans
    5       5  
                 
Total Managed loan charge-offs
  $ 230     $ 110  
                 
 
The increase in charge-offs on FFELP loans is the result of the impact of the weakening U.S. economy. See “Private Education Loan Losses — Activity in the Allowance for Private Education Loan Losses,” above, for a discussion of charge-offs related to our Private Education Loans.


78


Table of Contents

Student Loan Premiums as a Percentage of Principal
 
The following table presents student loan premiums paid as a percentage of the principal balance of student loans acquired for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                                 
    Three Months Ended March 31,  
    2009     2008  
    Volume     Rate     Volume     Rate  
 
Student loan premiums paid:
                               
Internal lending brands — FFELP
  $ 5,797       .90 %   $ 3,433       2.85 %
Internal lending brands — Private
    1,356             2,212       .03  
Lender Partners — FFELP
    1,308       1.50       2,228       3.15  
Lender Partners — Private
    44             87        
                                 
Total
    8,505       .85       7,960       2.12  
Other purchases(1)
    194       .65       207       .60  
                                 
Subtotal base purchases
    8,699       .84       8,167       2.08  
Consolidation originations
                541       2.24  
                                 
Total
  $ 8,699       .84 %   $ 8,708       2.09 %
                                 
 
 
(1) Primarily includes spot purchases, other commitment clients, and subsidiary acquisitions.
 
Premiums paid as a percentage of principal balance for both internal lending brands and lender partner volume can be impacted by Front-End Borrower Benefits where we pay the origination fee and/or federal guaranty fee on behalf of borrowers. Historically, this offered benefit had the impact of increasing the effective premium rate on the loan volume over time as this benefit was offered to a larger segment of our loan originations. During the first half of 2008, the Company suspended participation in the federal consolidation loan program and also discontinued subsidizing on behalf of borrowers the federally mandated Stafford loan origination fee for loans guaranteed after May 2, 2008. As a result, we expect and have seen our premiums decline on this volume in 2008 and 2009. Declines in lender partner premiums will lag those of internal lending brands since acquisitions of lender partner volume may relate to loans originated in prior periods when the Front-End Borrower Benefits were still being offered.
 
Included in “consolidation originations” is the 0.5 percent FFELP Consolidation Loan origination fee paid on the total balance of new FFELP Consolidation Loans made prior to October 1, 2007 (and 1.0 percent for FFELP Consolidation Loans made after October 1, 2007), including internally consolidated loans from our existing portfolio. The “consolidation originations” premium paid percentage is calculated on only consolidation volume that is incremental to our portfolio. This percentage is largely driven by the mix of internal consolidations. As previously discussed, the Company suspended participation in the federal consolidation loan program in April 2008.


79


Table of Contents

Student Loan Acquisitions
 
The following tables summarize the components of our student loan acquisition activity for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                         
    Three Months Ended
 
    March 31, 2009  
    FFELP     Private     Total  
 
Internal lending brands and Lender Partners
  $ 7,105     $ 1,400     $ 8,505  
Other commitment clients
    80             80  
Spot purchases
    114             114  
Consolidations from third parties
                 
Consolidations and clean-up calls of off-balance sheet securitized loans
    1,528       666       2,194  
Capitalized interest, premiums and discounts
    565       194       759  
                         
Total on-balance sheet student loan acquisitions
    9,392       2,260       11,652  
Consolidations and clean-up calls of off-balance sheet securitized loans
    (1,528 )     (666 )     (2,194 )
Capitalized interest, premiums and discounts — off-balance sheet securitized trusts
    89       117       206  
                         
Total Managed student loan acquisitions
  $ 7,953     $ 1,711     $ 9,664  
                         
 
                         
    Three Months Ended
 
    March 31, 2008  
    FFELP     Private     Total  
 
Internal lending brands and Lender Partners
  $ 5,661     $ 2,299     $ 7,960  
Other commitment clients
    185             185  
Spot purchases
    22             22  
Consolidations from third parties
    450       91       541  
Consolidations and clean-up calls of off-balance sheet securitized loans
    108       169       277  
Capitalized interest, premiums and discounts
    542       164       706  
                         
Total on-balance sheet student loan acquisitions
    6,968       2,723       9,691  
Consolidations and clean-up calls of off-balance sheet securitized loans
    (108 )     (169 )     (277 )
Capitalized interest, premiums and discounts — off-balance sheet securitized trusts
    98       157       255  
                         
Total Managed student loan acquisitions
  $ 6,958     $ 2,711     $ 9,669  
                         
 
Total On-Balance Sheet Assets — Lending Business Segment
 
The following table includes on-balance sheet asset information for our Lending business segment.
 
                 
    March 31,
    December 31,
 
    2009     2008  
 
FFELP Stafford and Other Student Loans, net
  $ 43,444     $ 44,025  
FFELP Stafford Loans Held-for-Sale
    14,400       8,451  
FFELP Consolidation Loans, net
    70,886       71,744  
Private Education Loans, net
    21,645       20,582  
Other loans, net
    684       729  
Investments(1)
    7,310       8,445  
Retained Interest in off-balance sheet securitized loans
    1,951       2,200  
Other(2)
    8,660       9,947  
                 
Total assets
  $ 168,980     $ 166,123  
                 
 
 
(1) Investments include cash and cash equivalents, short and long-term investments, restricted cash and investments, leveraged leases, and municipal bonds.
 
(2) Other assets include accrued interest receivable, goodwill and acquired intangible assets, and other non-interest earning assets.


80


Table of Contents

 
Loan Originations
 
The Company originates loans under its own brand names, which we refer to as internal lending brands, and also through Lender Partners under forward contracts to purchase loans at contractual prices.
 
Our FFELP internal brand originations were up sharply in the first quarter of 2009, increasing 61 percent from the year-ago quarter. Our FFELP lender partner originations declined 65 percent over the same period. A number of these Lender Partners, including some of our largest originators, have converted to third-party servicing arrangements in which we service loans on their behalf.
 
Consistent with our announcement in the first quarter of 2008 that we are tightening our private credit lending standards and ceasing non-traditional lending, Private Education Loan originations declined 39 percent from the year-ago period to $1.5 billion in the quarter ended March 31, 2009.
 
At March 31, 2009, the Company was committed to purchase $1.8 billion of loans originated by our Lender Partners ($1.0 billion of FFELP loans and $.8 billion of Private Education Loans). Approximately $.6 billion of these FFELP loans were originated prior to CCRAA. Approximately $.2 billion of these FFELP loans are eligible for ED’s Purchase and Participation Programs (see “LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES — ED Funding Programs”).
 
The following tables summarize our loan originations by type of loan and source.
 
                 
    Three Months
 
    Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Loan Originations — Internal lending brands
               
Stafford
  $ 4,925     $ 2,859  
PLUS
    597       546  
GradPLUS
    275       194  
                 
Total FFELP
    5,797       3,599  
Private Education Loans
    1,356       2,225  
                 
Total
  $ 7,153     $ 5,824  
                 
 
                 
    Three Months
 
    Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Loan Originations — Lender Partners
               
Stafford
  $ 772     $ 2,107  
PLUS
    51       272  
GradPLUS
    18       42  
                 
Total FFELP
    841       2,421  
Private Education Loans
    160       253  
                 
Total
  $ 1,001     $ 2,674  
                 


81


Table of Contents

Student Loan Activity
 
The following tables summarize the activity in our on-balance sheet, off-balance sheet and Managed portfolios of FFELP loans and Private Education Loans and highlight the effects of Consolidation Loan activity on our FFELP loan portfolios.
 
                                         
    On-Balance Sheet
 
    Three Months Ended March 31, 2009  
                      Total
       
    FFELP
    FFELP
          Private
    Total On-
 
    Stafford and
    Consolidation
    Total
    Education
    Balance Sheet
 
    Other(1)     Loans     FFELP     Loans     Portfolio  
 
Beginning balance
  $ 52,476     $ 71,744     $ 124,220     $ 20,582     $ 144,802  
Net consolidations:
                                       
Incremental consolidations from third parties
                             
Consolidations to third parties
    (243 )     (121 )     (364 )     (4 )     (368 )
                                         
Net consolidations
    (243 )     (121 )     (364 )     (4 )     (368 )
Acquisitions
    7,590       274       7,864       1,594       9,458  
                                         
Net acquisitions
    7,347       153       7,500       1,590       9,090  
                                         
Internal consolidations(2)
                             
Off-balance sheet securitizations
                             
Repayments/claims/resales/other
    (1,979 )     (1,012 )     (2,991 )     (527 )     (3,518 )
                                         
Ending balance
  $ 57,844     $ 70,885     $ 128,729     $ 21,645     $ 150,374  
                                         
 
                                         
    Off-Balance Sheet
 
    Three Months Ended March 31, 2009  
                      Total
       
    FFELP
    FFELP
          Private
    Total Off-
 
    Stafford and
    Consolidation
    Total
    Education
    Balance Sheet
 
    Other(1)     Loans     FFELP     Loans     Portfolio  
 
Beginning balance
  $ 7,143     $ 15,531     $ 22,674     $ 12,917     $ 35,591  
Net consolidations:
                                       
Incremental consolidations from third parties
                             
Consolidations to third parties
    (110 )     (26 )     (136 )     (3 )     (139 )
                                         
Net consolidations
    (110 )     (26 )     (136 )     (3 )     (139 )
Acquisitions
    41       48       89       117       206  
                                         
Net acquisitions
    (69 )     22       (47 )     114       67  
                                         
Internal consolidations(2)
                             
Off-balance sheet securitizations
                             
Repayments/claims/resales/other
    (228 )     (210 )     (438 )     (259 )     (697 )
                                         
Ending balance
  $ 6,846     $ 15,343     $ 22,189     $ 12,772     $ 34,961  
                                         
 
                                         
    Managed Portfolio
 
    Three Months Ended March 31, 2009  
                      Total
       
    FFELP
    FFELP
          Private
    Total
 
    Stafford and
    Consolidation
    Total
    Education
    Managed Basis
 
    Other(1)     Loans     FFELP     Loans     Portfolio  
 
Beginning balance
  $ 59,619     $ 87,275     $ 146,894     $ 33,499     $ 180,393  
Net consolidations:
                                       
Incremental consolidations from third parties
                             
Consolidations to third parties
    (353 )     (147 )     (500 )     (7 )     (507 )
                                         
Net consolidations
    (353 )     (147 )     (500 )     (7 )     (507 )
Acquisitions
    7,631       322       7,953       1,711       9,664  
                                         
Net acquisitions
    7,278       175       7,453       1,704       9,157  
                                         
Internal consolidations(2)
                             
Off-balance sheet securitizations
                             
Repayments/claims/resales/other
    (2,207 )     (1,222 )     (3,429 )     (786 )     (4,215 )
                                         
Ending balance(3)
  $ 64,690     $ 86,228     $ 150,918     $ 34,417     $ 185,335  
                                         
Total Managed Acquisitions(4)
  $ 7,631     $ 322     $ 7,953     $ 1,711     $ 9,664  
                                         
 
 
(1) FFELP category is primarily Stafford loans and also includes PLUS and HEAL loans.
 
(2) Represents loans that we either own on-balance sheet or loans that we consolidated from our off-balance sheet securitization trusts.
 
(3) As of March 31, 2009, the ending balance includes $19.8 billion of FFELP Stafford and Other Loans and $2.6 billion of FFELP Consolidation Loans disbursed on or after October 1, 2007, which are impacted by CCRAA legislation.
 
(4) The Total Managed Acquisitions line includes incremental consolidations from third parties and acquisitions.


