Student loans are a common way to finance higher education, but they can also be a heavy burden for many graduates. According to the Institute for College Access & Success, 62% of four-year college graduates in 2019 had student loan debt with an average balance of $28,950. If you are struggling to repay your loans, you may be looking for ways to reduce or eliminate your debt.
One option is to apply for scholarships that are specifically designed to pay off student loans. These scholarships are also known as grants or loan forgiveness programs, and they typically require you to meet certain criteria or perform certain services in exchange for paying off a portion or all of your debt. Unlike loans, scholarships do not have to be repaid, so they can save you a lot of money in the long run.
In this article, we will list 20 scholarships that can help you pay off your student loans, along with their eligibility requirements, award amounts, and application deadlines. Some of these scholarships are open to students who have already graduated, while others are for current students or prospective students. Some of these scholarships are for federal loans, while others are for private loans. Some of these scholarships are for specific professions, while others are for general fields of study.
We will divide the scholarships into four categories: federal, state, private, and profession-based. Within each category, we will rank the scholarships from the highest to the lowest award amount. We will also provide links to the official websites of the scholarships, where you can find more information and apply online.
Federal Scholarships
Federal scholarships are funded by the U.S. government and are available for borrowers who have federal student loans, such as Direct Loans, Perkins Loans, or FFEL Loans. These scholarships usually require you to work in a public service or high-need area for a certain period of time, after which your loans will be forgiven or reduced. Here are some of the most generous federal scholarships that can help you pay off your student loans:
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): This program forgives the remaining balance of your federal student loans after you make 120 qualifying monthly payments while working full-time for a qualifying employer, such as a government agency or a non-profit organization. The amount of forgiveness depends on your loan balance and payment plan, but it can be up to 100% of your debt. You must apply for PSLF after you complete the required payments and service. There is no deadline to apply, but you must submit an Employment Certification Form every year or whenever you change employers. Learn more and apply here.
- National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Loan Repayment Program: This program pays up to $50,000 of your federal or private student loans if you are a primary care physician, dentist, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or mental health provider who works for at least two years in a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA), which is a designated area with a shortage of health care providers. You can apply for this program every year, and the application cycle usually opens in the fall. Learn more and apply here.
- Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program: This program pays up to 60% of your federal or private student loans if you are a registered nurse, advanced practice registered nurse, or nurse faculty who works for at least two years in a Critical Shortage Facility (CSF), which is a health care facility with a critical shortage of nurses, or in an accredited school of nursing. You can apply for this program every year, and the application cycle usually opens in the winter. Learn more and apply here.
- Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program: This program forgives up to $17,500 of your federal student loans if you are a highly qualified teacher who teaches full-time for five consecutive years in a low-income school or educational service agency. You must have taken out your loans before the end of your fifth year of teaching, and you must apply for forgiveness after you complete the required service. There is no deadline to apply, but you must submit a Teacher Loan Forgiveness Application to your loan servicer. Learn more and apply here.
- Indian Health Service (IHS) Loan Repayment Program: This program pays up to $40,000 of your federal or private student loans if you are a health professional who commits to work for at least two years in an Indian health program, which is a health care facility that serves American Indian and Alaska Native communities. You can apply for this program every year, and the application cycle usually opens in the fall. Learn more and apply [here].
State Scholarships
State governments fund state scholarships and are available for borrowers who have federal or private student loans and who live or work in a specific state. These scholarships usually require you to work in a high-need or underserved area or profession for a certain period of time, after which your loans will be forgiven or reduced. Here are some of the most generous state scholarships that can help you pay off your student loans:
- New York State Young Farmers Loan Forgiveness Incentive Program: This program pays up to $50,000 of your federal or private student loans if you are a college graduate who has operated a farm in New York State for at least five years. You must have graduated from an approved college or university with an associate’s, bachelor’s, or graduate degree, and you must have a contract with the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) to operate a farm in New York State. You must apply for this program within two years of graduation, and you must submit annual documentation of your farm operation. Learn more and apply [here].
