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If you have a Perkins Student Loan you may be eligible for Perkins loan forgiveness. That means you could have your Perkins loan debt partially or fully canceled so that you no longer need to pay it.

Read on to find out how Perkins loan forgiveness works and whether you might qualify.

What Are Perkins Loans?

Student loan borrowers may have federal or private student loans, or a combination of both types. Perkins loans are low-interest subsidized federal loans for students with exceptional financial need.

The federal student loan interest rate on Perkins loans was a fixed 5%. The government covered the interest that accrued on these loans while students were in school.

Perkins Loans are no longer offered — the program ended in 2017. However, borrowers who have Perkins loans are still required to repay them. In certain situations, these borrowers might qualify for certain federal benefits like Perkins loan forgiveness or Perkins loan cancellation to help get out of student loan debt.

Perkins Loan Forgiveness Options

Borrowers may be eligible for Perkins student loan forgiveness if they work full-time in public service jobs such as education, military service, and law enforcement. Here are details about the different federal Perkins loan forgiveness options.

Teaching Service Cancellation

If you teach in a public or nonprofit school, you may be able to get Perkins loan cancellation. Perkins loan cancellation for teachers forgives up to 100% of your Perkins loans if you are a special education teacher, work in a low-income school district, or teach certain subjects, such as math, science, or a foreign language.

If you’re eligible, a percentage of your Perkins loan balance and the interest it accrues will be canceled annually over five years in the following increments: 15% for your first and second years of teaching, 20% for your third and fourth years of service, and 30% for your fifth year of teaching.

You may also qualify for Perkins loan cancellation if you’re a speech pathologist, a librarian, or work in an educational role in a Head Start program and you started working on or after August 14, 2008.

Public Service Cancellation

You may qualify for forgiveness of your Perkins loans if you work in certain nonprofit public service jobs and fields, such as:

•   Child or family services agency: Those employed in an educational job in a child or a family services agency may be eligible for complete loan cancellation after five years of service. Qualifying jobs include working at a prekindergarten or child-care program for students in low-income communities.

•   AmeriCorps VISTA or Peace Corps volunteer: Individuals who serve as VISTA or Peace Corps volunteers for four years may qualify for up to 70% Perkins loan cancellation.

Military Service Cancellation

Members of the military can potentially qualify for Perkins loan forgiveness. Military service members may be eligible for up to 50% loan cancellation for four years of service if their active service ended before August 14, 2008. Those whose active duty began on that date or later might qualify for up to 100% loan cancellation for five years of service.

Law Enforcement and Corrections Officer Cancellation

If you’re a law enforcement officer, correctional officer, or firefighter, you might qualify for up to 100% loan cancellation if you serve five years full-time at an eligible law enforcement agency or federal, state, or local firefighting agency. Firefighters must have started work on or after August 14, 2008.

Recommended: Student Debt by Major

Eligibility Requirements for Forgiveness

The requirements to qualify for Perkins loan forgiveness can be fairly stringent. Generally, you must be employed full-time to be eligible for Perkins loan forgiveness. You’ll also need to meet the following requirements:

•   Elementary or secondary teacher: Teachers (including supervisors, administrators, researchers, and curriculum specialists) may qualify as long as they work full-time for a full academic year or two half-years at different schools within 12 consecutive months. They can also teach part-time at two or more schools. To be eligible, educators must work in a low-income district or service agency in a teacher shortage area.

•   Special education teacher: To qualify, these teachers need to work at a public or nonprofit elementary or secondary school in speech and language pathology or audiology, physical therapy, occupational therapy, psychological and counseling services, or recreational therapy.

•   Preschool or prekindergarten teacher: Eligible educators must work full-time in a prekindergarten or child-care program and they must have started on or after August 14, 2008.

•   Law enforcement, correctional officer, or first responder: These individuals must work five years in their respective fields. Firefighters need to have started on or after August 14, 2008.

•   Attorney: Lawyers who work full-time for five years for a federal public or community defender organization may qualify for Perkins loan forgiveness. They must have started on or after August 14, 2008.

•   Military: Members of the military may be eligible for up to 50% loan cancellation for four years of military service if their active service ended before August 14, 2008, or up to 100% loan cancellation for five years of service if their active service duty began on or after August 14, 2008.

•   Health care: If you’re a full-time nurse or medical technician, or work with people with disabilities, you may qualify for up to 100% Perkins loan cancellation.

Forgiveness Application Process

If you believe you qualify for forgiveness, you’ll need to apply for cancellation or discharge of your Perkins loans. To do this, contact the school that originally issued your Perkins loan or reach out to your loan servicer. They will provide the forms and instructions for the type of cancellation or student loan discharge you may be eligible for. Be aware that you will need to show proof that you work in a qualifying public service job.

Partial vs. Full Cancellation

Perkins loans may be forgiven up to 100% of the amount owed, or up to 70% or 50%. Generally speaking, those employed in certain public service occupations as noted above, who started working before August 14, 2008, may qualify for 50% forgiveness rather than up to 100%. Individuals who worked for four years as AmeriCorps VISTA or Peace Corps volunteers may be eligible for up to 70% Perkins loan cancellation. Check with your loan servicer about the specific details of your forgiveness situation.

