If you’re repaying a Federal Family Education Loan — Stafford (subsidized and unsubsidized), SLS, PLUS, or Consolidation — you may be able to postpone — or defer — your principal payments.

If you have a subsidized (interest paid by the government) loan, you won’t be charged interest during the deferment. If your loan is unsubsidized, you’ll be responsible for the interest on the loan during the deferment period.

You may be eligible for deferment under certain conditions, such as:
        • At least half-time study at a postsecondary school
        • Study in an approved graduate fellowship program or an approved rehabilitation training program for the disabled
        • Seeking but unable to find full-time employment
        • Economic hardship
        • Military service

To Apply

Contact your lender or loan servicer for a Deferment Request Form. Specific eligibility requirements apply for each category. If the lender determines that you do not qualify, you still may be granted forbearance — a temporary delay in making payments. But you’ll be responsible for the interest during forbearance. Ask your lender for details.

If you’re having trouble repaying, contact the HESC Advocate Unit. We’ll review available options and provide solutions for you. Contact us at 1-888-215-0196 or loanadvocate@hesc.org, or visit Mapping Your Future.