Graduate and Professional Borrowers FAQ
- Who You Can Contact with Questions
- Postponing Payments
- Managing Your Loan Balance and Payments
- Internship/Residency
Who You Can Contact with Questions
I am a graduate and professional borrower with unique needs pertaining to the management of my loan. Who can assist me with all of my questions?
We've created a team of experienced specialists devoted to graduate and professional students. Our specialists are available to help Monday through Thursday 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM (ET) and Friday 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM (ET) at 1-800-699-2908!
Postponing Payments
I need to postpone my loan payments. How do I choose a deferment or forbearance?
A deferment or forbearance lets you temporarily postpone loan payments. To find the option that best fits your situation, take our Eligibility Quiz:
| Step 1 | Sign in to Account Access. |
|---|---|
| Step 2 | Select the "Payments and Billing" link on the left. |
| Step 3 | Choose "Postpone Payments" and scroll down to the bottom of the page. |
| Step 4 | Choose "Take Eligibility Quiz Now". |
The quiz provides the deferment and forbearance options for which you may be eligible based on your circumstances. You can apply for some options online; others require that you complete a form and send it to us for processing.
I am currently making payments on my loans. Can I postpone my payments when I return to school?
If you are enrolled in school at least half time or will be enrolled soon, submit an In-School Deferment Request (PDF) to postpone your loan payments, or call us at 1-800-699-2908.
Managing Your Loan Balance and Payments
I've been in/was in school for so long that my balance seems unmanageable. What are my options?
We have several repayment options that may work in your unique situation. However, if you can't make payments, we can work with you to determine if/when temporarily suspending your payments may help. You may even have options to have some of your balance forgiven based on different criteria.
Contact Us to discuss your options.
I'm still in school but my balance keeps growing and I'm getting concerned. How can I mitigate this?
Making payments on your unsubsidized loans can help lessen the amount of interest that will capitalize (be added to your balance) later.
I can't afford my full payment amount. What are my options?
If you're having trouble making your payments, don't wait until you fall behind to seek help. Some options include:
I work in Public Service and I'm worried I won't make enough money to repay my student loans. What should I do?
You may qualify for forgiveness of any remaining balance on your eligible federal student loans thanks to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program. For more information on PSLF or the eligibility requirements, visit MyFedLoan.org/PSLF.
Internship/Residency
I'm in or getting ready to start an internship/residency program. What should I do?
You may qualify for a deferment or forbearance that would postpone your payments for a designated period of time. However, suspending payments can have a big impact on your overall ability to repay your student loans.
Therefore, consider making lower payments to limit the interest that will capitalize (be added to your balance) over time. You might also qualify for $0 payments based on your situation.
Visit Repayment Schedule Estimator to review some of your options or Contact Us now.