82


Table of Contents

 
                                         
    On-Balance Sheet
 
    Three Months Ended March 31, 2008  
                      Total
       
    FFELP
    FFELP
          Private
    Total On-
 
    Stafford and
    Consolidation
    Total
    Education
    Balance Sheet
 
    Other(1)     Loans     FFELP     Loans     Portfolio  
 
Beginning balance
  $ 35,726     $ 73,609     $ 109,335     $ 14,818     $ 124,153  
Net consolidations:
                                       
Incremental consolidations from third parties
          450       450       91       541  
Consolidations to third parties
    (241 )     (71 )     (312 )     (16 )     (328 )
                                         
Net consolidations
    (241 )     379       138       75       213  
Acquisitions
    6,058       352       6,410       2,463       8,873  
                                         
Net acquisitions
    5,817       731       6,548       2,538       9,086  
                                         
Internal consolidations(2)
    (377 )     493       116       158       274  
Off-balance sheet securitizations
                             
Repayments/claims/resales/other
    (998 )     (965 )     (1,963 )     (537 )     (2,500 )
                                         
Ending balance
  $ 40,168     $ 73,868     $ 114,036     $ 16,977     $ 131,013  
                                         
 
                                         
    Off-Balance Sheet
 
    Three Months Ended March 31, 2008  
                      Total
       
    FFELP
    FFELP
          Private
    Total Off-
 
    Stafford and
    Consolidation
    Total
    Education
    Balance Sheet
 
    Other(1)     Loans     FFELP     Loans     Portfolio  
 
Beginning balance
  $ 9,472     $ 16,441     $ 25,913     $ 13,510     $ 39,423  
Net consolidations:
                                       
Incremental consolidations from third parties
                             
Consolidations to third parties
    (52 )     (14 )     (66 )     (31 )     (97 )
                                         
Net consolidations
    (52 )     (14 )     (66 )     (31 )     (97 )
Acquisitions
    49       49       98       157       255  
                                         
Net acquisitions
    (3 )     35       32       126       158  
                                         
Internal consolidations(2)
    (82 )     (34 )     (116 )     (158 )     (274 )
Off-balance sheet securitizations
                             
Repayments/claims/resales/other
    (376 )     (205 )     (581 )     (264 )     (845 )
                                         
Ending balance
  $ 9,011     $ 16,237     $ 25,248     $ 13,214     $ 38,462  
                                         
 
                                         
    Managed Portfolio
 
    Three Months Ended March 31, 2008  
                      Total
       
    FFELP
    FFELP
          Private
    Total
 
    Stafford and
    Consolidation
    Total
    Education
    Managed Basis
 
    Other(1)     Loans     FFELP     Loans     Portfolio  
 
Beginning balance
  $ 45,198     $ 90,050     $ 135,248     $ 28,328     $ 163,576  
Net consolidations:
                                       
Incremental consolidations from third parties
          450       450       91       541  
Consolidations to third parties
    (293 )     (85 )     (378 )     (47 )     (425 )
                                         
Net consolidations
    (293 )     365       72       44       116  
Acquisitions
    6,107       401       6,508       2,620       9,128  
                                         
Net acquisitions
    5,814       766       6,580       2,664       9,244  
                                         
Internal consolidations(2)
    (459 )     459                    
Off-balance sheet securitizations
                             
Repayments/claims/resales/other
    (1,374 )     (1,170 )     (2,544 )     (801 )     (3,345 )
                                         
Ending balance(3)
  $ 49,179     $ 90,105     $ 139,284     $ 30,191     $ 169,475  
                                         
Total Managed Acquisitions(4)
  $ 6,107     $ 851     $ 6,958     $ 2,711     $ 9,669  
                                         
 
 
(1) FFELP category is primarily Stafford loans and also includes PLUS and HEAL loans.
 
(2) Represents loans that we either own on-balance sheet or loans that we consolidated from our off-balance sheet securitization trusts.
 
(3) As of March 31, 2008, the ending balance includes $3.5 billion of FFELP Stafford and Other Loans and $2.6 billion of FFELP Consolidation Loans disbursed on or after October 1, 2007, which are impacted by CCRAA legislation.
 
(4) The Total Managed Acquisitions line includes incremental consolidations from third parties and acquisitions.


83


Table of Contents

 
Other Income — Lending Business Segment
 
The following table summarizes the components of “Core Earnings” other income, net, for our Lending business segment for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                 
    Three Months
 
    Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Late fees and forbearance fees
  $ 37     $ 37  
Gains on debt repurchases
    64        
Gains (losses) on sales of loans and securities, net
          1  
Other
    1       6  
                 
Total other income, net
  $ 102     $ 44  
                 
 
The increase in other income is due to the Company’s repurchase of unsecured debt during the first quarter of 2009. The Company began to repurchase its unsecured debt in the second quarter of 2008.
 
Operating Expense — Lending Business Segment
 
The following table summarizes the components of operating expenses for our Lending business segment for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                 
    Three Months
 
    Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Sales and originations
  $ 49     $ 74  
Servicing
    56       64  
Corporate overhead
    26       26  
                 
Total operating expenses
  $ 131     $ 164  
                 
 
Operating expenses for our Lending business segment include costs incurred to service our Managed student loan portfolio and acquire student loans, as well as other general and administrative expenses. The decrease in operating expenses versus the year-ago period was primarily due to the Company’s continued cost reduction efforts. As a result, operating expenses were 29 basis points and 39 basis points of average managed student loans in the first quarter of 2009 versus the first quarter of 2008.


84


Table of Contents

ASSET PERFORMANCE GROUP (“APG”) BUSINESS SEGMENT
 
The following table includes the “Core Earnings” results of operations for our APG business segment.
 
                                 
    Three Months Ended March 31, 2009  
    Purchased
    Purchased
             
    Paper-
    Paper-
             
    Non-
    Mortgage/
    Contingency
       
    Mortgage     Properties     & Other     Total APG  
 
Contingency fee income
  $ 2     $     $ 73     $ 75  
Collections revenue (loss)
    43       (65 )           (22 )
                                 
Total income (loss)
    45       (65 )     73       53  
Restructuring expenses
    1       1             2  
Operating expenses
    39       6       43       88  
                                 
Total expenses
    40       7       43       90  
Net interest expense
    3       1       2       6  
                                 
Income (loss) before income tax expense (benefit) and noncontrolling interest
    2       (73 )     28       (43 )
Income tax expense (benefit)
    1       (27 )     10       (16 )
                                 
Income (loss) before noncontrolling interest
    1       (46 )     18       (27 )
Noncontrolling interest
                       
                                 
“Core Earnings” net income (loss)
  $ 1     $ (46 )   $ 18     $ (27 )
                                 
 
                                 
    Three Months Ended March 31, 2008  
    Purchased
    Purchased
             
    Paper-
    Paper-
             
    Non-
    Mortgage/
    Contingency
       
    Mortgage     Properties     & Other     Total APG  
 
Contingency fee income
  $ 3     $     $ 82     $ 85  
Collections revenue
    51       5             56  
                                 
Total income
    54       5       82       141  
Restructuring expenses
    1                   1  
Operating expenses
    51       10       44       105  
                                 
Total expenses
    52       10       44       106  
Net interest expense
    3       1       3       7  
                                 
Income (loss) before income tax expense (benefit) and noncontrolling interest
    (1 )     (6 )     35       28  
Income tax expense
    (1 )     (2 )     13       10  
                                 
Income (loss) before noncontrolling interest
          (4 )     22       18  
Noncontrolling interest
                       
                                 
“Core Earnings” net income
  $     $ (4 )   $ 22     $ 18  
                                 
 
The Company has concluded that its APG purchased paper businesses no longer produce a strategic fit. The Company sold its international Purchased Paper — Non-Mortgage business in the first quarter of 2009. The Company recorded a $56 million loss on this business in the third quarter of 2008, and adjusted this loss amount to $51 million in the fourth quarter of 2008 based on the final sales price.
 
The Company continues to wind down the domestic side of its Purchased Paper — Non-Mortgage and Purchased Paper — Mortgage/Properties businesses. The Company will continue to consider opportunities to sell these businesses at acceptable prices in the future.


85


Table of Contents

The Company’s domestic Purchased Paper — Non-Mortgage business has certain forward purchase obligations under which the Company is committed to buy purchased paper in April 2009 at a purchase price of approximately $1 million. The Company will not buy any additional purchased paper in excess of these obligations. The Company recognized $3 million and $9 million of impairment in the first quarter of 2009 and 2008, respectively. The total impairment for the year ended December 31, 2008 was $55 million.
 
The Company’s Purchased Paper — Mortgage/Properties business has not purchased any new mortgage/property assets since March 2008 and will work-out and liquidate its portfolio as quickly and economically as possible. In the first quarter of 2009, real estate values continued to decline as a result of the weakening U.S. economy and expected future resolution time-frames were extended, resulting in the impairment of $74 million in the first quarter of 2009 compared to $14 million in the first quarter of 2008. The total impairment for the year ended December 31, 2008 was $262 million.
 
Purchased Paper — Non-Mortgage
 
                 
    Three Months
 
    Ended
 
    March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Face value of purchases for the period
  $ 388     $ 1,529  
Purchase price for the period
    29       143  
Purchase price as a percentage of face value purchased
    7.5 %     9.4 %
Gross Cash Collections (“GCC”)
  $ 156     $ 159  
Collections revenue (loss)
    43       52  
Collections revenue (loss) as a percentage of GCC
    27 %     32 %
Carrying value of purchased paper
  $ 459     $ 623  
 
Purchased Paper — Mortgage/Properties
 
                 
    Three Months
 
    Ended
 
    December 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Face value of purchases for the period
  $     $ 39  
Collections revenue (loss), net of impairments
    (65 )     5  
Collateral value of purchases
          29  
Purchase price for the period
          19  
Purchase price as a percentage of collateral fair value
    %     66 %
Carrying value of purchased paper
  $ 533     $ 1,130  
Carrying value of purchased paper as a percentage of collateral fair value
    67 %     77 %
 
The carrying value of purchased paper (the basis we carry on our balance sheet) as a percentage of collateral fair value has decreased in the first quarter of 2009 as a result of the significant impairment recognized this quarter.


86


Table of Contents

Contingency Inventory
 
The following table presents the outstanding inventory of receivables that are currently being serviced through our APG business segment.
 
                 
    March 31,
    December 31,
 
    2009     2008  
 
Contingency:
               
Student loans
  $ 9,234     $ 8,498  
Other
    1,725       1,752  
                 
Total
  $ 10,959     $ 10,250  
                 
 
Operating Expenses — APG Business Segment
 
For the quarters ended March 31, 2009 and 2008, operating expenses for the APG business segment totaled $88 million and $105 million, respectively. The decrease in operating expense from the year-ago quarter was primarily due to the Company’s continued cost reduction efforts
 
At March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, the APG business segment had total assets of $1.7 billion and $2.1 billion, respectively.
 
CORPORATE AND OTHER BUSINESS SEGMENT
 
The following table includes “Core Earnings” results of operations for our Corporate and Other business segment.
 
                         
                % Increase
 
    Three Months
    (Decrease)  
    Ended March 31,     2009 vs.
 
    2009     2008     2008  
 
Net interest income after provisions for loan losses
  $ 1     $ 1       %
Guarantor servicing fees
    34       35       (3 )
Loan servicing fees
    10       6       67  
Upromise
    25       26       (4 )
Other
    14       19       (26 )
                         
Total other income
    83       86       (3 )
Restructuring expenses
    2       5       (60 )
Operating expenses
    72       70       3  
                         
Total expenses
    74       75       (1 )
                         
Income before income tax expense
    10       12       (17 )
Income tax expense
    3       5       (40 )
                         
“Core Earnings” net income
  $ 7     $ 7       %
                         
 
United Student Aid Funds, Inc. (“USA Funds”), the nation’s largest guarantee agency, accounted for 88 percent and 88 percent, respectively, of guarantor servicing fees and 5 percent and 16 percent, respectively, of revenues associated with other products and services for the quarters ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.


87


Table of Contents

Operating Expenses — Corporate and Other Business Segment
 
The following table summarizes the components of operating expenses for our Corporate and Other business segment for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                 
    Three Months
 
    Ended March 31,  
    2009     2008  
 
Operating expenses
  $ 23     $ 23  
Upromise
    22       24  
General and administrative expenses
    27       23  
                 
Total operating expenses
  $ 72     $ 70  
                 
 
Operating expenses for our Corporate and Other business segment include direct costs incurred to service loans for unrelated third parties, perform guarantor servicing on behalf of guarantor agencies, and operate our Upromise subsidiary, as well as information technology expenses related to these functions. Operating expenses also include unallocated corporate overhead expenses for centralized headquarters functions.
 
At March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, the Corporate and Other business segment had total assets of $824 million and $685 million, respectively.
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
 
The following “LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES” discussion concentrates on our Lending business segment. Our APG contingency collections and Corporate and Other business segments are not capital intensive businesses and as such, a minimal amount of debt capital is allocated to these segments.
 