If you are eligible for 100% forgiveness, your debt will be forgiven in the following increments over five years, as long as you remain employed in your qualifying job:

•   15% of the original loan amount for first and second years

•   20% of the original loan amount for third and fourth years

•   30% of the original loan amount for the fifth year.

Common Challenges in Obtaining Forgiveness

Obtaining forgiveness can be a demanding process. First, you must meet all the eligibility requirements to qualify. And being approved for forgiveness may take months. In the meantime, you will need to keep paying your Perkins loans to avoid missing payments. If you default on your loans, you may not be eligible for forgiveness.

Perkins Loan Discharge Options

If Perkins loan forgiveness isn’t an option for you, you might qualify for Perkins loan discharge in certain circumstances. These circumstances include:

•   Bankruptcy

•   Total and permanent disability

•   Death

•   Your school closed while you were getting your degree

If one of these situations applies to you, you may be eligible for total and immediate discharge of your Perkins loans. Contact your school’s financial aid office or your loan servicer for the forms and instructions to apply for discharge.

Alternatives If You Don’t Qualify for Forgiveness

If you are not eligible for Perkins loan forgiveness, there are other repayment options as well as forgiveness and assistance programs you can explore. Here are some alternatives to Perkins loan forgiveness.

Income-Driven Repayment Plans

Federal income-driven repayment (IDR) plans base your payments on your income and family size and often result in a lower monthly payment. On these plans, your loans may be forgiven after 20 or 25 years of qualifying payments.

While Perkins loans are not eligible for IDR plans, if you consolidate your Perkins loans with a Federal Direct Consolidation Loan, you can then enroll in an IDR plan.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Under this program, if you work full-time for a government or nonprofit organization, you may be eligible for forgiveness after 120 qualifying payments under a qualifying repayment plan, such as IDR.

Just as with IDR plans, Perkins loans are not eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness unless you consolidate them with a Federal Direct Consolidation Loan.

Student Loan Repayment Assistance Programs

Some states and various organizations offer student loan repayment assistance programs (LRAPs) for those who work in high-need occupations and shortage areas. Check with your state or any professional organizations you belong to to see what LRAPs they might have and if you may qualify.

Student Loan Refinancing

When you refinance student loans, you replace your old loans with a new private loan that ideally has lower rates and more favorable terms if you qualify for them. That could help make your payments more manageable. However, refinancing federal student loans means that you’ll lose access to federal benefits, so make sure you won’t need these programs before moving ahead.

Recommended: Student Loan Payment Calculator

The Takeaway

Borrowers may qualify for Perkins loan forgiveness if they work full-time in certain public service jobs and meet other eligibility requirements. If approved, they may be able to have up to 100% of their Perkins loans forgiven.

If forgiveness isn’t an option for you, there are alternatives that could help you repay your Perkins loans, such as an income-driven repayment plan or a student loan repayment assistance program. Another method to consider is student loan refinancing, especially if you can qualify for a lower interest rate or more favorable terms. Explore all the options available to make an informed decision about the best choice for you.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.

FAQ

What are the eligibility requirements for Perkins loan forgiveness?

To be eligible for Perkins loan forgiveness, borrowers must work full-time in certain public service jobs such as teaching, military service, health care, and law enforcement, for five years, or in certain nonprofit jobs for four years. In addition, each occupation and field has specific requirements. Check with the school that issued your Perkins loan or your loan servicer for more information.

How long does it take to have Perkins loans forgiven?

In most cases, you’ll need to work full-time for five years in specific public service jobs before your Perkins loans are forgiven. Typically, the loans will be forgiven in the following increments: 15% of the original loan amount in the first and second years, 20% in the third and fourth years, and 30% in the fifth year.

Is Perkins loan forgiveness taxable?

Generally speaking, Perkins loan forgiveness is currently not taxable on a federal level. However, that may change. While forgiven student loan debt is typically considered taxable by the IRS, the American Rescue Plan of 2021 made forgiven debt temporarily exempt from federal income taxes. But this federal tax-exempt status only applies to loans forgiven between January 1, 2021 and December 31, 2025.

Photo credit: iStock/Milko

SoFi Student Loan Refinance
SoFi Student Loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). SoFi Student Loan Refinance Loans are private loans and do not have the same repayment options that the federal loan program offers, or may become available, such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, PAYE or SAVE. Additional terms and conditions apply. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal.

SOSLR-Q324-030

If you’re an animal lover, a career as a veterinarian can be deeply rewarding. However, you may end up with significant student loan debt after earning your Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM). According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), veterinary school borrowers owe an average of $179,505 upon graduation.

Debt of this magnitude can take a long time to pay off, but there are programs to help make repayment more manageable. Here’s a closer look at the average vet school debt and costs, plus tips on how to manage your veterinary student loan debt.

Overview of Veterinary Education Costs

Veterinary school typically spans four years after an individual earns an undergraduate degree and costs an average of more than $200,000 for in-state residents and $275,000 for out-of-state students, according to the Veterinary Information Network Foundation.

The American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMA) found that resident four-year tuition ranges from $78,588 to $259,720. While these figures reflect tuition rates, there are additional costs involved with paying for vet school. These include room, board, transportation, books, and other living expenses.

