Texas Student Assistance Programs
Texas student loan borrowers use federal income-driven repayment, PSLF, and loan counseling through StudentAid.gov. State-specific loan forgiveness is limited but public service careers may qualify for federal programs.
Federal Income-Driven Repayment (IDR)
Avoid third-party "student loan relief" companies charging fees for free federal programs.
What it provides: Monthly payment capped based on income and family size for federal Direct Loans.
Assistance: Remaining balance forgiven after 20–25 years of qualifying payments (tax implications may apply).
Eligibility: Parent PLUS loans require consolidation for most IDR plans.
Who may qualify:
- Federal Direct Loan borrowers
- Documentation of taxable income
Requirements:
- Recertify income annually
- Choose plan (SAVE, PAYE, IBR, ICR)
How to apply: Apply at StudentAid.gov/idr — contact federal loan servicer listed on account.
Official source: StudentAid.gov — IDR Plans
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) — Texas Public Employees
Large numbers of Texas teachers, nurses, and state employees qualify.
What it provides: Forgiveness after 120 qualifying payments while working for government or qualifying nonprofit.
Assistance: Tax-free forgiveness of remaining balance after 10 years of qualifying payments.
Eligibility: Must have Direct Loans and be on qualifying repayment plan.
Who may qualify:
- Full-time employment at Texas state agency, school district, hospital, or 501(c)(3)
Requirements:
- Submit PSLF form annually
- Employer certification
- Track payments in PSLF Help Tool
How to apply: Use PSLF Help Tool at StudentAid.gov/pslf before each job change.
Official source: StudentAid.gov — PSLF
TASFA (Texas Application for State Financial Aid)
Check 2025+ policy updates on THECB site for eligibility changes.
What it provides: State financial aid application for non-citizen Texas residents ineligible for FAFSA.
Assistance: State grants and work-study — not federal Pell for ineligible students.
Eligibility: Allows access to TEXAS Grant and institutional aid at participating colleges.
Who may qualify:
- Texas residents without SSN eligible for in-state tuition under state law
Requirements:
- Submit TASFA to each college by priority deadline
- Residency documentation
How to apply: Download TASFA from THECB or college financial aid office; deadlines mirror FAFSA priority dates.
Official source: THECB — TASFA