Historically, we funded new loan originations with a combination of unsecured debt and student loan asset-backed securities. Following the Proposed Merger announcement in April 2007, we temporarily suspended issuance of unsecured debt and began funding loan originations primarily through the issuance of student loan asset-backed securities and secured student loan financing facilities. In June 2008, the Company re-entered the corporate bond market with a $2.5 billion issue of 10-year senior unsecured notes. In August 2008, we began funding new FFELP Stafford and PLUS student loan originations for AY 2008-2009 pursuant to ED’s Loan Participation Program, as described below. During the fourth quarter of 2008, the Company began retaining its Private Education Loan originations in our banking subsidiary, Sallie Mae Bank, and funding these assets with term bank deposits. In the near term, we expect to continue to use ED’s Purchase and Participation Programs to fund future FFELP Stafford and PLUS loan originations and to use deposits to fund Private Education Loan originations. We plan to use term asset-backed securities, asset-backed financing facilities, cash flow provided by earnings and repayment of principal on our unencumbered student loan assets, as well as other sources, to refinance maturing debt and provide cash for operations and other needs.
 
ED Funding Programs
 
In August 2008, ED implemented the Loan Purchase Commitment Program (“Purchase Program”) and the Loan Participation Program (“Participation Program”) pursuant to ECASLA. Under the Purchase Program, ED purchases eligible FFELP loans at a price equal to the sum of (i) par value, (ii) accrued interest, (iii) the one-percent origination fee paid to ED, and (iv) a fixed amount of $75 per loan. Under the Participation Program, ED provides interim short-term liquidity to FFELP lenders by purchasing participation interests in pools of FFELP loans. FFELP lenders are charged at a rate of commercial paper plus 0.50 percent on the principal amount of participation interests outstanding. Loans funded under the Participation Program must be either refinanced by the lender or sold to ED pursuant to the Purchase Program prior to its expiration on September 30, 2009. Given the state of the credit markets, we currently expect to sell all of the loans we fund under the Participation Program to ED on or before the program’s expiration date. Loans eligible for the Participation or Purchase Programs were originally limited to FFELP Stafford or PLUS, first disbursed between May 1, 2008 and July 1, 2009, with no ongoing borrower benefits, other than permitted rate


88


Table of Contents

reductions of 0.25 percent for automatic payment processing. On October 7, 2008, legislation was enacted extending ED’s authority to address FFELP Stafford and PLUS loans made for AY’s 2009-2010, and allowing for the extension of ED’s Purchase and Participation Programs from September 30, 2009 to September 30, 2010. On November 8, 2008, ED formally announced new purchase and participation programs which cover eligible loans originated for the AY 2009-2010. On January 15, 2009, ED announced that the terms of the programs for AY 2009-2010 will replicate in all material respects the terms of the programs for AY 2008-2009.
 
On August 14, 2008, the Company received its initial advance under the Participation Program. As of March 31, 2009, the Company had $13.5 billion of advances outstanding under the Participation Program.
 
Also pursuant to ECASLA, on January 15, 2009, ED published summary terms under which it will purchase eligible FFELP Stafford and PLUS loans from a conduit vehicle established to provide funding for eligible student lenders (the “ED Conduit Program”). Loans eligible for the ED Conduit Program must be first disbursed on or after October 1, 2003, but not later than June 30, 2009, and fully disbursed before June 30, 2009, and meet certain other requirements including with respect to borrower benefits. Funding for the ED Conduit Program will be provided by the capital markets at a cost based on market rates. The ED Conduit Program will have a term of five years. Approximately $16.0 billion of our Stafford and PLUS loans (excluding loans currently in the Participation Program) were eligible for funding under the ED Conduit Program as of March 31, 2009. We expect to utilize the ED Conduit Program to fund a significant percentage of these assets over time. The initial funding under the ED Conduit Program is expected to occur in the second quarter of 2009.
 
Additional Funding Sources for General Corporate Purposes
 
The Company has encountered many challenges to its business model over the course of the last several years. In order to continue to meet our mission of providing access to higher education we have worked with Congress, ED and the Treasury Department to find solutions to those challenges that have been created by market conditions.
 
In addition to funding FFELP loans through ED’s Participation and Purchase Programs, the Company employs other financing sources for general corporate purposes, which includes originating Private Education Loans and repayments of unsecured debt obligations.
 
Secured borrowings, including securitizations, asset-backed commercial paper (“ABCP”) borrowings and indentured trusts, comprised 80 percent of our Managed debt outstanding at March 31, 2009 versus 75 percent at March 31, 2008.
 
Sallie Mae Bank
 
During the fourth quarter of 2008, Sallie Mae Bank, our Utah banking subsidiary, began expanding its deposit base to fund new Private Education Loan originations. Sallie Mae Bank raises deposits primarily through intermediaries in the retail brokered CD market. In the first quarter of 2009, Sallie Mae Bank raised $1.2 billion of term bank deposits with a weighted average life of 3.2 years and a weighted average fixed cost of approximately 3.24 percent. As of March 31, 2009, total term bank deposits were $3.3 billion. We expect Sallie Mae Bank to fund newly originated Private Education Loans by continuing to raise term bank deposits. As of March 31, 2009, $3.3 billion of Private Education Loans were held at the Sallie Mae Bank. We ultimately expect to raise long-term financing, through Private Education Loan securitizations or otherwise, to fund these loans.
 
ABS Transactions
 
On January 6, 2009, we closed a $1.5 billion 12.5 year asset-backed securities based facility. This facility will be used to provide up to $1.5 billion term financing for Private Education Loans. The fully utilized cost of financing obtained under this facility is expected to be LIBOR plus 5.75 percent. In connection with this facility, we completed one Private Education Loan term ABS transaction totaling $1.5 billion in the


89


Table of Contents

first quarter of 2009. The net funding received under the asset-backed securities based facility for this issuance was $1.1 billion at the expected cost of LIBOR plus 5.75 percent.
 
In April 2009, we completed three FFELP term ABS transactions totaling $5.1 billion. The FFELP transactions were both public and private transactions composed primarily of FFELP consolidation loans which were not eligible for the ED Conduit Program or TALF. Although we have demonstrated our access to the ABS market in 2009 and we expect ABS financing to remain our primary source of funding over the long term, we expect our transaction volumes to be more limited and pricing less favorable than prior to the credit market dislocation that began in the summer of 2007, with significantly reduced opportunities to place subordinated tranches of ABS with investors. At present, we are unable to predict when market conditions will allow for more regular, reliable and cost-effective access to the term ABS market.
 
Asset-Backed Financing Facilities
 
During the first quarter of 2008, the Company entered into three new asset-backed financing facilities (the “2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities”): (i) a $26.0 billion FFELP student loan ABCP conduit facility (the “2008 FFELP ABCP Facility”); (ii) a $5.9 billion Private Education Loan ABCP conduit facility (the “2008 Private Education Loan ABCP Facility”) (collectively, the “2008 ABCP Facilities”); and (iii) a $2.0 billion secured FFELP loan facility (the “2008 Asset-Backed Loan Facility”). The initial term of the 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities was 364 days. The underlying cost of borrowing under the 2008 ABCP Facilities is approximately LIBOR plus 0.68 percent for the FFELP loan facilities and LIBOR plus 1.55 percent for the Private Education Loan facility, excluding up-front and unused commitment fees. All-in pricing on the 2008 ABCP Facilities varies based on usage. For the full year 2008, the combined, all-in cost of borrowings related to the 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities, including amortized up-front fees and unused commitment fees, was three-month LIBOR plus 2.47 percent. The primary use of the 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities was to refinance comparable ABCP facilities incurred in connection with the Proposed Merger, with the expectation that outstanding balances under the 2008 Asset- Backed Financing Facilities would be reduced through securitization of the underlying student loan collateral in the term ABS market. Funding under the 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities is subject to usual and customary conditions.
 
In the third quarter of 2008, the Company reduced the commitments under its Private Education Loan ABCP conduit facility by approximately $2.2 billion to $3.7 billion and the commitments under its FFELP ABCP Facilities by $4.1 billion to $21.9 billion. There were no changes to interest rates, maturity or other terms of the facilities made in connection with the reductions. The Company reduced these commitments after an analysis of its ongoing liquidity needs and following its acceptance and funding under ED’s Participation and Purchase Programs.
 
The maximum amount the Company may borrow under the 2008 ABCP Facilities is limited based on certain factors, including market conditions and the fair value of student loans in the facility. As of March 31, 2009, the maximum borrowing amount was approximately $21.1 billion under the FFELP ABCP Facilities and $2.7 billion under the Private Education Loan ABCP Facility. The 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities are subject to termination under certain circumstances, including the Company’s failure to comply with the principal financial covenants in its unsecured revolving credit facilities.
 
Borrowings under the 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities are nonrecourse to the Company. As of March 31, 2009, the Company had $25.5 billion outstanding in connection with the 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities. The book basis of the assets securing these facilities as of March 31, 2009 was $31.9 billion. $3.9 billion of this overcollateralization related to the 2008 FFELP ABCP Facility and 2008 Asset-Backed Loan Facility, and $2.5 billion related to the 2008 Private Education Loan ABCP Facility.
 
On February 2, 2009, the Company extended the maturity date of the 2008 ABCP Facilities from February 28, 2009 to April 28, 2009 for a $61 million upfront fee. The other terms of the facilities remain materially unchanged.


90


Table of Contents

On February 27, 2009, the Company extended the maturity date of the 2008 Asset-Backed Loan Facility from February 28, 2009 to April 28, 2009 for a $4 million upfront fee. The other terms of this facility remain materially unchanged.
 
On April 24, 2009, the Company extended the maturity of $21.8 billion of the 2008 FFELP ABCP Facility for one year. The 2008 FFELP ABCP Facility is now scheduled to mature on April, 23, 2010. The Company also extended its 2008 Asset-Backed Loan Facility in the amount of $1.5 billion. The 2008 Asset-Backed Loan Facility is now scheduled to mature on June 26, 2009. A total of $86 million in fees were paid related to these extensions. The 2008 Private Education Loan ABCP Facility was paid off and terminated on April 24, 2009. The stated borrowing rate of the 2008 FFELP ABCP Facility is the applicable funding rate plus 130 basis points (not including the upfront fees). The applicable funding rate will generally be the commercial paper rate. The $21.8 billion extended facility contains two contractual reductions which will require the facility limit to be reduced to $15.2 billion on June 30, 2009 and subsequently to $10.9 billion on September 30, 2009. Failure to meet these specified reductions will result in an increase in the spread to the applicable funding rate to 300 basis points. The Company expects to materially reduce the size of the 2008 FFELP ABCP Facility prior to maturity through a combination of asset securitizations and through the utilization of the ED Conduit Program. If the Company does not negotiate an extension or pay off all outstanding amounts of the 2008 FFELP ABCP Facility at maturity, the facility will extend by 90 days with the interest rate generally increasing to LIBOR plus 250 basis points to 550 basis points over the 90 day period. The other terms of the facilities remained materially unchanged.
 
Term Asset-Backed Securities Loan Facility (“TALF”)
 
On February 6, 2009, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York published proposed terms for a program designed to facilitate renewed issuance of consumer and small business asset-backed securities (“ABS”) at lower interest rate spreads. As proposed, the U.S. Government’s Term Asset-Backed Securities Loan Facility (“TALF”) will provide investors with funding of up to three years for eligible ABS rated by two or more rating agencies in the highest investment-grade rating category. Eligible ABS include ‘AAA’ rated student loan ABS backed by FFELP and private student loans first disbursed since May 1, 2007. As of March 31, 2009, we had approximately $17.4 billion of student loans eligible to serve as collateral for ABS funded under TALF; this amount does not include loans eligible for ECASLA financing programs. The Federal Reserve Bank launched the TALF program on March 3, 2009. While we expect TALF to improve our access to and reduce our cost of ABS funding, we are unable to predict, at this time, the impact TALF will ultimately have on our funding activities.
 
On May 5, 2009, we priced a $2.6 billion Private Education Loan securitization for settlement on May 12, 2009. The issue bears a coupon of 1 month LIBOR plus 6.0 percent and is callable at the issuer’s option at 93 percent of the face amount of the ABS issued between November 15, 2011 and April 15, 2012. If the issue is called on November 15, 2011, we expect the effective cost of the bond financing will be approximately 1 month LIBOR plus 3.7 percent.
 
Auction Rate Securities
 
At March 31, 2009, we had $3.3 billion of taxable and $1.4 billion of tax-exempt auction rate securities outstanding in securitizations and indentured trusts, respectively, on a Managed Basis. Since February 2008, an imbalance of supply and demand in the auction rate securities market as a whole led to failures of the auctions pursuant to which certain of our auction rate securities’ interest rates are set. As a result, all of the Company’s auction rate securities as of March 31, 2009 bore interest at the maximum rate allowable under their terms. The maximum allowable interest rate on our $3.3 billion of taxable auction rate securities is generally LIBOR plus 1.50 percent. The maximum allowable interest rate on many of the Company’s $1.4 billion of tax-exempt auction rate securities is a formula driven rate, which produced various maximum rates up to 3.15 percent during the first quarter of 2009.


