My spouse owes $30,000 in back student loans. This was before we got married. Can they put a lien on my house and what does it mean if they do?

First its not a good idea to piggyback your question on someone else's. This can lead to confusion. You should start a new thread. So I've moved your question to its own thread.

They can attach or put a lien on any property or assets where she is listed as an owner, either fully or partially.

A lien is an encumbrance on a property that prevents it from being sold or transferred until the lien is satisified.

Thank you Scott that is very helpful--is there anything else that they can do

Since Student loans are quasi govt, they can attach your tax return, garnish her salary, attach joint bank accounts etc.

P.S. I moved your second question here to go along with the first one. Again, please don't add your question to someone else's

Thank you Scott that is very helpful--is there anythin else that they can do

They will intercept her/your tax returns if you file jointly. There is a form you can submit with this to prevent them from taking 'your' share.

And any student loans that are provided by the government are not dischargeable in a bankruptcy proceeding.