Non-resident total cost can range anywhere from $235,345 to $480,571, according to the AAVMA.

Current Average Student Loan Debt for Veterinarians

Given the high cost of veterinary school tuition, it’s not surprising that vet school debt reaches well into six-figure territory.

National Average Student Debt Figures

The national average student debt among all veterinary school graduates is $147,258. Among veterinary school graduates who took out student loans, the average veterinary student debt is higher at $179,505.

For some of these graduates, student loan refinancing might be an option worth considering to help make repaying your vet school debt more manageable, especially if you can qualify for lower interest rates and better loan terms.

Comparison to Other Medical Professions

While the average veterinary student debt is high, it’s not the highest among medical professions. Here’s how veterinary debt compares to the average debt of a bachelor’s degree and other medical programs.

Recommended: Student Debt by Major

Factors Influencing Veterinary Student Loan Debt

The main factors influencing the average student debt for veterinarians are the high cost of veterinary school, the price of room and board, and in-state vs. out-of-state tuition rates.

Cost of Veterinary School

Four years of veterinary school can cost more than $200,000 for in-state residents and over $275,000 for out-of-state residents. The majority of veterinary students (about 82%) borrow student loans to cover costs.

Some factors that can influence how much you’ll pay to become a veterinarian include:

•   In-state vs. out-of-state tuition rates: Tuition rates are lower at public veterinary schools for in-state residents and higher for out-of-state residents. The highest costs are generally at private veterinary schools.

•   Cost of living in your location: Along with tuition and fees, you’ll have to factor in living expenses. These expenses could be a lot higher in an urban area than a rural one and can vary widely depending on where your school is located.

•   Room and board: Costs for housing and food are another major expense. You might save money by commuting or sharing an apartment with roommates, as well as by buying your own groceries over a university meal plan.

•   Grant and scholarship availability: Grants and scholarships can help defray the costs of veterinary school and don’t have to be repaid, but they can be competitive. Apply to as many opportunities as you can to try to access this gift aid for school. Don’t forget to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which gives you access to federal financial aid.

•   Personal savings: If you have savings you can put toward veterinary school, such as money in a 529 college savings plan, you may not have to borrow as much in student loans.

Trends in Veterinary Student Loan Debt

Although veterinary school debt is high, it’s lower than it was a few years ago. The average student debt for all graduates is down by more than 6% from 2020. Among student loan borrowers, it’s down 5% from 2020.

Debt-to-income (DTI) ratios have also improved somewhat, meaning that veterinary graduates are slightly better able now to pay off their student loans. The average debt-to-income ratio was 1.44 for 2022 graduates who started working full-time, a more manageable DTI than the 1.7 ratio among the 2021 cohort.

Impact of Student Loan Debt on Veterinarians

Although student loan debt can be a major financial burden for veterinarians, it’s not their top motivating factor when choosing an offer of employment. According to an AVMA survey, most new graduates (85%) said they chose the job they did for its mentorship opportunities.

After that, the top reasons for selecting an employment offer were location, people, and compensation.

Career Choices and Specializations

Veterinarians have good prospects for employment after graduation, with 95.7% receiving an offer for a job or position in advanced education after leaving school. Most graduates go into private practice, followed by internships and then public practice.

•   Private practice: 68.9%

•   Internships: 24.6%

•   Public practice: 2.4%

Among private practice veterinarians, most chose to work with companion animals (56%), followed by mixed animal practice (9%), food animal practice (2%), and equine practice (1%).
The average starting compensation was $124,295 among veterinary graduates who got a full-time job.

This is how much a veterinarian makes on average, broken down by job type:

•   Private practice: $125,416

•   Public practice: $87,417

•   Residencies: $46,186

•   Internships: $53,266

Some veterinarians also scored additional compensation in the form of signing bonuses and other benefits:

Strategies for Managing Veterinary Student Loan Debt

If you owe veterinary student loans, here are some techniques to make it easier to repay your debt.

•   Explore loan forgiveness and repayment assistance programs: You may qualify for student loan assistance from a federal or state program, depending on where you work. For instance, the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program is available to vets working at shelters, zoos, aquariums, as military vets, or in other public service jobs. The USDA’s Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program offers up to $25,000 in student loan help each year for three years to vets working in shortage areas. This student loan forgiveness guide can help you discover other forgiveness opportunities that may be available to you.

Some states also have student loan repayment assistance programs (LRAPs) for veterinarians who work in a high-need area. Unlike federal programs, state LRAPs may offer assistance toward both federal and private student loans.

•   Compare repayment plan options: If you owe federal student loans, you have several repayment plans to choose from, including the standard 10-year plan, the extended 25-year plan, and income-driven repayment plans. Income-driven plans can be helpful if you need to adjust your monthly payments in accordance with your income. They can also end in loan forgiveness if you still owe a balance after 20 or 25 years.

•   Make extra loan payments to get out of debt faster: If you can afford it, making extra payments on your veterinary student loan debt can speed up repayment. It can also save you money on interest, which can be especially helpful now because federal student loan interest rates have increased over the past four years. The rates are higher for the 2024-2025 school year than they have been in previous years.