91


Table of Contents

Reset Rate Notes
 
Certain tranches of our term ABS are reset rate notes. Reset rate notes are subject to periodic remarketing, at which time the interest rates on the reset rate notes are reset. The Company also has the option to repurchase the reset rate note prior to a failed remarketing and hold it as an investment until such time it can be remarketed. In the event a reset rate note cannot be remarketed on its remarketing date, and is not repurchased, the interest rate generally steps up to and remains at LIBOR plus 0.75 percent, until such time as the bonds are successfully remarketed or repurchased. The Company’s repurchase of a reset rate note requires additional funding, the availability and pricing of which may be less favorable to the Company than it was at the time the reset rate note was originally issued. Unlike the repurchase of a reset rate note, the occurrence of a failed remarketing does not require additional funding. As a result of the ongoing dislocation in the capital markets, at March 31, 2009, $903 million of our reset rate notes bore interest at LIBOR plus 0.75 percent due to a failed remarketing. Until capital markets conditions improve, it is possible additional reset rate notes will experience failed remarketings. As of March 31, 2009, on a Managed Basis, the Company had $3.7 billion and $2.5 billion of reset rate notes due to be remarketed in 2009 and 2010, respectively, and an additional $8.5 billion to be remarketed thereafter.
 
Primary Sources of Liquidity and Available Capacity
 
We expect to fund our ongoing liquidity needs, including the origination of new loans and the repayment of $3.8 billion of the remaining senior unsecured notes maturing in 2009, through our current cash and investment portfolio, cash flow provided by earnings and repayment of principal on unencumbered student loan assets, the liquidity facilities made available by ED, TALF, the 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities, the issuance of term ABS, term bank deposits, and, to a lesser extent, if possible, unsecured debt and other sources.
 
To supplement our funding sources, we maintained an additional $5.2 billion in unsecured revolving credit facilities as of March 31, 2009. These facilities include a $1.4 billion revolving credit facility maturing in October 2009; $1.9 billion maturing in October 2010; and $1.9 billion maturing in October 2011. They do not include a $0.3 billion commitment from a subsidiary of Lehman Brothers Holding, Inc. On April 24, 2009, the $1.4 billion revolving credit facility maturing in October 2009 was retired and the $1.9 billion revolving credit facility maturing in October 2011 was reduced to $1.6 billion in conjunction with the extension of the 2008 ABCP Facilities. The principal financial covenants in the unsecured revolving credit facilities require the Company to maintain tangible net worth of at least $1.38 billion at all times. Consolidated tangible net worth as calculated for purposes of this covenant was $3.2 billion as of March 31, 2009. The covenants also require the Company to meet either a minimum interest coverage ratio or a minimum net adjusted revenue test based on the four preceding quarters’ adjusted “Core Earnings” financial performance. The Company was compliant with the minimum net adjusted revenue test as of the quarter ended March 31, 2009. In the past, we have not relied upon our unsecured revolving credit facilities as a primary source of liquidity. Although we have never borrowed under these facilities, they are available to be drawn upon for general corporate purposes.


92


Table of Contents

The following table details our primary sources of primary and stand-by liquidity and the available capacity at March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008.
 
                 
    March 31, 2009
    December 31, 2008
 
    Available Capacity     Available Capacity  
 
Sources of primary liquidity available for new FFELP Stafford and PLUS loan originations:
               
ED Purchase and Participation Programs(1)
    Unlimited(1 )     Unlimited(1 )
Sources of primary liquidity for general corporate purposes:
               
Unrestricted cash and liquid investments:
               
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 3,064     $ 4,070  
U.S. Treasury-backed securities
           
Commercial paper and asset-backed commercial paper
    410       801  
Certificates of deposit
           
Other(2)
    184       133  
                 
Total unrestricted cash and liquid investments(3)(4)(5)
    3,658       5,004  
Unused commercial paper and bank lines of credit(6)(7)
    5,192       5,192  
2008 FFELP ABCP Facilities
    122       807  
2008 Private Education Loan ABCP Facility
    5       332  
                 
Total sources of primary liquidity for general corporate purposes
    8,977       11,335  
Sources of stand-by liquidity:
               
Unencumbered FFELP loans(8)
    5,001       5,222  
                 
Total sources of primary and stand-by liquidity for general corporate purposes(9)
  $ 13,978     $ 16,557  
                 
 
 
  (1)  The ED Purchase and Participation Programs provide unlimited funding for eligible FFELP Stafford and PLUS loans made by the Company for the academic years 2008-2009 and 2009-2010. See “ED Funding Programs” discussed earlier in this section.
 
  (2)  At March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, includes $64 million and $97 million, respectively, due from The Reserve Primary Fund (see “Counterparty Exposure” below).
 
  (3)  At March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, excludes $18 million and $26 million, respectively, of investments pledged as collateral related to certain derivative positions and $73 million and $82 million, respectively, of other non-liquid investments, classified as cash and investments on our balance sheet in accordance with GAAP.
 
  (4)  At March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, includes $911 million and $1.6 billion, respectively, of cash collateral pledged by derivative counterparties and held by the Company in unrestricted cash.
 
  (5)  At March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, includes $802 million and $1.1 billion, respectively, of cash and liquid investments at Sallie Mae Bank, for which Sallie Mae Bank is not authorized to dividend to the Company without FDIC approval. This cash will be used primarily to originate Private Education Loans.
 
  (6)  At March 31, 2009, unused bank lines of credit exclude the impact of the reduction in commitments of $1.7 billion effective April 24, 2009 as described above.
 
  (7)  At both March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, excludes commitments of $308 million, respectively, from Lehman Brothers Bank, FSB, a subsidiary of Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc. Lehman Brothers Holdings, Inc. declared bankruptcy on September 15, 2008. On April 24, 2009, the Lehman exposure was reduced to $215 million as a result of the overall reduction in the unsecured revolving credit facilities.
 
  (8)  The balance at December 31, 2008 included $486 million (face amount and accrued interest) of student loans committed to be sold to ED that settled in January 2009. The balance at March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008 also included approximately $605 million and $241 million, respectively of unencumbered FFELP student loans qualified to be financed by ED’s Participation Program that were subsequently financed under that program.
 
  (9)  General corporate purposes primarily include originating Private Education Loans and repaying unsecured debt as it matures.
 
In addition to the assets listed in the table above, we hold on-balance sheet a number of other unencumbered assets, consisting primarily of Private Education Loans, Retained Interests and other assets. At


93


Table of Contents

March 31, 2009, we had a total of $32.4 billion of unencumbered assets, including goodwill and acquired intangibles. Student loans, net, comprised $19.2 billion of this unencumbered asset total.
 
Counterparty Exposure
 
As of March 31, 2009, the Company had certain exposures to counterparties impacted by the ongoing credit market dislocation. Counterparty exposure related to financial instruments arises from the risk that a lending, investment or derivative counterparty will not be able to meet its obligations to the Company.
 
Lehman Brothers Bank, FSB, a subsidiary of Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc., is a party to the Company’s unsecured revolving credit facilities under which they provide the Company with a $308 million commitment. Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc. declared bankruptcy on September 15, 2008. The Company is operating under the assumption that the lending commitment of Lehman Brothers Bank, FSB, will not be honored if drawn upon. While the Company continues to explore various options, it does not anticipate replacing its commitment from Lehman Brothers Bank, FSB. On April 24, 2009, the Lehman exposure was reduced to $215 million as a result of the overall reduction in the unsecured revolving credit facilities.
 
To provide liquidity for future cash needs, SLM invests in high quality money market investments. At March 31, 2009, the Company had investments of $64 million with The Reserve Primary Fund (“The Fund”). In September 2008, the Company requested redemption of all monies invested in The Fund prior to The Fund’s announcement that it suspended distributions as a result of The Fund’s exposure to Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc.’s bankruptcy filing and The Fund’s net asset value being below one dollar per share. The Company was originally informed by The Fund that the Company would receive its entire investment amount. Subsequently, the SEC granted The Fund an indefinite extension to pay distributions as The Fund is being liquidated. The Company has received, to date, a total of $428 million of an initial investment of $500 million from The Fund. The Company anticipates further delay of remaining distributions and a potential loss on its investments, even though the Company is legally entitled to receive 100 percent of its remaining investment amount. In the fourth quarter of 2008, we recorded an impairment of $8 million related to our investment in the Fund.
 
Protection against counterparty risk in derivative transactions is generally provided by the International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. (“ISDA”) Credit Support Annexes (“CSAs”). CSAs require a counterparty to post collateral if a potential default would expose the other party to a loss. The Company is a party to derivative contracts for its corporate purposes and also within its securitization trusts. The Company has CSAs and collateral requirements with all of its corporate derivative counterparties requiring collateral to be exchanged based on the net fair value of derivatives with each counterparty above a threshold. Additionally, credit downgrades below a preset level can eliminate this threshold. The Company’s securitization trusts require collateral in all cases if the counterparty’s credit rating is withdrawn or downgraded below a certain level. If the counterparty does not post the required collateral or is downgraded further, the counterparty must find a suitable replacement counterparty or provide the trust with a letter of credit or a guaranty from an entity that has the required credit ratings. Failure to post the collateral or find a replacement counterparty could result in a termination event under the derivative contract. The Company considers counterparties’ credit risk when determining the fair value of derivative positions on its exposure net of collateral. Securitizations involving foreign currency notes issued after November 2005 also require the counterparty to post collateral to the trust based on the fair value of the derivative regardless of credit rating. The trusts are not required to post collateral to the counterparties. If we were unable to collect from a counterparty related to SLM Corporation and on-balance sheet trust derivatives, we would have a loss equal to the amount the derivative is recorded on our balance sheet. If we were unable to collect from a counterparty related to an off-balance sheet trust derivative, the value of our Residual Interest on our balance sheet would be reduced through earnings.
 
The Company has liquidity exposure related to collateral movements between SLM Corporation and its derivative counterparties. The collateral movements can increase or decrease our primary liquidity depending on the nature of the collateral (whether cash or securities), and on movements in the value of the derivatives, which are primarily impacted by changes in interest rate and foreign currency exchange rates. These movements may require the Company to return cash collateral posted or may require the Company to access


94


Table of Contents

primary liquidity to post collateral to counterparties. Additionally, when securities are posted as collateral to the Company, the Company generally has the right to re-pledge or sell the security. As of March 31, 2009, the Company held $911 million of cash collateral in unrestricted cash accounts.
 
The table below highlights exposure related to our derivative counterparties at March 31, 2009.
 
                         
          On-Balance Sheet
    Off-Balance Sheet
 
    SLM Corporation
    Securitizations
    Securitizations
 
    Contracts     Contracts     Contracts  
 
Exposure, net of collateral
  $ 187     $ 823     $ 581  
Percent of exposure to counterparties with credit ratings below S&P AA- or Moody’s Aa3
    74 %     40 %     43 %
Percent of exposure to counterparties with credit ratings below S&P A- or Moody’s A3
    0 %     0 %     0 %
 
Managed Borrowings
 
Ending Balances
 
The following tables present the ending and average balances and average interest rates of our Managed borrowings for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008. The average interest rates include derivatives that are economically hedging the underlying debt but do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment under SFAS No. 133. (See “BUSINESS SEGMENTS — Pre-tax Differences between ‘Core Earnings’ and GAAP by Business Segment — Derivative Accounting — Reclassification of Realized Gains (Losses) on Derivative and Hedging Activities.”)
 
                                                 
    As of March 31,  
    2009     2008  
    Ending Balance     Ending Balance  
                Total
                Total
 
    Short
    Long
    Managed
    Short
    Long
    Managed
 
    Term     Term     Basis     Term     Term     Basis  
 
Unsecured borrowings
  $ 5,052     $ 29,840     $ 34,892     $ 10,086     $ 33,187     $ 43,273  
Term bank deposits
    1,066       2,215       3,281       651             651  
Indentured trusts (on-balance sheet)
          1,924       1,924       109       2,340       2,449  
2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities (on-balance sheet)(1)
    25,519             25,519       24,717             24,717  
ED Participation Program facility (on-balance sheet)(2)
    13,530             13,530                    
Securitizations (on-balance sheet)
          80,585       80,585             71,025       71,025  
Securitizations (off-balance sheet)
          36,359       36,359             40,912       40,912  
Other
    1,154             1,154       2,521             2,521  
                                                 
Total
  $ 46,321     $ 150,923     $ 197,244     $ 38,084     $ 147,464     $ 185,548  
                                                 
 
 
(1) Includes $1.9 billion and $2.0 billion outstanding in the 2008 Asset-Backed Loan Facility at March 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
 
(2) The Company has the option of paying off this amount with cash or by putting the loans to ED as previously discussed.


