Forgiveness
Teacher Loan Forgiveness: Current Eligibility and Amounts
Current Teacher Loan Forgiveness rules for five consecutive complete academic years, eligible schools, loan types, $5,000 and $17,500 tiers, and PSLF.
Teacher Loan Forgiveness can forgive eligible Direct Loan or FFEL principal and interest after at least five consecutive, complete academic years of full-time teaching at an eligible elementary school, secondary school, or educational service agency. The official application and certification determine whether each service year and loan qualifies.
Forgiveness amounts
Up to $17,500 is available for a highly qualified full-time secondary mathematics or science teacher and for a highly qualified full-time special education teacher who meets the program conditions. Other eligible highly qualified teachers may receive up to $5,000. PLUS loans are not eligible.
Interaction with PSLF and taxes
The same teaching service period cannot be counted for both Teacher Loan Forgiveness and PSLF. Compare the value and timing before applying. Teacher Loan Forgiveness is an identified exception to the general federal cancellation-of-debt rule, but state treatment and individual tax circumstances should still be reviewed.
Frequently asked questions
Who can receive up to $17,500?
Eligible highly qualified full-time secondary mathematics or science teachers and qualifying highly qualified full-time special education teachers may receive up to $17,500.
Can the same teaching years count for TLF and PSLF?
No. The same period of teaching service cannot be used to satisfy both programs.