•   Look into student loan refinancing: Refinancing your student loans may help you get a better interest rate if you qualify, which could save you a significant amount of money on your loans. You’ll also get the chance to combine multiple loans into one loan and select new repayment terms. Keep in mind, though, that refinancing federal loans turns them private, meaning you’ll forfeit access to federal benefits and programs.

The Takeaway

Working as a veterinarian is an exciting career choice with solid employment prospects, but earning your degree comes with costly tuition and potentially high student loan debt. If you end up borrowing student loans, consider strategies for managing your debt, such as income-driven repayment, student loan assistance programs, or refinancing student loans for better rates or terms if you qualify for them.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.

FAQ

What is the current average student loan debt for veterinarians?

The current average student debt for veterinarians is $147,258 among all graduates and $179,505 among graduates who took out student loans.

How long does it typically take to repay student loans for veterinary school?

It can take a decade or longer to repay student loans for veterinary school. The standard repayment plan spans 10 years, and alternative repayment options may last 20 or 25 years. You can look into loan forgiveness programs and loan repayment programs for help repaying your loans if you’re eligible.

Are there loan forgiveness or repayment programs specifically for veterinarians?

There are loan repayment programs specifically for veterinarians. The USDA’s Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program is a national program that offers up to $25,000 in student loan repayment each year to vets who work in a shortage area for at least three years. Some states also offer student loan repayment assistance programs to qualifying veterinarians. Check with your state to see what’s available.

Photo credit: iStock/Mr Vito

SoFi Student Loan Refinance
SoFi Student Loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). SoFi Student Loan Refinance Loans are private loans and do not have the same repayment options that the federal loan program offers, or may become available, such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, PAYE or SAVE. Additional terms and conditions apply. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal.

SOSLR-Q324-029

Perkins loans, which were offered through the Federal Perkins Loan Program, are low-interest subsidized federal student loans for students with high financial need.

The Perkins Loan Program was discontinued in 2017. While these loans are no longer offered, borrowers who have Perkins loans are still required to repay them. These borrowers may also qualify for certain federal benefits like Perkins loan forgiveness.

Read on to learn more about repaying Perkins loans, federal Perkins loan forgiveness, plus current financial aid options to help make college more affordable.

Overview of Federal Perkins Loans

Students may choose to take out federal or private student loans to help pay for college. A type of federal student loan, Perkins loans were unique in that they were issued by schools. Federal Perkins Loans were intended for students with exceptional financial need and had a fixed 5% interest rate. Perkins loans were also subsidized, which means the government covered the interest that accrued while a borrower was in school.

The Perkins loan program allowed students to borrow the following amounts:

•   $5,500 a year with a cumulative limit of $27,500 for undergraduates

•   $8,000 per year for graduate students with a lifetime maximum of $60,000, including undergraduate Perkins loan debt

Repayment of Federal Perkins Loans

Federal Perkins loan borrowers are required to repay their Perkins loans plus interest within 10 years. That’s how college financial aid works in this particular instance.

Perkins loan borrowers had a nine-month grace period after graduating, leaving school, or dropping below half-time status before they needed to start repayment. Schools typically require monthly, bimonthly, or quarterly payments on Perkins loans.

These loans offer forgiveness and cancellation programs. Borrowers may be eligible for Perkins loan forgiveness if they work full-time in public service. Forgiveness through public service is available to those who hold such jobs as:

•   Child or family services workers

•   Educators

•   Firefighters

•   Law enforcement officers

•   Nurses

•   Members of the U.S. armed services

For eligible public service workers, up to 100% of their Federal Perkins loans may be forgiven over a five-year period. For more information on forgiveness, check out this student loan forgiveness guide.

If forgiveness isn’t an option, borrowers might qualify for cancellation of their Perkins loans in certain circumstances, including:

•   Bankruptcy

•   Total and permanent disability

•   Death

•   If your school closed while you were getting your degree

If one of these situations applies to you, you may be eligible for total and immediate discharge of your Perkins loans.

To apply for Perkins loan cancellation or forgiveness, contact your school’s financial aid office. They should be able to give you the appropriate forms to complete. If the school transferred your loans to a loan servicer, you can reach out directly to the servicer.

If you are not eligible for forgiveness or cancellation, you may want to consider the option of student loan refinancing. When you refinance student loans, you replace your old loans with a new loan that ideally has lower rates and more favorable terms if you qualify for them.

Recommended: Student Loan Payment Calculator

Comparison with Other Federal Student Loans

Although Perkins loans are no longer available, there are several other types of federal loans that may help you cover the cost of college. Here’s how these loans compare to Perkins loans:

•   Direct Subsidized Loans: Undergraduate students with financial need may be eligible for Direct Subsidized Loans. The school determines how much they can borrow with these loans based on the student’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Like Perkins loans, the federal government subsidizes Direct Subsidized Loans by paying the interest on them while the borrower is in school and during the six-month grace period after graduation.

For the 2024-2025 school year, federal student loan interest rates are 6.53% for undergraduate students. That’s higher than the 5% interest rates on Perkins loans.

