Savanna Hoffman
If you're seeking DeVry student loan forgiveness, you likely attended DeVry University and are now burdened by student debt. Fortunately, there are several pathways to explore, such as the Borrower Defense to Repayment program, which allows borrowers to apply for loan forgiveness if they were misled by their school. Additionally, DeVry students may be eligible for relief under the Closed School Discharge program if they were enrolled when the school closed or withdrew shortly before closure. Another option is the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, which forgives remaining loan balances after 120 qualifying payments for those working in eligible public service jobs. It’s crucial to review your specific circumstances and gather supporting documentation to strengthen your case for forgiveness. Consulting with a student loan advisor or attorney can also provide tailored guidance to navigate these options effectively.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Eligibility Criteria | Borrowers who attended DeVry University and were misled by the institution |
| Loan Types Covered | Federal student loans (Direct Loans, FFEL, Perkins Loans) |
| Forgiveness Programs | Borrower Defense to Repayment (BDR), Closed School Discharge |
| Evidence Required | Proof of enrollment, documentation of school misconduct, loan details |
| Application Process | Submit a Borrower Defense application via the Federal Student Aid website |
| Processing Time | Varies, typically several months to years |
| Current Status | Active, with ongoing approvals for eligible borrowers |
| Additional Benefits | Potential refund of amounts already paid on discharged loans |
| Key Legal Basis | DeVry's settlement with the FTC for deceptive practices |
| Updates (as of 2023) | Increased approvals due to Biden administration's focus on loan forgiveness |
| Where to Apply | Federal Student Aid Borrower Defense |
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What You'll Learn
- Eligibility Criteria: Understand income, employment, and loan type requirements for DeVry student loan forgiveness
- Borrower Defense: File claims based on DeVry’s misconduct or false promises for loan discharge
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): Qualify by working in public service and making 120 payments
- Closed School Discharge: Apply if DeVry closed while enrolled or soon after withdrawal
- Total and Permanent Disability (TPD): Get loans forgiven with documented permanent disability verification
Eligibility Criteria: Understand income, employment, and loan type requirements for DeVry student loan forgiveness
To qualify for DeVry student loan forgiveness, understanding the eligibility criteria is your first step. These criteria are not one-size-fits-all; they hinge on your income, employment status, and the type of loans you hold. For instance, the Borrower Defense to Repayment (BDR) program, a common pathway for DeVry students, requires proof that the school misled you about job placement rates, educational quality, or accreditation. Similarly, Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) demands a decade of qualifying payments while working full-time for a government or nonprofit organization. Each program has distinct requirements, so pinpointing which one aligns with your situation is crucial.
Income plays a pivotal role in determining eligibility, particularly for income-driven repayment (IDR) plans, which can lead to loan forgiveness after 20–25 years of payments. These plans cap your monthly payment at a percentage of your discretionary income, typically 10–20%, depending on the plan. For example, if your annual income is $40,000 and your family size is two, your discretionary income under the Revised Pay As You Earn (REPAYE) plan would be calculated as the difference between your income and 150% of the poverty guideline for your family size. This calculation directly impacts your monthly payment and, ultimately, your path to forgiveness.
Employment status is another critical factor, especially for programs like PSLF. To qualify, you must work at least 30 hours per week for a qualifying employer, such as a federal, state, local, or tribal government agency, or a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Documentation is key—you’ll need to submit Employment Certification Forms periodically and at the time of forgiveness to prove eligibility. Even job changes within the public sector must be documented to ensure uninterrupted qualification.
Loan type matters significantly, as not all loans are eligible for forgiveness programs. Federal Direct Loans, for instance, are eligible for PSLF and most IDR plans, while Federal Family Education Loans (FFEL) and Perkins Loans may require consolidation into a Direct Loan to qualify. DeVry students often held private loans, which generally aren’t eligible for federal forgiveness programs. However, if your private loans were part of a deceptive lending scheme tied to DeVry’s misconduct, you might have grounds for discharge through BDR.