95


Table of Contents

 
Average Balances
 
                                 
    Three Months Ended March 31,  
    2009     2008  
    Average
    Average
    Average
    Average
 
    Balance     Rate     Balance     Rate  
 
Unsecured borrowings
  $ 35,432       2.28 %   $ 42,976       4.11 %
Term bank deposits
    2,729       3.93       460       4.63  
Indentured trusts (on-balance sheet)
    1,973       1.46       2,532       4.84  
2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities (on-balance sheet)(1)
    25,275       3.13       25,881       5.08  
ED Participation Program facility (on-balance sheet)
    11,122       3.13              
Securitizations (on-balance sheet)
    80,164       1.69       69,750       3.59  
Securitizations (off-balance sheet)
    36,795       1.21       41,467       3.83  
Other
    1,376       .66       2,042       3.32  
                                 
Total
  $ 194,866       2.00 %   $ 185,108       3.99 %
                                 
 
 
(1) Includes the 2008 Asset-Backed Loan Facility.
 
Unsecured On-Balance Sheet Financing Activities
 
The following table presents the senior unsecured credit ratings assigned by major rating agencies as of May 7, 2009.
 
                         
    Moody’s     S&P     Fitch  
 
Short-term unsecured debt
    P-2 (1)     A-3       F3 (1)
Long-term senior unsecured debt
    Baa2 (1)     BBB-       BBB(1 )
 
 
  (1)  Under review for potential downgrade.
 
The table below presents our unsecured on-balance sheet funding by funding source for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                                 
    Debt Issued For
       
    the Three Months
       
    Ended
    Outstanding at
 
    March 31,     March 31,  
    2009     2008     2009     2008  
 
Convertible debentures
  $     $     $     $  
Retail notes
                3,820       4,169  
Foreign currency denominated notes(1)
                11,971       12,808  
Extendible notes
                31       5,747  
Global notes (Institutional)
                18,472       19,952  
Medium-term notes (Institutional)
                598       597  
                                 
Total unsecured corporate borrowings
                34,892       43,273  
Term bank deposits
    1,156       462       3,281       651  
                                 
Total
  $ 1,156     $ 462     $ 38,173     $ 43,924  
                                 
 
 
  (1)  All foreign currency denominated notes are hedged using derivatives that exchange the foreign denomination for U.S. dollars.


96


Table of Contents

 
Securitization Activities
 
Securitization Program
 
The following table summarizes our securitization activity for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008. Those securitizations listed as sales are off-balance sheet transactions and those listed as financings remain on-balance sheet.
 
                                                                 
    Three Months Ended March 31,  
    2009     2008  
          Loan
                      Loan
             
    No. of
    Amount
    Pre-Tax
          No. of
    Amount
    Pre-Tax
       
    Transactions     Securitized     Gain     Gain %     Transactions     Securitized     Gain     Gain %  
 
Securitizations — sales:
                                                               
FFELP Stafford/PLUS loans
        $     $       %         $     $       %
FFELP Consolidation Loans
                                               
Private Education Loans
                                               
                                                                 
Total securitizations — sales
              $       %               $       %
                                                                 
Securitizations — financings:
                                                               
FFELP Stafford/PLUS loans(1)
                                    3       4,700                  
FFELP Consolidation Loans(1)
                                                       
Private Education Loans(1)
    1       2,891                                              
                                                                 
Total securitizations — financings
    1       2,891                       3       4,700                  
                                                                 
Total securitizations
    1     $ 2,891                       3     $ 4,700                  
                                                                 
 
 
(1) In certain securitizations there are terms within the deal structure that result in such securitizations not qualifying for sale treatment and accordingly, they are accounted for on-balance sheet as variable interest entities (“VIEs”). Terms that prevent sale treatment include: (1) allowing the Company to hold certain rights that can affect the remarketing of certain bonds, (2) allowing the trust to enter into interest rate cap agreements after initial settlement of the securitization, which do not relate to the reissuance of third-party beneficial interests or (3) allowing the Company to hold an unconditional call option related to a certain percentage of the securitized assets.
 
Retained Interest in Securitized Receivables
 
The following tables summarize the fair value of the Company’s Residual Interests, included in the Company’s Retained Interest (and the assumptions used to value such Residual Interests), along with the underlying off-balance sheet student loans that relate to those securitizations in transactions that were treated as sales as of March 31, 2009, December 31, 2008 and March 31, 2008.
 


97


Table of Contents

                                 
    As of March 31, 2009  
    FFELP
    Consolidation
    Private
       
    Stafford and
    Loan
    Education
       
    PLUS     Trusts(1)     Loan Trusts     Total  
 
Fair value of Residual Interests(2)
  $ 269     $ 832     $ 850     $ 1,951  
Underlying securitized loan balance
    6,765       14,899       13,669       35,333  
Weighted average life
    2.9 yrs.       8.1 yrs.       6.4 yrs.          
Prepayment speed (annual rate)(3)
                               
Interim status
    0 %     N/A       0 %        
Repayment status
    2-19 %     1-6 %     2-15 %        
Life of loan — repayment status
    12 %     4 %     6 %        
Expected remaining credit losses (% of outstanding student loan principal)(4)
    .10 %     .23 %     5.83 %        
Residual cash flows discount rate
    11.1 %     12.1 %     31.5 %        
 
                                 
    As of December 31, 2008  
    FFELP
    Consolidation
    Private
       
    Stafford and
    Loan
    Education
       
    PLUS     Trusts(1)     Loan Trusts     Total  
 
Fair value of Residual Interests(2)
  $ 250     $ 918     $ 1,032     $ 2,200  
Underlying securitized loan balance
    7,057       15,077       13,690       35,824  
Weighted average life
    3.0 yrs.       8.1 yrs.       6.4 yrs.          
Prepayment speed (annual rate)(3)
                               
Interim status
    0 %     N/A       0 %        
Repayment status
    2-19 %     1-6 %     2-15 %        
Life of loan — repayment status
    12 %     4 %     6 %        
Expected remaining credit losses (% of outstanding student loan principal)(4)
    .11 %     .23 %     5.22 %        
Residual cash flows discount rate
    13.1 %     11.9 %     26.3 %        
 
                                 
    As of March 31, 2008  
    FFELP
    Consolidation
    Private
       
    Stafford and
    Loan
    Education
       
    PLUS     Trusts(1)     Loan Trusts     Total  
 
Fair value of Residual Interests(2)
  $ 414     $ 804     $ 1,656     $ 2,874  
Underlying securitized loan balance
    8,907       15,777       13,901       38,585  
Weighted average life
    2.8 yrs.       7.3 yrs.       6.6 yrs.          
Prepayment speed (annual rate)(3)
                               
Interim status
    0 %     N/A       0 %        
Repayment status
    0-30 %     3-8 %     1-30 %        
Life of loan — repayment status
    17 %     6 %     9 %        
Expected remaining credit losses (% of outstanding student loan principal)(4)
    .11 %     .21 %     5.56 %        
Residual cash flows discount rate
    12.0 %     9.6 %     13.9 %        
 
 
(1) Includes $670 million, $762 million, and $452 million related to the fair value of the Embedded Floor Income as of March 31, 2009, December 31, 2008, and March 31, 2008, respectively. Changes in the fair value of the Embedded Floor Income are primarily due to changes in the interest rates and the paydown of the underlying loans.
 
(2) The Company had no unrealized gains (pre-tax) in accumulated other comprehensive income that related to the Retained Interests for any of the periods presented.
 
(3) The Company uses CPR curves for Residual Interest valuations that are based on seasoning (the number of months since entering repayment). Under this methodology, a different CPR is applied to each year of a loan’s seasoning. Repayment status CPR used is based on the number of months since first entering repayment (seasoning). Life of loan CPR is related to repayment status only and does not include the impact of the loan while in interim status. The CPR assumption used for all periods includes the impact of projected defaults.
 
(4) Remaining expected credit losses as of the respective balance sheet date.

98


Table of Contents

 
Off-Balance Sheet Net Assets
 
The following table summarizes our off-balance sheet net assets at March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008 on a basis equivalent to our GAAP on-balance sheet trusts, which presents the assets and liabilities in the off-balance sheet trusts as if they were being accounted for on-balance sheet rather than off-balance sheet. This presentation, therefore, includes a theoretical calculation of the premiums on student loans, the allowance for loan losses, and the discounts and deferred financing costs on the debt. This presentation is not, nor is it intended to be, a liquidation basis of accounting. (See also “LENDING BUSINESS SEGMENT — Summary of our Managed Student Loan Portfolio — Ending Managed Student Loan Balances, net” and “LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES — Managed Borrowings — Ending Balances” earlier in this section.)
 
                 
    March 31,
    December 31,
 
    2009     2008  
 
Off-Balance Sheet Assets:
               
Total student loans, net
  $ 34,961     $ 35,591  
Restricted cash and investments
    1,370       1,557  
Accrued interest receivable
    807       937  
                 
Total off-balance sheet assets
    37,138       38,085  
Off-Balance Sheet Liabilities:
               
Debt, par value
    36,426       37,228  
Debt, unamortized discount and deferred issuance costs
    (67 )     (69 )
                 
Total debt
    36,359       37,159  
Accrued interest payable
    67       166  
                 
Total off-balance sheet liabilities
    36,426       37,325  
                 
Off-Balance Sheet Net Assets
  $ 712     $ 760  
                 
 
Servicing and Securitization Revenue
 
Servicing and securitization revenue, the ongoing revenue from securitized loan pools accounted for off-balance sheet as Qualifying Special Purpose Entities (“QSPEs”), includes the interest earned on the Residual Interest asset and the revenue we receive for servicing the loans in the securitization trusts. Interest income recognized on the Residual Interest is based on our anticipated yield determined by estimating future cash flows each quarter.


99


Table of Contents

The following table summarizes the components of servicing and securitization revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                 
    Three Months Ended  
    March 31,
    March 31,
 
    2009     2008  
 
Servicing revenue
  $ 58     $ 64  
Securitization revenue, before net Embedded Floor Income, impairment and unrealized fair value adjustment
    81       86  
                 
Servicing and securitization revenue, before net Embedded Floor Income, impairment and unrealized fair value adjustment
    139       150  
Embedded Floor Income
    73       62  
Less: Floor Income previously recognized in gain calculation
    (47 )     (16 )
                 
Net Embedded Floor Income
    26       46  
                 
Servicing and securitization revenue, before impairment and unrealized fair value adjustment
    165       196  
Unrealized fair value adjustment
    (261 )     (88 )
Retained Interest impairment
           
                 
Total servicing and securitization revenue
  $ (96 )   $ 108  
                 
Average off-balance sheet student loans
  $ 35,576     $ 39,163  
                 
Average balance of Retained Interest
  $ 2,138     $ 2,972  
                 
Servicing and securitization revenue as a percentage of the average balance of off-balance sheet student loans (annualized)
    (1.09 )%     1.11 %
                 
 
Servicing and securitization revenue is primarily driven by the average balance of off-balance sheet student loans, the amount of and the difference in the timing of Embedded Floor Income recognition on off-balance sheet student loans and the unrealized fair value adjustments.
 
As of March 31, 2009, the Company had changed the following significant assumptions compared to those used as of December 31, 2008, to determine the fair value of the Residual Interests:
 
  •  Life of loan default rate assumptions for Private Education loans were increased as a result of the continued weakening of the U.S. economy. This resulted in a $49 million unrealized mark-to-market loss.
 
  •  The discount rate assumption related to the Private Education Loan was increased. The Company assessed the appropriateness of the current risk premium, which is added to the risk free rate for the purpose of arriving at a discount rate, in light of the current economic and credit uncertainty that exists in the market as of March 31, 2009. This discount rate is applied to the projected cash flows to arrive at a fair value representative of the current economic conditions. The Company increased the risk premium by 500 basis points to take into account the current level of cash flow uncertainty and lack of liquidity that exists with the Residual Interests. This resulted in a $126 million unrealized mark-to-market loss.
 
The Company recorded net unrealized mark-to-market losses of $261 million and $88 million in the current and year-ago quarters, respectively, related to the Residual Interest.
 