•   Direct Unsubsidized Loan: Undergraduate, graduate, and professional students are eligible for these loans, which are not based on financial need. Unlike Perkins loans, the interest on Direct Unsubsidized loans accrues while the borrower is in school and during the six-month grace period afterward. The borrower is responsible for paying that accrued interest.

•   Direct PLUS Loans: These loans are for parents who borrow money for dependent undergraduate students, and for eligible graduate and professional students. Unlike most federal loans, Direct PLUS loans require a credit check.

Current Status of the Federal Perkins Loan Program

The Federal Perkins Loan Program was discontinued in 2017 after Congress failed to renew it. Even though these loans are no longer available, borrowers who have Perkins loans must repay them. Alternatively, they can apply for forgiveness or cancellation of Perkins loans to help with getting out of student loan debt if they are eligible.

Alternatives for Students

Even though borrowers can no longer take out Perkins loans, there are a number of other financial aid options for college students. These include:

•   Federal Direct Loans: These loans offer helpful benefits for borrowers, including income-driven repayment and some forgiveness options. And as noted above, with Direct Subsidized Loans, the federal government pays the interest on the loans while the borrower is in school.

•   Scholarships: This type of aid is considered gift aid because it does not need to be repaid. Scholarships can come from a wide variety of sources, including your state, certain businesses, and national and local organizations. Explore the different scholarships available to see what you might be eligible for.

•   Grants: Many grants are need-based, and they typically do not need to be repaid. Grants may be available from the federal government or your state government.

•   Private student loans: These loans are offered through private lenders, including banks and online lenders. The repayment terms and benefits vary from lender to lender, and the interest rates on these loans may be fixed or variable.

A lender will typically do a credit check and review your financial history before approving you for a private loan, so it may be beneficial to have a student loan cosigner in order to qualify. It’s also important to be aware that private loans do not provide access to federal income-driven repayment plans and forgiveness programs.

Recommended: Scholarship Search Tool

The Takeaway

Federal Perkins loans are no longer available, but borrowers who have these loans must still repay them. If you have a Perkins loan you’re working to pay off, you can look into Perkins loan forgiveness and cancellation to see if you might be eligible.

Another option to consider is refinancing your Perkins loan, especially if you can qualify for a lower interest rate or better terms. Refinancing these loans means you’ll no longer be eligible for federal Perkins loan forgiveness, however, so make sure you won’t need to take advantage of that program.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.

FAQ

Who is eligible for Federal Perkins Loans?

Federal Perkins loans are no longer available because the program was discontinued in 2017. However, there are other types of student loans you may be eligible for, including Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, as well as private student loans.

What is the interest rate on Federal Perkins Loans?

All Federal Perkins loans have a fixed interest rate of 5%. In addition, Perkins loans were subsidized, which means that the federal government paid the interest on the loans while borrowers were in school.

Are Federal Perkins Loans still available for new borrowers?

No, Federal Perkins Loans are no longer available. However, there are several other federal loan options for new borrowers, including Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans, that come with certain benefits such as access to federal programs such as income-driven repayment plans.

Photo credit: iStock/cagkansayin

SoFi Student Loan Refinance
SoFi Student Loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). SoFi Student Loan Refinance Loans are private loans and do not have the same repayment options that the federal loan program offers, or may become available, such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, PAYE or SAVE. Additional terms and conditions apply. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal.

SOSLR-Q324-028

Finding the right financial aid can make all the difference when pursuing higher education. For Hawaiian students, there are numerous scholarships available for the 2024-25 academic year, specifically designed to support your educational journey.

Whether you’re seeking aid based on academic performance, financial need, or cultural background, these scholarships offer valuable opportunities. If you have a Native Hawaiian lineage, here are 15 prominent scholarships you may want to apply for.

Scholarships for Native Hawaiians

Scholarships are essentially free money from different organizations, groups, or institutions to be used toward your education. Since these are awards, the money doesn’t need to be paid back. They can help make affording college easier and may even eliminate the need to apply for federal or private student loans.

Below you’ll find some of the more commonly touted Native Hawaiian scholarship opportunities. However, this list is only partial, and you can find others through the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, and by using SoFi’s scholarship search tool. You can also register for a chance to win a $2,500 SoFi Scholarship simply by entering your name and email address.

Here are the top 15 scholarships you can consider applying for if you are of Hawaiian ancestry:

1. Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce Scholarship

Sponsored by the Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce, this scholarship is geared toward students pursuing study in the area of business administration at an accredited two- or four-year college institution in Hawaii or the continental U.S.

Applicants for this must exhibit interests in the Hawaiian language, culture, and history, and have a commitment to contribute to the greater community.

2. Native Hawaiian Health Scholarship Program

The Native Hawaiian Health Scholarship Program (NHHSP) is a merit scholarship given to students seeking a degree in the field of healthcare. Some of the health professions include physician, nurse, dentist, clinical psychologist, dietitian or nutritionist, and social worker, among others. It’s important to note the eligible health professions may change each year.

Native Hawaiian students enrolled full-time at an accredited college or university in Hawaii can apply. Recipients who receive an NHHSP award are obligated to work full-time in medically underserved areas in Hawaii for a minimum of two years and a maximum of four.

