Student loan forgiveness or other forms of relief depend on the specific loan, borrower circumstances, and applicable program requirements. Not every borrower or loan qualifies, and eligibility can change depending on federal rules and program conditions.

Some federal programs may provide relief based on factors such as the borrower’s employment, repayment history, disability, or other qualifying circumstances. Certain borrowers may also have access to other forms of discharge or cancellation when specific requirements are met.

Because these programs can have detailed conditions, don’t assume that simply having federal student debt means you qualify for forgiveness. Check the current requirements for the specific program and make sure you understand whether your loan type and repayment history meet them.

Be especially cautious of companies promising guaranteed forgiveness in exchange for upfront fees or sensitive information. Start with official loan-servicer or government information before paying anyone for assistance. You can also review our guide to student loan repayment to understand the broader options available.