Interest Rate Risk Management
 
Asset and Liability Funding Gap
 
The tables below present our assets and liabilities (funding) arranged by underlying indices as of March 31, 2009. In the following GAAP presentation, the funding gap only includes derivatives that qualify as


100


Table of Contents

effective SFAS No. 133 hedges (those derivatives which are reflected in net interest margin, as opposed to those reflected in the “gains/(losses) on derivatives and hedging activities, net” line on the consolidated statements of income). The difference between the asset and the funding is the funding gap for the specified index. This represents our exposure to interest rate risk in the form of basis risk and repricing risk, which is the risk that the different indices may reset at different frequencies or may not move in the same direction or at the same magnitude.
 
Management analyzes interest rate risk on a Managed basis, which consists of both on-balance sheet and off-balance sheet assets and liabilities and includes all derivatives that are economically hedging our debt whether they qualify as effective hedges under SFAS No. 133 or not. Accordingly, we are also presenting the asset and liability funding gap on a Managed basis in the table that follows the GAAP presentation.
 
GAAP Basis
 
                             
Index
  Frequency of
              Funding
 
(Dollars in billions)
  Variable Resets   Assets     Funding(1)     Gap  
 
3-month Commercial paper(2)
  daily   $ 119.5     $ 13.5     $ 106.0  
3-month Treasury bill
  weekly     6.9       .1       6.8  
Prime
  annual     .5             .5  
Prime
  quarterly     1.5             1.5  
Prime
  monthly     17.7             17.7  
PLUS Index
  annual     .5             .5  
3-month LIBOR
  daily                  
3-month LIBOR
  quarterly     .2       106.0       (105.8 )
1-month LIBOR(3)
  monthly     3.5       2.0       1.5  
CMT/CPI index
  monthly/quarterly           2.9       (2.9 )
Non Discrete reset(4)
  monthly           26.1       (26.1 )
Non Discrete reset(5)
  daily/weekly     7.3       1.5       5.8  
Fixed-Rate(6)
        14.0       19.5       (5.5 )
                             
Total
      $ 171.6     $ 171.6     $  
                             
 
 
(1) Funding includes all derivatives that qualify as hedges under SFAS No. 133.
 
(2) Funding includes $13.5 billion of ED Purchase and Participation Program which resets based on the prior quarter student loan commercial paper index.
 
(3) Funding includes the 2008 Asset-Backed Loan Facility.
 
(4) Funding consists of auction rate securities and the 2008 ABCP Facilities.
 
(5) Assets include restricted and non-restricted cash equivalents and other overnight type instruments.
 
(6) Assets include receivables and other assets (including Retained Interests, goodwill and acquired intangibles). Funding includes other liabilities and stockholders’ equity (excluding series B Preferred Stock).


101


Table of Contents

 
The “Funding Gaps” in the above table are primarily interest rate mismatches in short-term indices between our assets and liabilities. We address this issue typically through the use of basis swaps that typically convert quarterly three-month LIBOR to other indices that are more correlated to our asset indices. These basis swaps do not qualify as effective hedges under SFAS No. 133 and as a result the effect on the funding index is not included in our interest margin and is therefore excluded from the GAAP presentation.
 
Managed Basis
 
                             
Index
  Frequency of
              Funding
 
(Dollars in billions)
  Variable Resets   Assets     Funding(1)     Gap  
 
3-month Commercial paper(2)
  daily   $ 139.1     $ 13.6     $ 125.5  
3-month Treasury bill
  weekly     9.4       6.7       2.7  
Prime
  annual     1.0       .3       .7  
Prime
  quarterly     6.5       3.5       3.0  
Prime
  monthly     25.3       15.3       10.0  
PLUS Index
  annual     .6       .1       .5  
3-month LIBOR(3)
  daily           107.6       (107.6 )
3-month LIBOR
  quarterly           16.2       (16.2 )
1-month LIBOR(4)
  monthly     3.5       2.0       1.5  
Non Discrete reset(5)
  monthly           23.5       (23.5 )
Non Discrete reset(6)
  daily/weekly     8.9       .9       8.0  
Fixed-Rate(7)
        11.1       15.7       (4.6 )
                             
Total
      $ 205.4     $ 205.4     $  
                             
 
 
(1) Funding includes all derivatives that management considers economic hedges of interest rate risk and reflects how we internally manage our interest rate exposure.
 
(2) Funding includes $13.5 billion of ED Purchase and Participation Program which resets based on the prior quarter student loan commercial paper index.
 
(3) Funding includes $2.5 billion of auction rate securities.
 
(4) Funding includes the 2008 Asset-Backed Loan Facility.
 
(5) Funding consists of auction rate securities and the 2008 ABCP Facilities.
 
(6) Assets include restricted and non-restricted cash equivalents and other overnight type instruments.
 
(7) Assets include receivables and other assets (including Retained Interests, goodwill and acquired intangibles). Funding includes other liabilities and stockholders’ equity (excluding series B Preferred Stock).
 
We use interest rate swaps and other derivatives to achieve our risk management objectives. To the extent possible, we fund our assets with debt (in combination with derivatives) that has the same underlying index (index type and index reset frequency). When it is more economical, we also fund our assets with debt that has a different index and/or reset frequency than the asset, but only in instances where we believe there is a high degree of correlation between the interest rate movement of the two indices. For example, we use daily reset three-month LIBOR to fund a large portion of our daily reset three-month commercial paper indexed assets. In addition, we use quarterly reset three-month LIBOR to fund a portion of our quarterly reset Prime rate indexed Private Education Loans. We also use our monthly Non Discrete reset and 1-month LIBOR funding to fund various asset types. In using different index types and different index reset frequencies to fund our assets, we are exposed to interest rate risk in the form of basis risk and repricing risk, which is the risk that the different indices that may reset at different frequencies will not move in the same direction or at the same magnitude. While we believe that this risk is low as all of these indices are short-term with rate movements that are highly correlated over a long period of time, market disruptions can lead to a temporary divergence between indices as was experienced beginning in the second half of 2007 to the present with the commercial paper and LIBOR indices. As of March 31, 2009, on a Managed Basis, we have approximately $125.5 billion of FFELP loans indexed to three-month commercial paper (“3M CP”) that are funded with debt indexed to LIBOR. We believe there is broad market recognition that, due to the unintended consequences of government action in other areas of the capital markets, the 3M CP index and its relationship to LIBOR is broken (see “LENDING BUSINESS SEGMENT” for a further discussion). The relationship between the indices has been volatile. We are working with government officials to address this issue.


102


Table of Contents

When compared with the GAAP presentation, the Managed basis presentation includes all of our off-balance sheet assets and funding, and also includes basis swaps that primarily convert quarterly three-month LIBOR to other indices that are more correlated to our asset indices.
 
Weighted Average Life
 
The following table reflects the weighted average life of our Managed earning assets and liabilities at March 31, 2009.
 
                 
    On-Balance
       
(Averages in Years)
  Sheet     Managed  
 
Earning assets
               
Student loans
    7.8       7.8  
Other loans
    5.7       5.7  
Cash and investments
    .3       .2  
                 
Total earning assets
    7.4       7.5  
                 
Borrowings
               
Short-term borrowings
    .3       .3  
Long-term borrowings
    6.7       6.6  
                 
Total borrowings
    4.8       5.1  
                 
 
Long-term debt issuances likely to be called by us or putable by the investor have been categorized according to their call or put dates rather than their maturity dates.
 
COMMON STOCK
 
The following table summarizes the Company’s common share repurchases and issuances for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008.
 
                 
    Three Months Ended
 
    March 31,  
(Shares in millions)
  2009     2008  
 
Common shares repurchased:
               
Benefit plans(1)
    .1       .3  
                 
Total shares repurchased
    .1       .3  
                 
Average purchase price per share
  $ 24.25     $ 19.82  
                 
Common shares issued
    .3       1.2  
                 
Authority remaining at end of period for repurchases
    38.8       38.8  
                 
 
 
(1) Shares withheld from stock option exercises and vesting of restricted stock for employees’ tax withholding obligations and shares tendered by employees to satisfy option exercise costs.
 
The closing price of the Company’s common stock on March 31, 2009 was $4.95.


103


Table of Contents

Item 3.   Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
 
Interest Rate Sensitivity Analysis
 
The Company’s interest rate risk management seeks to limit the impact of short-term movements in interest rates on our results of operations and financial position. The following tables summarize the effect on earnings for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008 and the effect on fair values at March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, based upon a sensitivity analysis performed by management assuming a hypothetical increase in market interest rates of 100 basis points and 300 basis points while funding spreads remain constant. Additionally, as it relates to the effect on earnings, a sensitivity analysis was performed assuming the funding index increases 25 basis points while holding the asset index constant, if the funding index is different than the asset index. Both of these analyses do not consider any potential impairment to our Residual Interests that may result from asset and funding basis divergence or a higher discount rate that would be used to compute the present value of the cash flows if long-term interest rates increased. See Note 5, “Student Loan Securitization,” to the consolidated financial statements, which details the potential decrease to the fair value of the Residual Interest that could occur under the referenced interest rate environment.
 
                                                 
    Three Months Ended March 31, 2009  
                            Asset and Funding
 
    Interest Rates:     Index
 
    Change from
    Change from
    Mismatches(1)  
    Increase of
    Increase of
    Increase of
 
    100 Basis     300 Basis
    25 Basis
 
    Points     Points     Points  
(Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)
  $     %     $     %     $     %  
 
Effect on Earnings
                                               
Increase/(decrease) in pre-tax net income before unrealized gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities
  $ (53 )     (78 )%   $ (64 )     (94 )%   $ (79 )     (116 )%
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities
    164       1073       144       945       104       681  
                                                 
Increase in net income before taxes
  $ 111       210 %   $ 80       152 %   $ 25       47 %
                                                 
Increase in diluted earnings per common share
    .237       237 %   $ .172       172 %   $ .054       54 %
                                                 
 
                                                 
    Three Months Ended March 31, 2008  
                            Asset and Funding
 
    Interest Rates:     Index
 
    Change from
    Change from
    Mismatches(1)  
    Increase of
    Increase of
    Increase of
 
    100 Basis
    300 Basis
    25 Basis
 
    Points     Points     Points  
(Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)
  $     %     $     %     $     %  
 
Effect on Earnings
                                               
Increase/(decrease) in pre-tax net income before unrealized gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities
  $ (6 )     (3 )%   $ (5 )     (2 )%   $ (70 )     (35 )%
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities
    411       113       872       239       67       18  
                                                 
Increase in net income before taxes
  $ 405       244 %   $ 867       521 %   $ (3 )     (2 )%
                                                 
Increase in diluted earnings per common share
  $ .869       310 %   $ 1.859       664 %   $ (.006 )     (2 )%
                                                 
 
 
(1) If an asset is not funded with the same index/frequency reset of the asset then it is assumed the funding index increases 25 basis points while holding the asset index constant.
 


104


Table of Contents

                                         
    At March 31, 2009  
          Interest Rates:  
          Change from
    Change from
 
          Increase of
    Increase of
 
          100 Basis
    300 Basis
 
          Points     Points  
(Dollars in millions)
  Fair Value     $     %     $     %  
 
Effect on Fair Values
                                       
Assets
                                       
Total FFELP student loans
  $ 118,469     $ (650 )     (1 )%   $ (1,342 )     (1 )%
Private Education Loans
    17,026                          
Other earning assets
    8,164       (8 )           (24 )      
Other assets
    12,888       (928 )     (7 )     (2,052 )     (16 )
                                         
Total assets
  $ 156,547     $ (1,586 )     (1 )%   $ (3,418 )     (2 )%
                                         
Liabilities
                                       
Interest bearing liabilities
  $ 137,259     $ (639 )     %   $ (1,888 )     (1 )%
Other liabilities
    3,587       (387 )     (11 )     (286 )     (8 )
                                         
Total liabilities
  $ 140,846     $ (1,026 )     (1 )%   $ (2,174 )     (2 )%
                                         
 
                                         
    At December 31, 2008  
          Interest Rates:  
          Change from
    Change from
 
          Increase of
    Increase of
 
          100 Basis
    300 Basis
 
          Points     Points  
(Dollars in millions)
  Fair Value     $     %     $     %  
 
Effect on Fair Values
                                       
Assets
                                       
Total FFELP student loans
  $ 107,319     $ (758 )     (1 )%   $ (1,602 )     (1 )%
Private Education Loans
    14,141                          
Other earning assets
    9,265       (9 )           (25 )      
Other assets
    14,590       (848 )     (6 )     (2,108 )     (14 )
                                         
Total assets
  $ 145,315     $ (1,615 )     (1 )%   $ (3,735 )     (3 )%
                                         
Liabilities
                                       
Interest bearing liabilities
  $ 135,070     $ (837 )     (1 )%   $ (2,500 )     (2 )%
Other liabilities
    3,604       (293 )     (8 )     (273 )     (8 )
                                         
Total liabilities
  $ 138,674     $ (1,130 )     (1 )%   $ (2,773 )     (2 )%
                                         
 
A primary objective in our funding is to minimize our sensitivity to changing interest rates by generally funding our floating rate student loan portfolio with floating rate debt. However, as discussed under “LENDING BUSINESS SEGMENT — Summary of our Managed Student Loan Portfolio — Floor Income — Managed Basis,” we can have a fixed versus floating mismatch in funding if the student loan earns at the fixed borrower rate and the funding remains floating. In addition, we can have a mismatch in the index (including the frequency of reset) of floating rate debt versus floating rate assets.
 
