• Eligibility depends upon the type of loan, when it was made, and whether it's in default. Check with your loan officer to find out if you qualify.
• Loan Consolidation: combine your federal loans into a single loan with one monthly payment.
• Sometimes loans may be canceled in exchange for public service.
• Teachers: Cancellation/Deferment Options
• Health professions: National Health Service Corps
• Federal employees: Federal Student Loan Repayment Program
• If you are having problems with your loan and all other approaches fail, contact the Department of Education's Office of the Ombudsman.

States, schools, and some private employers provide help in repaying loans in exchange for public service.

• Law school graduates: State Loan Repayment and Forgiveness Programs
• Medical school graduates: State Loan Repayment Program