Navigating these criteria requires precision and persistence. Start by gathering documentation of DeVry’s misconduct, your employment history, and loan details. Use tools like the Federal Student Aid website to determine your loan type and explore repayment plans. Consult with a student loan advisor or attorney specializing in loan forgiveness to avoid pitfalls. Remember, eligibility isn’t just about fitting into a category—it’s about proving your case with evidence and adhering to program rules. With the right approach, DeVry student loan forgiveness can move from possibility to reality.
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Borrower Defense: File claims based on DeVry’s misconduct or false promises for loan discharge
DeVry University has faced significant scrutiny for alleged misconduct and misleading practices, leaving many graduates burdened with student loans they struggle to repay. If you attended DeVry and believe you were misled about job placement rates, program accreditation, or the value of your degree, you may be eligible for loan forgiveness through the Borrower Defense to Repayment program. This federal initiative allows borrowers to seek discharge of their federal student loans if their school violated state laws directly related to their loans or education.
To file a Borrower Defense claim, start by gathering evidence of DeVry’s misconduct. This could include marketing materials, enrollment agreements, or transcripts of conversations with admissions representatives that promised unrealistic outcomes, such as guaranteed employment or inflated salary potential. The U.S. Department of Education has already found DeVry guilty of deceptive advertising, particularly regarding its job placement rates, which strengthens your case. Submit your claim through the Federal Student Aid website, detailing how DeVry’s actions violated state laws and directly impacted your decision to enroll.
One critical aspect of a successful claim is demonstrating a clear connection between DeVry’s misconduct and your enrollment. For example, if DeVry claimed a 90% job placement rate for your program, but you later discovered this figure was inflated, explain how this misrepresentation influenced your decision to take out loans. Be specific about the harm you suffered, such as inability to find employment in your field or earning significantly less than promised. Including personal testimony and supporting documents will bolster your case.
While filing a Borrower Defense claim can be complex, it’s a powerful tool for those who feel deceived by DeVry’s practices. Keep in mind that the process may take time, and approval is not guaranteed. However, if successful, you could have your federal student loans fully discharged and even receive refunds for amounts already paid. Stay informed about updates to the program, as policies can change under different administrations. Consulting with a student loan attorney or advocate can also provide valuable guidance tailored to your situation.
Finally, be cautious of scams targeting borrowers seeking loan forgiveness. Legitimate Borrower Defense claims are filed directly through the U.S. Department of Education at no cost. Avoid companies that charge fees to file claims on your behalf or promise immediate results. By taking a methodical approach and leveraging available resources, you can navigate the process effectively and increase your chances of securing the relief you deserve.
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Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): Qualify by working in public service and making 120 payments
If you attended DeVry University and are burdened by student loans, Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) could be a viable path to debt relief. This federal program forgives the remaining balance on your Direct Loans after you’ve made 120 qualifying payments while working full-time for a qualifying public service employer. Unlike income-driven forgiveness programs, PSLF doesn’t require you to prove financial hardship—just a commitment to public service. However, the process is detail-oriented, and mistakes can disqualify you, so understanding the requirements is critical.
To qualify for PSLF, your employer must be a government organization at any level (federal, state, local, or tribal), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, or another type of nonprofit that provides certain public services. DeVry graduates working in fields like education, healthcare, or social services often find their employers eligible. For example, teaching at a public school, working as a nurse at a nonprofit hospital, or serving as a counselor at a government-funded agency could all count toward PSLF. Verify your employer’s eligibility using the Federal Student Aid Employer Search Tool to avoid wasting years of payments that don’t qualify.
