Student Loan Assistance

Federal Loan Forgiveness Programs

Explore federal student loan forgiveness and repayment programs, including eligibility requirements, application steps, and PSLF options for healthcare professionals.


Federal

State Loan Forgiveness Programs

Explore Connecticut-based student loan resources, including CHESLA and RISLA, statewide assistance programs, the student loan ombudsman, and additional borrower support options.


State

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Should I consolidate my loan?

    Before deciding to consolidate your loans, it's important to weigh the benefits against the potential downsides. Here are the main questions to ask yourself:


    1. Why am I considering consolidation?
    2. What type of loans do I have?
    3. Will consolidation lower my monthly payment?
    4. Will I lose any benefits?
    5. How will it affect my repayment timeline?
    6. Should I consolidate all loans or just some?
    7. Is refinancing a better option?
    8. Will this decision benefit me now and in the future?

  • What repayment plans are available?

    Federal borrowers can choose from several plans, including:


    1. Standard Repayment - Fixed monthly payments over 10 years.
    2. Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) - Payments based on income and family size; may be as low as $0.
    3. Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) - New plan starting July 1, 2026; 30 years of payments before relief.
    4. Tiered Standard Plan - Standard plan with loan term based on loan value (10-25 years).
    5. IBR (Income-Based Repayment) - Payments never exceed the 10-year Standard plan amount

  • How do I know which plan I'm on?

    Check your StudentAid.gov account under the Repayment Planning card to see your current plan and status.

  • What happens if I can't afford my payment?

    You may qualify for an IDR plan or IBR to lower or pause payments. You can also apply for deferments (e.g., in-school deferment if you're enrolled at least half-time) or forebearance if you have financial hardship.

  • What about the SAVE plan changes?

    The Biden-era SAVE plan (2023) is ending in July 2026. Borrowers must switch to RAP or the Tiered Standard Plan by the deadline, or be automatically enrolled in one.

  • How long do I have to repay my loan?

    The repayment term depends on the plan and loan type. Grace periods, deferments, and forbearances do not count toward the term.

  • What if I'm behind on payments?

    You can make any payment at any time to bring your account current. If you're struggling, contact your servicer for a new repayment plan.

  • Are there forgiveness options?

    Yes - programs like Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), Teacher Loan Forgiveness, and health care provider loan forgiveness may apply if you meet eligiblity criteria.

  • How do I consolidate loans?

    You can consolidate multiple federal loans into one Direct Consolidation Loan to simplify payments, but you may lose certain benefits like loan forgiveness protections.

  • How do I know when a payment is due?

    Servicers send statements about three weeks before the due date. In deferment or forbearance, you may not receive monthly statements.