- John R. Justice (JRJ) Student Loan Repayment Program: This program pays up to $10,000 per year, up to $ 60,000-lifetime maximum, of your federal student loans if you are an attorney who works as a state or federal public defender or prosecutor for at least three years. You must have an outstanding balance on your eligible loans, and you must sign a service agreement with your state agency. You must apply for this program every year, and the application cycle varies by state. Learn more and apply [here].
- ND Career Builders Scholarship & Loan Repayment Program: This program pays up to $17,000 of your federal or private student loans if you are a college graduate who works in a high-demand or emerging occupation in North Dakota for at least three years. You must have graduated from an approved college or university with an associate’s, bachelor’s, or graduate degree, and you must have a contract with the North Dakota University System (NDUS) to work in a qualifying occupation in North Dakota. You must apply for this program within three years of graduation, and you must submit annual documentation of your employment. Learn more and apply [here].
- Maryland SmartBuy Program: This program pays up to 15% of the purchase price of a home, up to $40,000, of your federal or private student loans if you are a first-time homebuyer who buys a home in Maryland. You must have at least $1,000 in student loan debt, and you must pay off your entire student loan balance at the time of the home purchase. You must also meet the income and credit requirements of the program, and you must use an approved lender and real estate agent. Learn more and apply [here].
- California State Loan Repayment Program (SLRP): This program pays up to $50,000 of your federal or private student loans if you are a primary care physician, dentist, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or mental health provider who works for at least two years in a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) or a Medically Underserved Area/Population (MUA/P) in California. You must have a valid license to practice in California, and you must have a contract with the California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD) to work in a qualifying site. You must apply for this program every year, and the application cycle usually opens in the summer. Learn more and apply [here].
Private Scholarships
Private scholarships are funded by private organizations, such as foundations, companies, or associations, and are available for borrowers who have federal or private student loans. These scholarships usually do not have any service or employment requirements, but they may have other criteria, such as academic merit, financial need, or personal characteristics. Here are some of the most generous private scholarships that can help you pay off your student loans:
- Delete Your Debt No-Essay Grant: This grant pays $500 of your federal or private student loans if you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is 18 years or older. You do not need to write an essay or have a minimum GPA to apply for this grant. You need to fill out a short online form and agree to receive emails from MoneySolver, the organization that sponsors this grant. You can apply for this grant every month, and the deadline is the last day of each month. Learn more and apply [here].
- $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship: This scholarship pays $10,000 of your federal or private student loans if you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is 18 years or older and enrolled or planning to enroll in an accredited college or university. You do not need to write an essay or have a minimum GPA to apply for this scholarship. You need
- To enter a sweepstakes, provide your name and email address. You can apply for this scholarship every month, and the deadline is the last day of each month. Learn more and apply [here]. 13. $2,000 “No Essay” College Scholarship: This scholarship pays $2,000 of your federal or private student loans if you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is 18 years or older and enrolled or planning to enroll in an accredited college or university. You do not need to write an essay or have a minimum GPA to apply for this scholarship. You need to fill out a short online form and agree to receive emails from Niche, the organization that sponsors this scholarship. You can apply for this scholarship every month, and the deadline is the last day of each month. Learn more and apply here. 14. $1,000 ScholarshipPoints Scholarship: This scholarship pays $1,000 of your federal or private student loans if you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is 13 years or older and enrolled or planning to enroll in an accredited college or university. You do not need to write an essay or have a minimum GPA to apply for this scholarship. You just need to create an account on ScholarshipPoints, a website that offers free points for completing activities, such as surveys, quizzes, games, and more. You can use your points to enter drawings for various scholarships, including this one. You can apply for this scholarship every month, and the deadline is the last day of each month. Learn more and apply [here]. 15. $1,000 You Deserve It Scholarship: This scholarship pays $1,000 of your federal or private student loans if you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is 16 years or older and enrolled or planning to enroll in an accredited college or university. You do not need to write an essay or have a minimum GPA to apply for this scholarship. You just need to create an account on ScholarshipOwl, a website that helps you find and apply for multiple scholarships with one application. You can apply for this scholarship every month, and the deadline is the last day of each month. Learn more and apply [here].
