Yes, you can get your student loans forgiven, but it depends on the type of loans you have and the program you qualify for. Federal student loans offer several forgiveness options, while private loans generally do not. This guide explains the main paths to forgiveness and what you need to do to apply.
What Is Student Loan Forgiveness?
Student loan forgiveness means the government cancels all or part of your federal student loan debt. You no longer have to make payments on the forgiven amount. This is different from deferment or forbearance, which only pause payments temporarily.
Most forgiveness programs require you to meet specific conditions, such as working in a certain job or making payments for a set number of years. You must apply and be approved before your loans are forgiven.
Main Federal Forgiveness Programs
There are several federal programs designed to forgive loans for people who work in public service, teaching, or who have been paying for a long time. Below is a table of the most common options.
| Program | Who Qualifies | Time to Forgiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) | Full-time employees of government or non-profit organizations | 120 qualifying payments (about 10 years) |
| Teacher Loan Forgiveness | Teachers in low-income schools for 5 consecutive years | After 5 years of service |
| Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) Forgiveness | Borrowers on IDR plans with remaining balance after 20 or 25 years | 20 or 25 years of qualifying payments |
| Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) Discharge | Borrowers with a severe disability | Application review, no set time |
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
PSLF is for people who work for a government agency or a non-profit organization. You must have federal Direct Loans and make 120 qualifying monthly payments while working full-time for a qualifying employer. Payments must be made under an income-driven repayment plan or the standard 10-year plan.
You need to submit the PSLF form annually or when you change employers. The U.S. Department of Education tracks your progress, but it is your responsibility to certify your employment.
Teacher Loan Forgiveness
If you teach full-time for five consecutive years in a low-income elementary or secondary school, you may qualify for up to $17,500 in forgiveness. The amount depends on your subject area and qualifications. You must have Direct or FFEL loans, but FFEL loans may need to be consolidated into a Direct Loan.
Apply after you complete your five years of teaching. Your school’s chief administrative officer must certify your service.
Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) Forgiveness
Income-driven repayment plans set your monthly payment based on your income and family size. After 20 or 25 years of qualifying payments, any remaining balance is forgiven. The exact number of years depends on the plan and when you took out your loans.
As of 2026, the U.S. Department of Education is implementing the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan, which offers a shorter forgiveness period for some borrowers. However, legal challenges have affected this plan, so check the official website for current status.
You must recertify your income and family size each year to stay on an IDR plan. Payments made under any IDR plan count toward forgiveness, but periods of deferment or forbearance may not count.
Other Forgiveness Options
- Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) Discharge – for borrowers who are unable to work due to a disability.
- Closed School Discharge – if your school closes while you are enrolled or shortly after you withdraw.
- False Certification Discharge – if your school forged your signature or misrepresented its program.
- Borrower Defense to Repayment – if your school misled you or violated certain laws.
How to Apply for Forgiveness
Each program has its own application process. For PSLF, you use the PSLF Help Tool on the Federal Student Aid website. For Teacher Loan Forgiveness, you fill out the Teacher Loan Forgiveness Application. For IDR forgiveness, you must be on an IDR plan and reach your repayment term.
Keep records of your employment, payments, and any correspondence. Submit all required forms on time. If you are denied, you can appeal or request a reconsideration.
What About Private Loans?
Private student loans are not eligible for federal forgiveness programs. Some private lenders may offer discharge in cases of death or disability, but this is not guaranteed. If you have private loans, contact your lender to ask about options, but do not expect forgiveness based on public service or income.
Common Myths and Mistakes
One common myth is that all student loans are forgiven after 10 years – that only applies to PSLF. Another myth is that you need to pay for forgiveness – legitimate programs never charge a fee. Avoid scams that promise immediate forgiveness for a fee.
Always use official government websites to apply. Never share your Federal Student Aid ID or bank information with anyone who contacts you unsolicited.
Your Next Steps
To find out if you qualify, log in to your Federal Student Aid account and review your loan types. Use the loan simulator to see your repayment options. If you work in public service, submit the PSLF form as soon as possible.
If you are unsure, contact your loan servicer or the Federal Student Aid information center. You can also consult a student loan counselor, but be wary of anyone who charges a large fee for help.
In summary, yes, you can get your student loans forgiven, but you must meet specific requirements and apply correctly. Start by identifying which program fits your situation, then gather your documents and submit your application. The process takes time, but forgiveness is possible for many borrowers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my student loans forgiven if I work for a non-profit?
Yes, if you work full-time for a qualifying non-profit organization and make 120 qualifying payments under an income-driven repayment plan, you may qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
How long does it take to get student loans forgiven?
It depends on the program – Public Service Loan Forgiveness takes 10 years, Teacher Loan Forgiveness takes 5 years, and income-driven repayment forgiveness takes 20 or 25 years.
Are private student loans eligible for forgiveness?
No, private student loans are not eligible for federal forgiveness programs, but some private lenders may offer discharge in cases of death or disability.
Can I get my student loans forgiven if I am disabled?
Yes, you may qualify for a Total and Permanent Disability discharge if you can provide documentation from a physician, the Social Security Administration, or the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Do I have to pay taxes on forgiven student loans?
Under current law, forgiven federal student loans are not taxable for borrowers who qualify for PSLF or IDR forgiveness through 2025, but the rules may change in the future.