During the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008, certain FFELP loans were earning Floor Income and we locked in a portion of that Floor Income through the use of Floor Income Contracts. The result of these hedging transactions was to convert a portion of the fixed-rate nature of student loans to variable rate, and to fix the relative spread between the student loan asset rate and the variable rate liability.

105


Table of Contents

In the above table, under the scenario where interest rates increase 100 and 300 basis points, the change in pre-tax net income before the unrealized gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities is primarily due to the impact of (i) our off-balance sheet hedged FFELP Consolidation Loan securitizations and the related Embedded Floor Income recognized as part of the gain on sale, which results in a decrease in payments on the written Floor contracts that more than offset impairment losses on the Embedded Floor Income in the Residual Interest; (ii) in low interest rate environments our unhedged on-balance sheet loans being in a fixed-rate mode due to the Embedded Floor Income while being funded with variable debt; (iii) a portion of our fixed-rate assets being funded with variable debt and (iv) a portion of our variable assets being funded with fixed debt. Items (i) and (iv) will generally cause income to increase when interest rates increase from a low interest rate environment, whereas, items (ii) and (iii) will generally offset this increase. In the 100 and 300 basis point scenario for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008, the decreases in income resulted from the unhedged Floor Income discussed in item (ii) above. The sharper decline in interest rates during the three months ended March 31, 2009 versus the year-ago period, resulted in item (ii) having a greater impact on the current period.
 
Under the scenario in the tables above, called “Asset and Funding Index Mismatches,” the main driver of the decrease in pre-tax income before unrealized gains (losses) on derivative and hedging activities is the result of LIBOR-based debt funding commercial paper-indexed assets. See “LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES — Interest Rate Risk Management — Asset and Liability Funding Gap” for a further discussion. Increasing the spread between indices will also impact the unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives and hedging activities as it relates to basis swaps. Basis swaps used to convert LIBOR-based debt to indices that we believe are economic hedges of the indices of the assets being funded resulted in an unrealized loss of $(134) million for the three months ended March 31, 2009, and $(136) million for the three months ended March 31, 2008. Offsetting this unrealized loss, are basis swaps that economically hedge our off-balance sheet Private Education Loan securitization trusts. Unrealized gains for these basis swaps totaled $238 million for the three months ended March 31, 2009, and $203 million for the three months ended March 31, 2008. The net impact of both of these items was an unrealized gain for all periods presented.
 
In addition to interest rate risk addressed in the preceding tables, the Company is also exposed to risks related to foreign currency exchange rates. Foreign currency exchange risk is primarily the result of foreign currency denominated debt issued by the Company. As it relates to the Company’s corporate unsecured and securitization debt programs used to fund the Company’s business, the Company’s policy is to use cross currency interest rate swaps to swap all foreign currency denominated debt payments (fixed and floating) to U.S. dollar LIBOR using a fixed exchange rate. In the tables above, there would be an immaterial impact on earnings if exchange rates were to decrease or increase, due to the terms of the hedging instrument and hedged items matching. The balance sheet interest bearing liabilities would be affected by a change in exchange rates; however, the change would be materially offset by the cross currency interest rate swaps in other assets or other liabilities. In addition, the Company has foreign currency exchange risk as a result of international operations; however, the exposure is minimal at this time.
 
RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
 
See Note 1, “Significant Accounting Policies — Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements,” to the consolidated financial statements.
 
Item 4.   Controls and Procedures
 
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
 
Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) as of March 31, 2009. Based on this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, concluded that, as of March 31, 2009, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is (a) recorded, processed,


106


Table of Contents

summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and (b) accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
 
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
 
No change in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) occurred during the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2009 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.


107


Table of Contents

 
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
 
Item 1.   Legal Proceedings
 
We are subject to various claims, lawsuits and other actions that arise in the normal course of business. Most of these matters are claims by borrowers disputing the manner in which their loans have been processed or the accuracy of our reports to credit bureaus. In addition, the collections subsidiaries in our APG segment are routinely named in individual plaintiff or class action lawsuits in which the plaintiffs allege that we have violated a federal or state law in the process of collecting their accounts. Management believes that these claims, lawsuits and other actions will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. Finally, from time to time, we receive information and document requests from state attorneys general and Congressional committees concerning certain of our business practices. Our practice has been and continues to be to cooperate with the state attorneys general and Congressional committees and to be responsive to any such requests.
 
Item 1A.   Risk Factors
 
There have been no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008.
 
Item 2.   Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
 
The following table summarizes the Company’s common share repurchases during the first quarter of 2009 in connection with the exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted stock to satisfy minimum statutory tax withholding obligations and shares tendered by employees to satisfy option exercise costs (which combined totaled 84 thousand shares for the first quarter of 2009). See Note 8, “Stockholders’ Equity,” to the consolidated financial statements.
 
                                 
                      Maximum Number
 
                Total Number of
    of Shares That
 
                Shares Purchased
    May Yet Be
 
    Total Number
    Average Price
    as Part of Publicly
    Purchased Under
 
    of Shares
    Paid per
    Announced Plans
    the Plans or
 
(Common shares in millions)
  Purchased     Share     or Programs     Programs  
 
Period:
                               
January 1 — January 31, 2009
    .1     $ 10.31             38.8  
February 1 — February 28, 2009
                      38.8  
March 1 — March 31, 2009
                      38.8  
                                 
Total first quarter of 2009
    .1     $ 10.31                
                                 
 
Item 3.   Defaults upon Senior Securities
 
Nothing to report.
 
Item 4.   Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
 
Nothing to report.
 
Item 5.   Other Information
 
Nothing to report.


108


Table of Contents

Item 6.   Exhibits
 
The following exhibits are furnished or filed, as applicable:
 
         
  31 .1   Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
  31 .2   Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
  32 .1   Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
  32 .2   Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002


109


Table of Contents

 
SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.
 
SLM CORPORATION
(Registrant)
 
  By: 
/s/  John F. Remondi
John F. Remondi
Vice Chairman and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
 
Date: May 8, 2009


110


Table of Contents

 
GLOSSARY
 
Listed below are definitions of key terms that are used throughout this document. See also APPENDIX A, “FEDERAL FAMILY EDUCATION LOAN PROGRAM,” included in SLM Corporation’s (“the Company’s”) 2008 Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 2, 2009, for a further discussion of the FFELP.
 
2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities — Financing facilities entered into during the first quarter of 2008: (i) a $26.0 billion FFELP student loan asset-backed commercial paper (“ABCP”) conduit facility (the “2008 FFELP ABCP Facility”); (ii) a $5.9 billion Private Education Loan ABCP conduit facility (the “2008 Private Education Loan ABCP Facility”) (collectively, the “2008 ABCP Facilities”); and (iii) a $2.0 billion secured FFELP loan facility (the “2008 Asset-Backed Loan Facility”). The 2008 Asset-Backed Financing Facilities replaced the $30.0 billion Interim ABCP Facility (defined below) and $6.0 billion ABCP facility in the first quarter of 2008. During the third quarter of 2008, the Company reduced the commitments under its Private Education Loan ABCP conduit facility by approximately $2.2 billion to $3.7 billion; and the Company reduced the commitments under its FFELP ABCP Facilities by $4.1 billion to $21.9 billion. There were no changes to interest rates, maturity or other terms of the facilities made in connection with the reductions. On February 2, 2009, the Company extended the maturity date of the 2008 ABCP Facilities from February 28, 2009 to April 28, 2009 for an upfront fee. On February 27, 2009, the Company extended the maturity date of the 2008 Asset-Backed Loan Facility from February 28, 2009 to April 28, 2009.
 
On April 24, 2009, the Company extended the maturity of $21.8 billion of the 2008 FFELP ABCP Facility for one year. The 2008 FFELP ABCP Facility is now scheduled to mature on April, 23, 2010. The Company also extended its 2008 Asset-Backed Loan Facility in the amount of $1.5 billion. The 2008 Asset-Backed Loan Facility is now scheduled to mature on June 26, 2009. A total of $86 million in fees were paid related to these extensions. The 2008 Private Education Loan ABCP Facility was paid off and terminated on April 24, 2009. The stated borrowing rate of the 2008 FFELP ABCP Facility is the applicable funding rate plus 130 basis points (not including the upfront fees). The applicable funding rate will generally be the commercial paper rate. The $21.8 billion extended facility contains two contractual reductions which will require the facility limit to be reduced to $15.2 billion on June 30, 2009 and subsequently to $10.9 billion on September 30, 2009. Failure to meet these specified reductions will result in an increase in the spread to the applicable funding rate to 300 basis points. The Company expects to materially reduce the size of the 2008 FFELP ABCP Facility prior to maturity through a combination of asset securitizations and through the utilization of the ED Conduit Program. If the Company does not negotiate an extension or pay off all outstanding amounts of the 2008 FFELP ABCP Facility at maturity, the facility will extend by 90 days with the interest rate generally increasing to LIBOR plus 250 basis points to 550 basis points over the 90 day period. The other terms of the facilities remained materially unchanged.
 
Consolidation Loan Rebate Fee — All holders of FFELP Consolidation Loans are required to pay to the U.S. Department of Education (“ED”) an annual 105 basis point Consolidation Loan Rebate Fee on all outstanding principal and accrued interest balances of FFELP Consolidation Loans purchased or originated after October 1, 1993, except for loans for which consolidation applications were received between October 1, 1998 and January 31, 1999, where the Consolidation Loan Rebate Fee is 62 basis points.
 
Constant Prepayment Rate (“CPR”) — A variable in life-of-loan estimates that measures the rate at which loans in the portfolio prepay before their stated maturity. The CPR is directly correlated to the average life of the portfolio. CPR equals the percentage of loans that prepay annually as a percentage of the beginning of period balance.
 
“Core Earnings” — The Company prepares financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”). In addition to evaluating the Company’s GAAP-based financial information, management evaluates the Company’s business segments on a basis that, as allowed under the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s (“FASB”) Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 131, “Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information,” differs from GAAP. The Company refers to management’s basis of evaluating its segment results as “Core Earnings” presentations for each business segment and refers to these performance measures in its presentations with


111


Table of Contents

credit rating agencies and lenders. While “Core Earnings” results are not a substitute for reported results under GAAP, the Company relies on “Core Earnings” performance measures in operating each business segment because it believes these measures provide additional information regarding the operational and performance indicators that are most closely assessed by management.
 
“Core Earnings” performance measures are the primary financial performance measures used by management to evaluate performance and to allocate resources. Accordingly, financial information is reported to management on a “Core Earnings” basis by reportable segment, as these are the measures used regularly by the Company’s chief operating decision makers. “Core Earnings” performance measures are used in developing the Company’s financial plans, tracking results, and establishing corporate performance targets and incentive compensation. Management believes this information provides additional insight into the financial performance of the Company’s core business activities. “Core Earnings” performance measures are not defined terms within GAAP and may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies. “Core Earnings” net income reflects only current period adjustments to GAAP net income. Accordingly, the Company’s “Core Earnings” presentation does not represent another comprehensive basis of accounting.
 
See Note 15, “Segment Reporting,” to the consolidated financial statements and “MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS — BUSINESS SEGMENTS — Limitations of “Core Earnings’’ “ and “— Pre-tax Differences between “Core Earnings’ and GAAP by Business Segment” for further discussion of the differences between “Core Earnings” and GAAP, as well as reconciliations between “Core Earnings” and GAAP.
 
In prior filings with the SEC of SLM Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, “Core Earnings” has been labeled as “ “Core’ net income” or “Managed net income” in certain instances.
 
ED — The U.S. Department of Education.
 
