Fitch Ratings published its BB long-term issuer default ratings and B short-term issuer default ratings for Sallie Mae and Sallie Mae Bank.

The rating outlook is positive.

In rating Sallie Mae, Fitch took into account the company's market-leading position in the U.S. private education loan industry, its predominantly prime loan portfolio and high co-signor rates, and the nondischargeability of private student loans in bankruptcy.

The positive outlook reflects the expectation for stable credit performance in the face of increased portfolio seasoning, enhanced earnings stability, solid capitalization, improved funding diversification and continued execution on growth and risk management objectives.