States like New York are stepping in to help professionals in critical fields with student loan forgiveness programs.
These programs aim to reduce debt for essential workers in high-cost areas where low wages and high living expenses make it hard to retain staff.
New York’s loan forgiveness programs cover professions such as social work, nursing, law, education, child welfare, and farming.
Each program has unique eligibility requirements and award amounts, often distributing funds over multiple years to support ongoing service in these roles.
Loan Forgiveness Programs in New York
Social Workers
Starting in July 2025, licensed social workers in critical human services roles can apply. Key criteria include:
- Being a licensed social worker working full-time (35 hours a week) in a critical service area.
- Having a qualifying student loan balance.
Maximum award: $26,000 over four years, paid as $6,500 annually.
Nursing Faculty
Applications open in November 2024. Eligible roles include:
- Registered nurses licensed in New York or faculty at a New York nursing school.
- Residency in New York for 12 months before applying.
Maximum award: $40,000 over five years, paid as $8,000 annually.
District Attorneys & Legal Services Attorneys
Applications start in July 2025 for attorneys who have worked in New York as a district attorney, assistant district attorney, or indigent legal services attorney for 4-9 years.
Maximum award: $20,400 over six years, with $3,400 paid annually.
Child Welfare Workers
Applications open in November 2024 for direct care workers in licensed New York child welfare agencies. Eligibility requires:
- A degree from a state college/university obtained within two years.
- Commitment to five years of full-time work in child welfare.
Maximum award: $50,000 over five years, paid as $10,000 annually.
Teachers
Starting in January 2025, teachers in high-need districts or subjects can apply. Requirements include:
- Certification as a New York teacher.
- Full-time employment in an elementary or secondary school.
- 12 months of residency in New York before applying.
Maximum award: $20,000 over four years, paid as $5,000 annually.
Farmers
Beginning in November 2024, recent college graduates who are starting their farming careers in New York can apply if they:
- Have a degree from an approved state college.
- Operate an agricultural product-producing farm full-time in New York for at least five years.
Maximum award: $50,000 over five years, paid as $10,000 annually.
New York’s student loan forgiveness programs provide valuable financial relief to professionals in essential fields, helping them manage debt while serving communities across the state.
With these programs, New York aims to retain qualified workers in critical areas, offering up to $50,000 in debt forgiveness over several years.
By alleviating financial stress, New York is supporting a sustainable workforce in high-need areas, ultimately strengthening services for residents.
Who is eligible for these student loan forgiveness programs in New York?
Each program targets specific professions, like social workers, nurses, lawyers, teachers, child welfare workers, and farmers, with unique eligibility requirements.
When can I apply for these loan forgiveness programs?
Application dates vary by profession, beginning as early as November 2024 and extending to July 2025 for different fields.
How much student loan debt can I have forgiven?
The maximum forgiveness varies from $20,400 to $50,000, depending on the profession and program.
Is the forgiven loan amount taxable?
In some cases, forgiven loan amounts may be considered taxable income, depending on individual tax situations.
Can I apply for more than one loan forgiveness program?
No, each program is targeted at a specific profession, so applicants can only apply to the program that aligns with their job role.
