Student Loan Planning for Medical Professionals

If you’re unsure whether to pay off your loans fast, refinance, pursue forgiveness, or choose the right income‑driven plan, you’re in good company. While these decisions are complex, you don't have to figure things out on your own.

Our team is here help you build a repayment strategy tailored to your unique situation. By understanding the ways you can approach your medical student loans, you might even be able to save substantial amounts of money over time.

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What is Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) is a program that forgives the remaining balance of your federal student loan if you're able to make 120 qualifying monthly payments under a qualifying repayment plan while working full-time for a qualifying employer. If you're a physician working in a public hospital or non-profit organization, you might be eligible for PSLF. Specific requirements include:

Having a federal Direct Loan (other types must be consolidated into a Direct Loan)
Working for a public service employer for at least 30 hours per week
Making 120 qualifying payments under a qualified, income-driven repayment plan (standard 10-year repayment does not count)

The qualifying process can take some time, but having your remaining loan balance forgiven may be worth it to you.

The Latest Student Loan News

Federal Student Loans

Eligible federal student loan borrowers, enrolled in autopay, can receive a

1-percentage-point reduction in their interest rate. This is a temporary discount expected to last through June 30, 2028. You must enroll by September 30, 2026 to qualify.

The discount is not for every loan and only applies to certain federal Direct Loans, including Direct Subsidized, Direct Unsubsidized, Direct PLUS, and Direct Consolidation Loans. Private student loans and FFEL loans are not included. Borrowers must also have loans in good standing, and the loans generally must have been disbursed on

or after July 1, 2012.

Income-Driven Repayment Plans

As of July 1, 2026 the SAVE Plan (along with two other popular income-driven plans) has been terminated. After you receive notice from your loan servicer, you’ll have 90 days to choose a legally available federal repayment plan. Failure to do so will automatically place you into the 10-year Standard Plan which can lead to higher payments as well as losing out on thousands in potential forgiveness.

Public Student Loan Forgiveness

Temporary expansions under the PSLF waiver allowed many borrowers to receive credit for past payments, but that waiver period is coming to an end. Staying on top of employment certification, payment tracking, and documentation remains essential. Even as repayment plans evolve, qualifying PSLF payments are generally protected.

Curious why student loan planning is essential for physicians?

Explore the essentials of student loans, includimg the forgiveness options and smart payment strategies available to you. Make sure you're making an educated decision when it comes to how you'll tackle your medical school student loans.

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