The layoffs call into question how agency will be able to handle major operations such as student loans, FAFSA, the Nation’s Report Card and civil rights complaints.

As part of the federal government's plan to gut the Department of Education, the agency cut half of its workforce, which could impact how it administers its student loan programs.

The Trump administration has taken its latest step toward dismantling the Department of Education — and despite assurances that the agency will “continue to deliver” on programs it’s legally responsible for, like student loans, experts warn it’s likely borrowers will feel significant disruptions .