Students affected by the closure of CEHE schools, such as Independence University, Stevens-Henager College, CollegeAmerica, and California College San Diego, have several federal loan relief options at their disposal. Understanding these options can help you manage your educational debt effectively.
1. **Closed School Discharge**: This program allows students who were enrolled or withdrew within 120 days of the school's closure to have their federal loans discharged. It's essential to contact your loan servicer to determine your eligibility for this discharge.
2. **Loan Forgiveness Programs**: If you qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), you may have additional pathways to alleviate your loan burden depending on your employment status.
3. **Income-Driven Repayment Plans**: For ongoing loans, enrolling in an income-driven repayment plan can adjust your monthly payments based on your income, making repayments more manageable.
4. **Transfer Credits to Another Institution**: Another option is to transfer credits to a different institution to continue your education and reduce the amount of debt you carry.
5. **Seek Help from Advocacy Groups**: Organizations like Student Loan Borrowers Assistance offer resources and guidance tailored to affected borrowers.
By understanding and utilizing these available options, students can empower themselves to better navigate the aftermath of their school's closure.