Teacher Loan Forgiveness Requirements 2026: The Guide

Introduction

If you teach in a low-income school, you might be eligible to have up to $17,500 of your federal student loans completely forgiven. However, navigating the rules can be tricky. This guide explains the specific teacher loan forgiveness requirements for 2026 and how to fill out the application form correctly. For a broader look at other options, check our Master Guide to Student Loan Forgiveness Programs.

How Much Can You Get Forgiven?

The specific amount depends on the subject you teach.

• $17,500 Forgiveness: This tier is for Highly Qualified Math or Science teachers at the secondary level (High School). Additionally, Special Education teachers at any level qualify for this amount.
• $5,000 Forgiveness: This tier is available for highly qualified full-time elementary or secondary teachers in any other subject. This includes subjects such as History, English, or Art.

The 5 Main Requirements

To qualify, you must meet all of the following criteria:

1. Direct Loans: You must have Federal Direct Subsidized or Unsubsidized Loans (or Stafford Loans).
2. 5 Years: You must teach full-time for 5 complete and consecutive academic years.
3. Low-Income School: Your school must appear in the official TCLI Directory (Teacher Cancellation Low Income).
4. No Default: You cannot be in default on your current loans.
5. “Highly Qualified”: You must possess a Bachelor’s degree and full state certification as a teacher.

Teacher Forgiveness vs. Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Many teachers confuse these two programs. Generally, you cannot use the same service period for both.

• Teacher Forgiveness: This path is faster (5 years). It is the best choice if you owe less than $17,500.
• PSLF: This path is slower (10 years / 120 payments). However, it is better if you owe a large amount (e.g., $50k+). This is because it forgives the entire balance.
• Strategy: If you have huge debt, skip the 5-year Teacher program. Instead, go straight for PSLF.

How to Apply (The Form)

Once you finish your 5 years of teaching, follow these steps:

1. First, download the Teacher Loan Forgiveness Application (form OMB No. 1845-0059).
2. Next, fill out the “Borrower Section” completely.
3. Then, take the form to your school’s Chief Administrative Officer (usually the Principal or HR). They must sign it to prove you worked there.
4. Finally, submit the form to your Loan Servicer (e.g., MOHELA, Nelnet). Do not send it to the Department of Education directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

• “Can I take a break?” No. The 5 years must be consecutive. If you quit for a year, the clock resets to zero. However, there are rare exceptions like military leave.
• “Does private school count?” Only if it is a non-profit private school listed in the TCLI directory.
• “Do I pay taxes on it?” No. Fortunately, Teacher Loan Forgiveness is not taxable income.