- Profession-Based Scholarships
- Profession-based scholarships are funded by various organizations and are available for borrowers who have federal or private student loans and who work or plan to work in a specific profession. These scholarships usually require you to demonstrate your commitment, excellence, or potential in your chosen field, and they may have other criteria, such as academic merit, financial need, or personal characteristics. Here are some of the most generous profession-based scholarships that can help you pay off your student loans:
- Fulbright Student Program: This program pays up to $35,000 of your federal or private student loans if you are a U.S. citizen who is a graduating senior, graduate student, or young professional who wants to study, research, or teach abroad for one academic year. You must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, and you must have a proposal for a project or course of study in a foreign country. You must also have sufficient proficiency in the language of the host country, and you must meet the eligibility requirements of the specific country you apply to. You must apply for this program through your institution or at-large, and the application cycle usually opens in the spring. Learn more and apply [here].
- American Association of University Women (AAUW) Career Development Grants: These grants pay up to $12,000 of your federal or private student loans if you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is a woman of color and/or a woman pursuing her first advanced degree or credentials in a nontraditional field. You must have earned a bachelor’s degree more than two years before the start date of the grant, and you must have a plan to advance your career, change careers, or re-enter the workforce. You must apply for these grants every year, and the application cycle usually opens in the summer. Learn more and apply [here].
- National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP): This program pays up to $34,000 of your federal or private student loans if you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is a graduating senior, first-year graduate student, or second-year graduate student who is pursuing a research-based master’s or doctoral degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) or in STEM education. You must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, and you must have a research proposal and a personal statement that demonstrate your potential for significant achievements in STEM or STEM education. You must apply for this program every year, and the application cycle usually opens in the fall. Learn more and apply [here].
- The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans: These fellowships pay up to $25,000 of your federal or private student loans if you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is a new American, which means you are an immigrant or the child of immigrants, and who is a graduating senior, current graduate student, or recent graduate who is pursuing a graduate degree in any field of study in the U.S. You must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, and you must have a record of academic excellence, leadership, and creativity. You must apply for these fellowships every year, and the application cycle usually opens in the summer. Learn more and apply here.
- The Rhodes Scholarships: These scholarships pay up to $50,000 of your federal or private student loans if you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is a graduating senior, current graduate student, or recent graduate who is pursuing a postgraduate degree at the University of Oxford in the U.K. You must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, and you must have a record of academic achievement, leadership, service, and character. You must apply for these scholarships through your institution or at-large, and the application cycle usually opens in the spring. Learn more and apply here.
Conclusion
These are some of the best scholarships that can help you pay off your student loans, but they are not the only ones. There are many other scholarships out there that can suit your needs and goals, so you should do your own research and apply for as many as you can. You can use websites like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, or College Board to find and compare thousands of scholarships for free. You can also check with your school, employer, community, or professional associations for more opportunities.
Paying off your student loans can be challenging, but it is not impossible. With the help of these scholarships, you can reduce or eliminate your debt and achieve your dreams. Good luck and happy applying!
Hi there,I hope this mail finds you well.I really want to further my studies,but my dream is been cut short because of funds,Please I need your assistant.How do I go about it?
It’s great to hear that you’re interested in furthering your studies. There are several ways you can pursue this goal even if you’re facing financial constraints:
Scholarships: Search for scholarships that fit your field of study, background, or achievements. Scholarships can cover part or all of your tuition and sometimes even living expenses.
Grants: Similar to scholarships, grants are typically need-based and can offer financial support for educational purposes without the need for repayment.
Student Loans: Consider applying for student loans. These will need to be repaid, but they can provide the upfront funds necessary to pursue your studies.
Work-Study Programs: Many institutions offer work-study programs that allow you to work part-time while attending school. This can help offset some of your educational costs.
Assistantships: If you are looking into graduate studies, research or teaching assistantships can be a good option. They often cover tuition and provide a stipend in exchange for work in your department.
Part-Time Study: Consider enrolling as a part-time student, which allows you to work while studying and spread out the financial burden over a longer period.