The 120 qualifying payments required for PSLF must be made under an income-driven repayment plan, such as Income-Based Repayment (IBR) or Pay As You Earn (PAYE), which cap your monthly payments at a percentage of your discretionary income. These plans often result in lower monthly payments than the standard 10-year plan, making them more manageable for public service workers. Each payment must be made on time and in full to count toward the 120 total. Keep detailed records of your payments and employment certification forms, as the Department of Education will require documentation when you apply for forgiveness.
One common pitfall is assuming all federal loans automatically qualify for PSLF. Only Direct Loans are eligible; Federal Family Education Loans (FFEL) and Perkins Loans do not qualify unless you consolidate them into a Direct Consolidation Loan. If you have multiple loans, consolidating them can simplify the process, but be cautious—consolidation resets your payment count, so time toward forgiveness starts over. Additionally, if you’ve made payments under a non-qualifying plan, those won’t count, even if you later switch to an income-driven plan.
Finally, persistence and attention to detail are key. Submit the PSLF Employment Certification Form annually or whenever you change employers to ensure your payments are tracking correctly. When you reach 120 payments, submit the PSLF application to receive forgiveness. While the process can be bureaucratic, the reward—full loan forgiveness, tax-free—is significant. For DeVry graduates in public service, PSLF offers a clear, if demanding, path to financial freedom.
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Closed School Discharge: Apply if DeVry closed while enrolled or soon after withdrawal
If DeVry University closed while you were enrolled or shortly after you withdrew, you may qualify for a Closed School Discharge to eliminate your federal student loans. This little-known provision of the Higher Education Act offers a lifeline to students left in limbo by abrupt school closures, but navigating the application process requires precision. Here’s how to determine eligibility and pursue relief.
Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility Timeline
To qualify, you must meet one of two criteria: you were enrolled at DeVry when it closed, or you withdrew no more than 120 days before the closure date. If DeVry closed more than 120 days after your withdrawal, you’re ineligible unless you can prove exceptional circumstances. Gather enrollment records, withdrawal dates, and the official school closure date from DeVry or the Department of Education’s database. Pro tip: If you transferred credits to another institution, you may still qualify if the transfer didn’t result in a comparable program completion.
Step 2: Understand What Loans Are Covered
Closed School Discharge applies exclusively to federal student loans, including Direct Loans, Perkins Loans, and Federal Family Education Loans (FFEL). Private loans are ineligible, though some lenders may offer separate relief programs. If you’ve already consolidated your loans, ensure the underlying debt originated from DeVry during the eligible period. Caution: If you’ve made payments post-closure or transferred loans to a private lender, your eligibility may be affected.
Step 3: Submit the Application Strategically
The discharge process begins with your loan servicer, not DeVry. Contact your servicer (e.g., MOHELA, Nelnet) to request a Closed School Discharge application. Include proof of enrollment or withdrawal dates, as incomplete submissions delay approval. If denied, appeal by providing additional documentation or disputing errors. For instance, if the servicer claims you withdrew outside the 120-day window, submit transcripts or withdrawal receipts to counter their claim.
Step 4: Leverage Additional Protections
Even if you don’t meet the 120-day rule, you may still have options. The Borrower Defense to Repayment program allows discharges for schools that violated state laws, such as DeVry’s 2016 settlement for deceptive advertising. Alternatively, if DeVry’s closure left you without a degree, the Total and Permanent Disability Discharge or Public Service Loan Forgiveness programs could provide alternate pathways. Always consult an attorney or student loan advisor to explore overlapping strategies.
Takeaway: Act Swiftly, Document Thoroughly
Closed School Discharge is a powerful tool, but success hinges on timely action and meticulous record-keeping. Don’t assume ineligibility without reviewing your case against the 120-day rule or other criteria. With DeVry’s history of closures and legal issues, many former students have secured discharges by presenting clear, compelling evidence. Start today—statutes of limitations and policy changes could limit future opportunities.
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Total and Permanent Disability (TPD): Get loans forgiven with documented permanent disability verification
If you're permanently disabled and burdened by DeVry student loans, the Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) discharge program offers a path to financial relief. This federal initiative wipes out your loan debt entirely, but the process demands meticulous documentation and understanding of eligibility criteria.