Along with covering the student’s tuition and other education-related costs, the scholarship provides a monthly stipend for their full-time work requirement in their health care discipline.

3. Second Century Scholarship

The Second Century Scholarship is an award available to all Native Hawaiians attending any of the 10 campuses and educational centers within the University of Hawaii system. Since the scholarship is need-based, students who apply need to show they qualify for the requisite amount of financial aid.

Award amounts differ and are determined by the applicant’s financial need and the availability of funds. Native Hawaiian students can apply for financial aid through their campus financial aid offices. All regular financial aid deadlines apply.

4. Jean Ileialoha Beniamina Scholarship for Ni‘ihau Students Fund

A need-based scholarship, the Jean Ileialoha Beniamina Scholarship for Ni‘ihau Students Fund is for students who reside on either Kaua‘i or Ni‘ihau Island. Current Ni‘ihau residents or Kaua‘i residents who are one or two generations removed from Ni‘ihau Island are given preference, along with those students who are proficient or fluent in the Hawaiian language.

5. Blossom Kalama Evans Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Blossom Kalama Evans Memorial Scholarship Fund is sponsored by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, which has over $7 million dollars a year available for scholarships from more than 300 funds.

College juniors, seniors, or those going on to grad school can apply. Applicants must be a resident of Hawaii and attend college in the state. Preference is given to those students who major in Native Hawaiian or Hawaiian studies.

6. Prince Kūhiō Hawaiian Civic Club Scholarship

The Prince Kūhiō Hawaiian Civic Club, an organization dedicated to the preservation and perpetuation of Hawaiian values, culture, and education, sponsors scholarships open to a variety of students pursuing degrees or certificates.

Preference for these awards are given to Hawaiian students that have engaged in community service or volunteer work, along with individuals pursuing degrees in the Hawaiian language, culture, studies, journalism, or education.

In addition, there is a vocational scholarship program for students who live in Hawaii. Applicants need to be enrolled at least part-time in a vocational degree program, including associate degrees, or a certification program on a list of their approved educational institutions and approved programs in Hawaii.

7. Warren Nakupuna Ah Loo Memorial Scholarship

This merit-based prize, named for the late civil servant Warren Nakupuna Ah Loo, is funded by the Nakupuna Foundation, a nonprofit committed to the advancement of the Native Hawaiian community.

Created for high school graduates or anticipated graduates from one of Hawaii’s Kamehameha Schools, the Warren Nakupuna Ah Loo Memorial Scholarship is designed to support students attending college anywhere in the U.S. who are pursuing studies in STEM (science, technology, engineering, or math).

Recommended: 30 College Scholarships for Minority Students

8. Rosemary & Nellie Ebrie Scholarship

This scholarship, also sponsored by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, is for Native Hawaiians who were born and currently reside on the island of Hawai‘i, otherwise known as the Big Island.

Applications for the Rosemary & Nellie Ebrie Scholarship are open to undergraduate and graduate students who demonstrate financial need.

9. Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Program

Asian & Pacific Islander American (APIA) Scholars offers a range of scholarships for students who identify as Asian, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander. These awards are for undergraduate students who are already attending a U.S. accredited college or university, and range from $2,500 for one-year awards to $20,000 for multi-year awards.

APIA scholarships give special focus to those students who live at or below the poverty level and are first-generation college students. Applicants also must be a citizen, national, or legal permanent resident of the U.S.

Recommended: FAFSA Grants and Other Types of Financial Aid

How Do I Know if I’m Eligible for Native Hawaiian Scholarships?

The term Native Hawaiian refers to a person with origins in the aboriginal, indigenous people who settled in Hawaii, founded the Hawaiian nation, and exercised sovereignty over their territory. A Native Hawaiian person is also considered to be a Pacific Islander, which refers to those people from Polynesian, Micronesian, and Melanesian cultural backgrounds.

It’s important to note people who are born in Hawaii but don’t have any ancestral links aren’t considered to be Native Hawaiians.

Scholarships for Native Hawaiian Women

If you’re a Native Hawaiian woman, you have the opportunity to apply for scholarships specifically created to support your educational pursuits. These scholarships include:

1. Ida M. Pope Memorial Scholarship

Women of Hawaiian ancestry can apply for the Ida M. Pope Memorial Scholarship through the Hawai‘i Community Foundation. This scholarship is set up to benefit a female student pursuing a career in the field of health, education, or STEM. Applicants need to demonstrate financial need, be a resident of Hawaii, and enroll as a full-time student.

2. Ka‘ehu Scholarship Fund

Another women-only scholarship offered through Hawai‘i Community Foundation, the Ka‘ehu Scholarship Fund, is for female-identifying students working toward earning an undergraduate or graduate degree.

The need-based award gives preference to women of Hawaiian ancestry that identify as LGBT and have participated in community service, clubs, and/or high school athletics.

3. AAUW Honolulu Branch Education Funds

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) promotes equity and education for women and girls. The Honolulu branch of AAUW offers need-based scholarships for Hawaiian female undergraduate students who already have some college credits.

The AAUW Honolulu Undergraduate Scholarship is for women who have already completed some college (a minimum of 12 credits), but had to halt their education for certain life circumstances. For this reason, the application is open to those who are 21 or older.