Crowdfunding: You might explore crowdfunding platforms where you can tell your story and request financial assistance from the public.
Educational Savings Plans: If you have time before starting your studies, consider setting up a dedicated savings plan and contributing whenever possible.
To get started, you might want to visit Pick A Scholarship for specific scholarship opportunities that might be available to you.
Make sure to thoroughly research each opportunity and meet deadlines when applying. Good luck with your educational journey!
Thank you for giving me opportunity to apply in your university
You’re welcome! I’m glad to hear you’re interested in applying to our university. While I can’t include external websites in my response, I can certainly provide you with some tips and general information on finding scholarships and making the most of resources like Pick A Scholarship. Here are a few steps to guide you:
Explore University Resources: Check out the scholarships and financial aid section of the university’s official website. Many universities offer unique scholarships to both domestic and international students.
Utilize Scholarship Databases: Use platforms like Pick A Scholarship to discover scholarships that match your criteria such as field of study, nationality, or academic achievement.
Prepare Your Documents: Have your CV, academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a personal statement ready. These documents are often required in scholarship applications.
Stay Organized: Keep a spreadsheet or document with deadlines, requirements, and contact information for each scholarship opportunity you are interested in.
Contact the Financial Aid Office: If you’re unsure about which scholarships to apply for, reach out to the university’s financial aid office for guidance.
Apply Early: Submit your applications well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues and to ensure all necessary materials are received on time.
Good luck with your application process, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions about joining our community!
Mr Louizi slim Gmail [email protected] tel+21620654858 Tunisien like dba PhD Schollarchips schort programme Contact for détails
If you are looking for DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) or PhD scholarship opportunities for Mr. Louizi Slim from Tunisia, there are several steps and resources you can utilize to find relevant programs and scholarships:
University Websites: Start by exploring the websites of universities that offer DBA or PhD programs in your field of interest. Many universities provide information about scholarships and funding opportunities for international students on their graduate program pages.
Contact University Departments: Reach out directly to the departments offering the DBA or PhD programs. They can provide details on available scholarships, application procedures, and deadlines.
Pick a Scholarship: Websites like Pick a Scholarship can be helpful in finding scholarships tailored to your needs. They offer a variety of scholarship opportunities based on location, field of study, and level of study. You can search for scholarships specific to Tunisian students or those available for international applicants in your field of interest.
Government and Non-Profit Scholarships: Research scholarships offered by government bodies or non-profit organizations in Tunisia or the country where you wish to study. These organizations sometimes offer funding for students pursuing advanced degrees abroad.
Networking and Professional Associations: Join professional groups or associations related to business and academia. Networking with professionals in your field can provide valuable insights into scholarship opportunities and academic programs.
Advisory Services: Consider reaching out to educational advisory services for personalized guidance on finding and applying for suitable scholarships and programs.
By utilizing these strategies, Mr. Louizi Slim can explore a variety of options to find a suitable DBA or PhD scholarship that aligns with his academic and career goals.
I want a someone to sponsor my education
Finding a sponsor for your education can be a challenging task, but there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of success:
Identify Your Needs and Goals: Clarify what type of education you are seeking sponsorship for and the amount you need. This will help you target the right sponsors.
Research Potential Sponsors: Look for companies, organizations, and individuals who have a history of sponsoring education. These could be local businesses, community organizations, or philanthropists.
Network: Utilize your personal and professional networks. Let friends, family, teachers, and colleagues know about your search for a sponsor. Sometimes word of mouth can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Prepare a Proposal: Create a compelling sponsorship proposal that outlines your educational goals, why you require sponsorship, and what you offer in return (such as promoting their brand, sharing progress updates, or volunteering).
Contact Potential Sponsors Directly: Reach out to potential sponsors with a personalized email or letter. Explain why you selected them and how their sponsorship would make a difference.
Utilize Social Media Platforms: Platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or even Instagram can be effective for connecting with potential sponsors. Share your story and your educational aspirations.