Let's dissect the TPD discharge, outlining the steps, required evidence, and potential pitfalls to navigate this complex but potentially life-changing program.
Qualifying for TPD Discharge: A Three-Pronged Approach
To qualify for TPD discharge, you must provide irrefutable proof of your permanent disability. This evidence falls into three categories:
- Veterans Affairs (VA) Determination: A VA determination of 100% disability automatically qualifies you for TPD discharge. This streamlined process leverages existing VA documentation, expediting your application.
- Social Security Administration (SSA) Notice: Receiving SSA disability benefits, specifically a Notice of Award for SSDI or SSI based on disability, serves as another qualifying factor. Ensure your SSA documentation explicitly states your disability is expected to last at least 60 months or result in death.
- Physician Certification: If you don't fall under the VA or SSA categories, a physician's certification is required. This involves a licensed physician completing a TPD discharge application form, confirming your inability to engage in substantial gainful activity due to a physical or mental impairment expected to last continuously for at least 60 months or result in death.
Gathering Your Arsenal: Essential Documentation
Regardless of the qualifying method, meticulous documentation is paramount. Gather all relevant medical records, including diagnoses, treatment plans, and physician statements detailing the severity and permanence of your disability. For VA and SSA cases, ensure you have copies of your award letters or notices.
If relying on physician certification, obtain the TPD discharge application form from your loan servicer and have your physician complete it thoroughly, providing detailed explanations and supporting medical evidence.
Navigating the Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Contact Your Loan Servicer: Initiate the process by contacting your DeVry loan servicer. They will provide you with the necessary TPD discharge application forms and guide you through the specific requirements.
- Complete the Application: Carefully fill out the application form, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Attach all required documentation, including medical records, VA or SSA notices, or the physician certification form.
- Submit Your Application: Submit your completed application and supporting documents to your loan servicer. Keep copies of everything for your records.
- Await Review and Decision: The Department of Education will review your application and make a determination. This process can take several months, so be patient.
- Monitor Your Loan Status: During the review period, monitor your loan status through your servicer's online portal or by contacting them directly.
Potential Pitfalls and Proactive Measures
While the TPD discharge program offers a lifeline, be aware of potential hurdles:
- Incomplete Applications: Missing documentation or incomplete forms can delay or even result in denial. Double-check everything before submission.
- Disputed Disability Status: If your disability status is disputed, be prepared to provide additional medical evidence or seek legal assistance.
- Tax Implications: Forgiven debt may be considered taxable income in some cases. Consult a tax professional to understand your specific situation.
Empowering Yourself Through Knowledge
Navigating the TPD discharge process requires diligence and perseverance. By understanding the eligibility criteria, gathering comprehensive documentation, and following the application steps meticulously, you can increase your chances of successfully discharging your DeVry student loans and achieving financial freedom. Remember, seeking assistance from your loan servicer or a qualified professional can be invaluable in navigating this complex process.
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Frequently asked questions
DeVry student loan forgiveness options include the Borrower Defense to Repayment program, which allows borrowers to apply for loan discharge if they were misled by the school, and Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) for those working in qualifying public service jobs. Additionally, closed school discharge may apply if you were enrolled when DeVry closed or withdrew shortly before closure.
To qualify for DeVry Borrower Defense to Repayment, you must submit an application to the U.S. Department of Education proving that DeVry misled you about job placement rates, program accreditation, or other aspects of your education. Evidence such as marketing materials, enrollment agreements, or personal statements can support your claim.
Yes, DeVry student loans can be forgiven through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program if you work full-time for a qualifying employer (e.g., government or nonprofit) and make 120 eligible payments on an income-driven repayment plan. Consolidating your loans into a Direct Loan, if necessary, is required to qualify for PSLF.