Female students must already be accepted or enrolled as a full- or part-time undergraduate in a college, community college, university in Hawaii, or online program from a regionally accredited public or private not-for-profit educational institution. Applicants need to be a Hawaiian resident and demonstrate financial need.

AAUW Honolulu also has graduate scholarships that are offered and administered through the Hawai‘i Community Foundation.

4. The Betty Bell Scholarship for Kauai Women

Established in 2020, the Betty Bell Scholarship for Kauai Women benefits women from the island of Kauai who demonstrate a strong work ethic and may not normally have the opportunity to go to college.

The prize is named after Betty J. Bell, the first licensed pharmacist on the island of Kauai, who was a strong advocate for women, especially for those who wanted to achieve their career dreams. Her namesake scholarship prioritizes working mothers, as well as women who are returning learners who had started college but didn’t get to complete their degree.

The scholarship is administered through the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, and applicants must be a resident of Kauai Island and demonstrate financial need.

5. Ka’iulani Home for Girls Trust Scholarship

A need-based scholarship, the Ka’iulani Home for Girls Trust Scholarship supports female students of Hawaiian ancestry who are full-time college freshman or sophomores.

Women must be of Hawaiian ancestry, residents of Hawaii, and attend an accredited, two- or four-year, not-for-profit college or university within the Aloha state.

Recommended: 10 Popular Scholarships for Women

Can I Get a Scholarship for Being Hawaiian?

Yes, there are many scholarships for those who are of Hawaiian ancestry as well as for individuals who are Hawaiian born and residents of the state.

How Do I Get a Hawai’i Promise Scholarship?

If you are planning to attend one of the University of Hawaii’s seven community colleges, you can apply for a Hawai’i Promise Scholarship. This scholarship offers money from the state of Hawaii, along with the University of Hawaii, to provide qualified students with all of their direct education costs (tuition, books, fees) that aren’t met by other forms of financial aid.

In 2023, almost $3.8 million was awarded to 1,774 eligible students in the UH Community College system, with the average award per student equaling $2,142.

To qualify for a Hawai’i Promise Scholarship, you’ll need to be enrolled in at least 6 credits per semester at a UH Community College, be a resident of Hawaii, and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You’ll then be notified by your campus if you’re eligible for the scholarship.

Recommended: Important FAFSA Deadlines to Know

What Is Native Hawaiian Exemption Tuition?

Students who can show proof of their Native Hawaiian ancestry may be able to get a Native Hawaiian Tuition Waiver. Those who apply must have a financial need based on information given on the FAFSA form.

The waiver applies to part of your tuition (not fees) and you must be at least a part-time student (6 credits) and attending an institution within the University of Hawaii system.

Recommended: What Is Need-Based Financial Aid?

The Takeaway

There are a multitude of scholarship opportunities available for Native Hawaiians, aka people who are of Hawaiian ancestry. Scholarships for Native Hawaiians can be need- or merit-based and are open to undergraduate, graduate, vocational students, and community college attendees. Since competition for scholarships can be fierce, being able to apply for specific scholarships can give a Native Hawaiian student a major leg up when it comes to paying for college.

Other ways to pay for college include cash savings, grants, federal student loans, and private student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

If I was born and live in Hawaii, does that make me a Native Hawaaian?

Not necessarily. A Native Hawaiian is a person who is a descendant of one of the original Polynesian settlers in Hawaii. You can be a Native Hawaiian and not live in Hawaii, or even not have been born there, but you must have indigenous ancestry.

Do you have to live in Hawaii to be eligible for a scholarship?

It depends. Some Native Hawaiian-specific scholarships require the applicant to be a Hawaiian resident, but it’s not always a prerequisite.

How much does it cost to go to school in Hawaii?

The average cost for tuition and fees for a four-year college program is $7,723 for in-state students and $20,995 for out-of-state students. Tuition for private colleges or universities in Hawaii clocks in at $17,121.

Photo credit: iStock/davidf

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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Veterans have access to various scholarship and grant opportunities that can lessen the financial burden of pursuing ongoing education. These unique financial aid programs are sometimes also available to military families, which may include dependents or spouses of veterans.

If you’re a veteran who’s enrolling in college or have a dependent in your family who’s collegebound, we’ve created this guide to scholarships and grants for veterans to get you started.

Best Scholarships for Military Veterans

There are many scholarship programs available for military veterans and their dependents, all of which have different eligibility and application requirements. Below are just a handful of scholarships for veterans, or their dependents or spouses, that offer awards that are $2,000 or higher.

•   Pat Tillman Foundation Scholarship: The Pat Tillman Foundation Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship program that’s available to active duty and veteran military service members, including their current or surviving spouses. The average recipient receives approximately $10,000 per academic year and awards are renewable as long as you maintain eligibility requirements.

•   Folds of Honor Scholarship: The Folds of Honor Scholarship is available to dependents and spouses of a qualifying service member. Dependents must be enrolled in an accredited institution, a certificate- or license-granting technical, or a trade school program. The scholarship offers $5,000 per academic year, which is disbursed in amounts up to $2,500 per term. Awards are renewable, but recipients must reapply for each academic year.

