MORE THAN A PAYCHECK:
Loan Forgiveness
Certain professions don't just include a paycheck, but also the opportunity to pay down a portion of your student loan debt. Below are some of the fields where a job can help reduce or eliminate debt from your college education. You can learn more about various programs by logging on to www.federalstudentaid.ed.gov, or checking with colleges to see what they offer.
Health Care Professionals
If you work full-time as a nurse or medical technician, your federal Perkins Loan debt may be canceled — for instance, if you work in an underserved area. Learn more at www.bhpr.hrsa.gov and www.hhs.gov.
Child Care Providers
If you work at a designated child care site or for a Head Start program, your federal Perkins Loan debt may be canceled.
National Service Volunteers
Americorps awards may be used to pay off your federal student loan debt. Visit www.americorps.gov to learn more. Also, if you serve as a VISTA or Peace Corps volunteer, a portion of your federal Perkins Loan debt may be canceled.
Military Personnel / Law Enforcement Officers
Certain branches of the U.S. Armed Forces and divisions of law enforcement offer loan assumption benefits to reduce or cancel debt. In fact, if you serve in an area of hostility or imminent danger, up to half of your federal Perkins Loan debt may be canceled. For more information, visit www.todaysmilitary.com.
Lawyers
If you're a law school graduate working in public service, your school may offer loan repayment benefits. Contact your school or visit www.equaljusticeworks.org to learn more.
Federal Employees
If you work for certain departments of the U.S. Government, you may be eligible for loan assumption benefits.
Public Service Employees
After 10 years of employment in certain areas of public service, you may be eligible for federal student loan debt forgiveness on any remaining balance.
