Education Funding &
Loan Forgiveness Guide
Over 200 programs — loan forgiveness, loan repayment assistance, scholarships, employer education benefits, and affordable school options — organized alphabetically by career field. Federal, state, military, employer, and institution-based. Free to all.
Important (April 2026): The federal PSLF program is currently under legal scrutiny. The SAVE repayment plan was cancelled in 2025 — switch to IBR, PAYE, or ICR. A new Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) launches July 1, 2026. Always verify current eligibility at studentaid.gov before making career decisions.
The FAFSA unlocks federal grants, subsidized loans, and work-study before any forgiveness program applies. Our step-by-step guide walks you through the checklist, deadlines, and loan types — with a private notepad that saves only to your device.
Universal Programs — All Career Fields
These programs apply broadly and are not limited to one profession. Check eligibility regardless of your career.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
Full-time employees of federal, state, local, or tribal government agencies and 501(c)(3) nonprofits. Must be on an income-driven repayment plan. Forgiveness is tax-free. Rule changes effective July 2026 may affect qualifying employers — verify at studentaid.gov.
Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) Forgiveness
Plans: IBR, PAYE, ICR. Payment as low as $0/month based on discretionary income. Best for private-sector workers or high-debt/lower-income borrowers. Note: The SAVE plan was cancelled in 2025. A new Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) launches July 1, 2026. Forgiven amounts may be taxable — consult a tax professional.
Perkins Loan Cancellation
15% per year for Years 1 & 2; 20% per year for Years 3 & 4; 30% in Year 5. Covers teachers, law enforcement, firefighters, social workers, librarians, early childhood educators, military, and more. Perkins Loans are no longer issued but existing borrowers can still apply.
AmeriCorps Education Award
For volunteers completing a term of national service. Can be used for future tuition OR existing federal student loan repayment.
Employer Education Assistance (Section 127)
Many employers pay up to $5,250/year in student loan assistance tax-free under IRS Section 127. Ask your HR department if your employer participates. Applies to all career fields.
Programs by Career Field (A–Z)
Click any career field to expand its programs.
Special Populations & Situations
Additional programs for specific groups regardless of career field.
Native Hawaiian / Pacific Islander
Native American / Alaska Native Communities
Disability-Related Discharge
Faculty / Nursing Educators
California-Specific Programs (HCAI)
The California Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI) at hcai.ca.gov operates several loan repayment programs for healthcare workers practicing in underserved areas of California.
Also available to California residents:
Free Scholarship & Grant Search Databases
Use these free tools to find additional scholarships and grants for any career field. All are free to use.
Tips for Maximizing Your Benefits
Employer & Military In-House Education Programs
Many employers pay full tuition, provide a salary or stipend while you study, and require a service commitment afterward. These are among the most powerful pathways to debt-free advanced healthcare education.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
The VA is the largest provider of health professions education in the United States. Most programs require a service obligation at a VA facility.
Military Branch In-House Medical Education Programs
All military branches offer programs that pay for healthcare education — including full tuition, a monthly stipend, and full military pay and benefits — in exchange for a service commitment.
Major Hospital System Employer Education Programs
Large hospital systems invest heavily in workforce development. Most programs require a 1–3 year work commitment after receiving funds. Check with your local HR office, as benefits vary by facility.
CDCR / California State Government
For California state employees including CDCR healthcare staff.
Indian Health Service (IHS) Employer Programs
IHS operates within the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps — serving Native American and Alaska Native communities.
Key Tips for Employer Education Programs
Disclaimer: Program details, funding levels, and eligibility requirements change frequently. Always verify current information directly with program administrators before making educational or career decisions. Compiled April 2026.