Embedded Floor Income — Embedded Floor Income is Floor Income (see definition below) that is earned on off-balance sheet student loans that are in securitization trusts sponsored by the Company. At the time of the securitization, the value of Embedded Fixed-Rate Floor Income is included in the initial valuation of the Residual Interest (see definition below) and the gain or loss on sale of the student loans. Embedded Floor Income is also included in the quarterly fair value adjustments of the Residual Interest.
 
Exceptional Performer (“EP”) — The EP designation is determined by ED in recognition of a servicer meeting certain performance standards set by ED in servicing FFELP Loans. Upon receiving the EP designation, the EP servicer receives reimbursement on default claims higher than the legislated Risk Sharing (see definition below) levels on federally guaranteed student loans for all loans serviced for a period of at least 270 days before the date of default. The EP servicer is entitled to receive this benefit as long as it remains in compliance with the required servicing standards, which are assessed on an annual and quarterly basis through compliance audits and other criteria. The annual assessment is in part based upon subjective factors which alone may form the basis for an ED determination to withdraw the designation. If the designation is withdrawn, Risk Sharing may be applied retroactively to the date of the occurrence that resulted in noncompliance. The College Cost Reduction Act of 2007 (“CCRAA”) eliminated the EP designation effective October 1, 2007. See also Appendix A, “FEDERAL FAMILY EDUCATION LOAN PROGRAM.”
 
FDLP — The William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program.
 
FFELP — The Federal Family Education Loan Program, formerly the Guaranteed Student Loan Program.
 
FFELP Consolidation Loans — Under the FFELP, borrowers with multiple eligible student loans may consolidate them into a single student loan with one lender at a fixed-rate for the life of the loan. The new loan is considered a FFELP Consolidation Loan. Typically a borrower may consolidate his student loans only once unless the borrower has another eligible loan to consolidate with the existing FFELP Consolidation Loan. The borrower rate on a FFELP Consolidation Loan is fixed for the term of the loan and is set by the weighted average interest rate of the loans being consolidated, rounded up to the nearest 1/8th of a percent, not to


112


Table of Contents

exceed 8.25 percent. In low interest rate environments, FFELP Consolidation Loans provide an attractive refinancing opportunity to certain borrowers because they allow borrowers to consolidate variable rate loans into a long-term fixed-rate loan. Holders of FFELP Consolidation Loans are eligible to earn interest under the Special Allowance Payment (“SAP”) formula (see definition below). In April 2008, the Company suspended its participation in the FFELP Consolidation Loan program.
 
FFELP Stafford and Other Student Loans — Education loans to students or parents of students that are guaranteed or reinsured under FFELP. The loans are primarily Stafford loans but also include PLUS and HEAL loans.
 
Fixed-Rate Floor Income — The Company refers to Floor Income (see definition below) associated with student loans with borrower rates that are fixed to term (primarily FFELP Consolidation Loans and Stafford Loans originated on or after July 1, 2006) as Fixed-Rate Floor Income.
 
Floor Income — FFELP loans generally earn interest at the higher of either the borrower rate, which is fixed over a period of time, or a floating rate based on the SAP formula (see definition below). The Company generally finances its student loan portfolio with floating rate debt whose interest is matched closely to the floating nature of the applicable SAP formula. If interest rates decline to a level at which the borrower rate exceeds the SAP formula rate, the Company continues to earn interest on the loan at the fixed borrower rate while the floating rate interest on our debt continues to decline. In these interest rate environments, the Company refers to the additional spread it earns between the fixed borrower rate and the SAP formula rate as Floor Income. Depending on the type of student loan and when it was originated, the borrower rate is either fixed to term or is reset to a market rate each July 1. As a result, for loans where the borrower rate is fixed to term, the Company may earn Floor Income for an extended period of time, and for those loans where the borrower interest rate is reset annually on July 1, the Company may earn Floor Income to the next reset date. In accordance with legislation enacted in 2006, lenders are required to rebate Floor Income to ED for all FFELP loans disbursed on or after April 1, 2006.
 
The following example shows the mechanics of Floor Income for a typical fixed-rate FFELP Consolidation Loan (with a commercial paper-based SAP spread of 2.64 percent):
 
         
Fixed Borrower Rate
    7.25 %
SAP Spread over Commercial Paper Rate
    (2.64 )%
         
Floor Strike Rate(1)
    4.61 %
         
 
 
(1) The interest rate at which the underlying index (Treasury bill or commercial paper) plus the fixed SAP spread equals the fixed borrower rate. Floor Income is earned anytime the interest rate of the underlying index declines below this rate.
 
Based on this example, if the quarterly average commercial paper rate is over 4.61 percent, the holder of the student loan will earn at a floating rate based on the SAP formula, which in this example is a fixed spread to commercial paper of 2.64 percent. On the other hand, if the quarterly average commercial paper rate is below 4.61 percent, the SAP formula will produce a rate below the fixed borrower rate of 7.25 percent and the loan holder earns at the borrower rate of 7.25 percent.


113


Table of Contents

Graphic Depiction of Floor Income:
 
(LINE GRAPH)
 
Floor Income Contracts — The Company enters into contracts with counterparties under which, in exchange for an upfront fee representing the present value of the Floor Income that the Company expects to earn on a notional amount of underlying student loans being economically hedged, the Company will pay the counterparties the Floor Income earned on that notional amount over the life of the Floor Income Contract. Specifically, the Company agrees to pay the counterparty the difference, if positive, between the fixed borrower rate less the SAP (see definition below) spread and the average of the applicable interest rate index on that notional amount, regardless of the actual balance of underlying student loans, over the life of the contract. The contracts generally do not extend over the life of the underlying student loans. This contract effectively locks in the amount of Floor Income the Company will earn over the period of the contract. Floor Income Contracts are not considered effective hedges under SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,” and each quarter the Company must record the change in fair value of these contracts through income.
 
Front-End Borrower Benefits — Financial incentives offered to borrowers at origination. Front-End Borrower Benefits primarily represent the Company’s payment on behalf of borrowers for required FFELP fees, including the federal origination fee and federal default fee. The Company accounts for these Front-End Borrower Benefits as loan premiums amortized over the estimated life of the loans as an adjustment to the loan’s yield.
 
Gross Floor Income — Floor Income earned before payments on Floor Income Contracts.
 
Guarantors — State agencies or non-profit companies that guarantee (or insure) FFELP loans made by eligible lenders under The Higher Education Act of 1965 (“HEA”), as amended.
 
Interim ABCP Facility — An aggregate of $30 billion asset-backed commercial paper conduit facilities that the Company entered into on April 30, 2007 in connection with the April 16, 2007 announcement of a proposed acquisition of the Company by J.C. Flowers & Co., Bank of America, N.A., and JPMorgan Chase, N.A., which was terminated on January 25, 2008.
 
Lender Partners — Lender Partners are lenders who originate loans under forward purchase commitments under which the Company owns the loans from inception or, in most cases, acquires the loans soon after origination.
 
Managed Basis — The Company generally analyzes the performance of its student loan portfolio on a Managed Basis. The Company views both on-balance sheet student loans and off-balance sheet student loans owned by the securitization trusts as a single portfolio, and the related on-balance sheet financings are


114


Table of Contents

combined with off-balance sheet debt. When the term Managed is capitalized in this document, it is referring to Managed Basis.
 
Private Education Loans — Education loans to students or parents of students that are not guaranteed under the FFELP. Private Education Loans include loans for higher education (undergraduate and graduate degrees) and for alternative education, such as career training, private kindergarten through secondary education schools and tutorial schools. Higher education loans have repayment terms similar to FFELP loans, whereby repayments begin after the borrower leaves school. The Company’s higher education Private Education Loans are not dischargeable in bankruptcy, except in certain limited circumstances. Repayment for alternative education generally begins immediately.
 
In the context of the Company’s Private Education Loan business, the Company uses the term “non-traditional loans” to describe education loans made to certain borrowers that have or are expected to have a high default rate as a result of a number of factors, including having a lower tier credit rating, low program completion and graduation rates or, where the borrower is expected to graduate, a low expected income relative to the borrower’s cost of attendance.
 
Preferred Channel Originations — Preferred Channel Originations are comprised of: 1) loans that are originated by internally marketed Sallie Mae brands, and 2) student loans that are originated by Lender Partners (defined above).
 
Proposed Merger — On April 16, 2007, the Company announced that a buyer group (“Buyer Group”) led by J.C. Flowers & Co. (“J.C. Flowers”), Bank of America, N.A. and JPMorgan Chase, N.A. (the “Merger”) signed a definitive agreement (“Merger Agreement”) to acquire the Company for approximately $25.3 billion or $60.00 per share of common stock. (See also “Merger Agreement” filed with the SEC on the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated April 18, 2007.) On January 25, 2008, the Company, Mustang Holding Company Inc. (“Mustang Holding”), Mustang Merger Sub, Inc. (“Mustang Sub”), J.C. Flowers, Bank of America, N.A. and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. entered into a Settlement, Termination and Release Agreement (the “Agreement”). Under the Agreement, a lawsuit filed by the Company related to the Merger, as well as all counterclaims, was dismissed.
 
Repayment Borrower Benefits — Financial incentives offered to borrowers based on pre-determined qualifying factors, which are generally tied directly to making on-time monthly payments. The impact of Repayment Borrower Benefits is dependent on the estimate of the number of borrowers who will eventually qualify for these benefits and the amount of the financial benefit offered to the borrower. The Company occasionally changes Repayment Borrower Benefits programs in both amount and qualification factors. These programmatic changes must be reflected in the estimate of the Repayment Borrower Benefits discount when made.
 
Residual Interest — When the Company securitizes student loans, it retains the right to receive cash flows from the student loans sold to trusts that it sponsors in excess of amounts needed to pay servicing, derivative costs (if any), other fees, and the principal and interest on the bonds backed by the student loans. The Residual Interest, which may also include reserve and other cash accounts, is the present value of these future expected cash flows, which includes the present value of any Embedded Fixed-Rate Floor Income described above. The Company values the Residual Interest at the time of sale of the student loans to the trust and as of the end of each subsequent quarter.
 
Retained Interest — The Retained Interest includes the Residual Interest (defined above) and servicing rights (as the Company retains the servicing responsibilities) for our securitization transactions accounted for as sales.
 
Risk Sharing — When a FFELP loan first disbursed on and after July 1, 2006 defaults, the federal government guarantees 97 percent of the principal balance plus accrued interest (98 percent on loans disbursed before July 1, 2006) and the holder of the loan is at risk for the remaining amount not guaranteed as a Risk Sharing loss on the loan. FFELP loans originated after October 1, 1993 are subject to Risk Sharing on loan default claim payments unless the default results from the borrower’s death, disability or bankruptcy. FFELP loans serviced by a servicer that has Exceptional Performer designation from ED were subject to one-percent


115


Table of Contents

Risk Sharing for claims filed on or after July 1, 2006 and before October 1, 2007. The CCRAA reduces default insurance to 95 percent of the unpaid principal and accrued interest for loans first disbursed on or after October 1, 2012.
 
Special Allowance Payment (“SAP”) — FFELP loans disbursed prior to April 1, 2006 (with the exception of certain PLUS and SLS loans discussed below) generally earn interest at the greater of the borrower rate or a floating rate determined by reference to the average of the applicable floating rates (91-day Treasury bill rate or commercial paper) in a calendar quarter, plus a fixed spread that is dependent upon when the loan was originated and the loan’s repayment status. If the resulting floating rate exceeds the borrower rate, ED pays the difference directly to the Company. This payment is referred to as the Special Allowance Payment or SAP and the formula used to determine the floating rate is the SAP formula. The Company refers to the fixed spread to the underlying index as the SAP spread. For loans disbursed after April 1, 2006, FFELP loans effectively only earn at the SAP rate, as the excess interest earned when the borrower rate exceeds the SAP rate (Floor Income) must be refunded to ED.
 
Variable rate PLUS Loans and SLS Loans earn SAP only if the variable rate, which is reset annually, exceeds the applicable maximum borrower rate. For PLUS loans disbursed on or after January 1, 2000, this limitation on SAP was repealed effective April 1, 2006.
 
A schedule of SAP rates is set forth on pages A-7 and A-8 of the Company’s 2008 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
 
Variable Rate Floor Income — For FFELP Stafford loans whose borrower interest rate resets annually on July 1, the Company may earn Floor Income or Embedded Floor Income (see definitions above) based on a calculation of the difference between the borrower rate and the then current interest rate. The Company refers to this as Variable Rate Floor Income because Floor Income is earned only through the next reset date.


116