Approach Educational Institutions: Some schools or universities have connections with alumni or businesses that offer scholarships or sponsorships. Contact the financial aid office for leads.
Look for Mentorship Opportunities: Sometimes mentors are willing to sponsor promising students. Engage in forums, attend conferences, or join professional organizations in your field of interest.
Community Involvement: Volunteering and participating in community events can also help you connect with potential sponsors who are passionate about giving back to the community.
Stay Persistent and Positive: Finding a sponsor can take time, so stay persistent and keep refining your approach based on feedback.
By following these steps, you may increase your chances of finding a sponsor to support your educational journey.
I’m interested in the school to study the Human resources management
If you’re interested in studying Human Resources Management, you might want to consider looking into reputable universities and colleges known for strong business or management programs. Some of the top schools for Human Resource Management include:
Cornell University (Ithaca, New York, USA): Known for its School of Industrial and Labor Relations, Cornell is a top choice for students interested in HR management.
University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA): Their Ross School of Business offers specialized programs in HR management.
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) (London, England): It is highly regarded for its social sciences programs, including Human Resources and Employment Relations.
University of Southern California (Los Angeles, California, USA): USC’s Marshall School of Business provides excellent resources and programs for HR studies.
IE Business School (Madrid, Spain): Known for its international environment and innovative approach to management education.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (Illinois, USA): Offers a strong program in Human Resources and Industrial Relations.
Northwestern University (Evanston, Illinois, USA): Offers specialized courses through the Kellogg School of Management.
When choosing a school, consider factors such as the specific curriculum offered, opportunities for internships, networking possibilities, and the overall reputation of the institution. Additionally, look into whether the school offers flexibility in terms of online or part-time study, if that fits your needs.
Okay
I understand you’re asking for scholarship information and prefer to use https://www.pickascholarship.com. Unfortunately, I can’t browse the internet or access external databases directly. However, I can help guide you on how to look for scholarships on a website like Pick A Scholarship. Here’s a general approach you might take:
Use the Search Function: On the homepage, there is usually a search bar where you can enter keywords related to your field of study, home country, or destination country for scholarships.
Filter Options: Look for filter options that allow you to narrow down scholarships by criteria such as level of study (undergraduate, graduate), field of study, and student nationality.
Categories and Lists: Check if the website organizes scholarships into categories or curated lists, such as "Top Scholarships for International Students" or "Fully Funded Opportunities."
Latest Scholarships: Often, there will be a section for recently added scholarships, which can be useful for finding the most current opportunities.
Application Guides: Many scholarship websites offer guidance on how to apply, including tips on writing personal statements and securing recommendation letters.
Newsletter Subscription: Consider signing up for newsletters if offered, to receive updates on new scholarships that match your criteria.
Remember to always verify the details from the scholarship’s official website to ensure the information is up-to-date and accurate.
Yes can you help me apply for a scholarship
Of course! Here’s a general guide to help you apply for a scholarship:
Research Scholarships
Identify Your Goals: Determine what you need the scholarship for (e.g., undergraduate studies, graduate studies, research, etc.) and the field of study you are interested in.
Search for Scholarships:
Prepare Your Application Materials
Gather Required Documents:
Tailor Your Application:
Submit Your Application
Follow Instructions: Carefully read all instructions and ensure you meet deadlines. Some scholarships may have very specific submission requirements, such as format or method of submission.
Proofread Your Application: Double-check your documents for errors or omissions. It might be helpful to have someone else review your application.
Complete All Sections: Ensure that every part of the application form is filled out completely and accurately.
After Submission
Track Your Application: Keep a record of all the scholarships you’ve applied for and note any follow-up dates or actions required after submission.
Follow Up: If the scholarship committee allows or encourages follow-ups, you can send a polite email or letter to inquire about the status of your application.
Prepare for Interviews: Some scholarships may require an interview as part of the selection process. Prepare by reviewing common interview questions and practicing your responses.
Additionally, you can visit resources like Pick a Scholarship to find more specific scholarship opportunities that match your criteria. Remember that persistence and careful planning are key to a successful scholarship application process. Good luck!