•   AMVETS Scholarships: AMVETS Scholarships are a need-based program that’s open to veterans, active duty, and National Guard and Reserve service members and their families. The maximum award is $12,000. Applicants must be studying toward an undergraduate degree and meet other eligibility requirements.

•   Military Order of the Purple Heart Scholarship: Recipients of a Purple Heart who are members of the organization and their families — including spouses, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren — can apply for this scholarship program. Scholarship amounts vary each year and are based on available funding.

Another scholarship option is SoFi’s scholarship sweepstakes. It offers one $2,500 scholarship award per month over a 12-month period. Entry is available to SoFi members who are at least 17 years old and enrolled in an accredited, nonprofit, Title IV four-year college or university in the U.S. You can enter once per monthly scholarship period. Awards are sent directly to the winner’s school and can be used toward your cost of attendance.

Grants for Veterans

Grants are another type of college financial aid which doesn’t need to be repaid. Some grants require applicants to meet specific eligibility criteria. If your military family fits the program’s application requirements, a grant award can help make college costs more accessible.

Below are two grants veterans or their family members may qualify for.

The Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant

The Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant is a federal grant that’s offered by the U.S. Department of Education. It’s uniquely available to students whose parent or guardian died in active duty while serving in Iraq or Afghanistan, post-9/11. The available award is equal to the maximum Federal Pell Grant during the award year; in 2024-25 the amount is $7,395.

To qualify, veteran dependents must meet the Federal Pell Grant eligibility requirements but must not have received a Federal Pell Grant award in the same year. Additionally, recipients must have been under 24 years old or at least a part-time college student at the time of their parent or guardian death.

General Henry H. Arnold Education Grant

The General Henry H. Arnold Education Grant is provided by the Air Force Aid Society (AFAS). Children under 24 years old who are dependents of qualifying U.S. Air Force or U.S. Space Force members, as well as legally married spouses of Air Force or Space Force service members, can apply. Award amounts vary based on the recipient’s financial need.

Applicants must have graduated high school and be enrolled in an undergraduate program at an accredited school that participates in federal aid programs. You must maintain a cumulative minimum GPA of 2.0 and not be a graduate or professional student, veteran, or military branch member, including the National guard or Reserves.

Veterans Affairs Educational Benefits

Veterans have earned a slew of education benefits that can help them — and under some programs, their families — financially pursue higher education or career training. The list of programs you might have access to through Veterans Affairs (VA) include:

•   Montgomery GI Bill for Active Duty

•   Montgomery GI Bill for Selected Reserve

•   Post-9/11 GI Bill

•   Reserve Educational Assistance Program

•   Post-Vietnam era Education Assistance Program

•   National Call to Service

•   Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance

Depending on your service background, you might be eligible for multiple VA education benefit programs. Additionally, you can receive financial support to help pay for books and supplies, test fees for licenses or certifications, national exam fees, and more.

Recommended: What Are Student Loans for Military Dependents?

Grants for Active Duty Servicemembers

Financial aid grants aren’t just for veterans and their families. Service members can also apply for grant programs while in active duty.

One option to explore is the Federal Pell Grant, which is available to undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional financial need and are enrolled in a U.S. school. As a federal financial aid program, applying for a Pell Grant only takes submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If you qualify, the maximum Pell Grant award for the 2024-25 academic year is $7,395, though this award might vary year over year.

Recommended: How to Complete the FAFSA Step by Step

Can I Get a Scholarship if My Grandfather Was in the Military?

GI Bill benefits are reserved for the service member’s education or that of their spouse or children. However, grandchildren of military service members also have access to some scholarships for veterans.

For example, the AMVETS Scholarship is also available to grandchildren of veterans and active duty U.S. military members. Grandchildren of active duty National Guard or Reserves members are also eligible.

What Qualifies You as a Veteran for FAFSA?

Unlike the criteria for veteran status under the VA, the FAFSA defines veterans as a service member who served in active duty for a minimum of one day and was released.

The condition for release must not be dishonorable discharge. Time spent by service members in basic training — except those in the National Guard and Reservists — also qualifies as active duty under the FAFSA.

The Takeaway

Utilizing your VA education benefits, including all eligible GI Bill benefits, is the first step you can take to help pay for college costs. Applying for scholarships for veterans, or for dependents or spouses of veterans, can make higher education or career training accessible for you and your family.

In addition to military scholarships, you can apply for traditional scholarships and grants to help pay for college. You can also apply for federal student loans and private student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

Does the VA offer college scholarships?

Yes, the VA offers college scholarships through programs like the Post-9/11 GI Bill and Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA). These scholarships help cover tuition and education costs for veterans, active duty service members, and their dependents, providing financial support for higher education and career advancement opportunities.

Can veterans apply for FAFSA?

Yes, veterans can apply for the FAFSA. In fact, some grants and scholarships for veterans require a submitted FAFSA for the award year as part of their application requirements.

What is it called when the VA pays for college?

The VA benefit that pays for service members’ college and training expenses is called the GI Bill. The Department of Veteran Affairs website offers a helpful GI Bill Comparison Tool that lets you see and compare GI Benefits across approved institutions.

Photo credit: iStock/SDI Productions

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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