PSLFCheckRAP CalculatorForgiveness CheckerEmployer SearchPSLF CalculatorPSLFWhat is RAPRAP vs IBRNewsMethodology

PSLF requirements in 2026: the full checklist

Short answer: To qualify for PSLF you need all of: (1) full-time work (generally 30+ hours/week) for a U.S. government organization or 501(c)(3) nonprofit; (2) federal Direct Loans; (3) a qualifying repayment plan — RAP, IBR or another IDR plan, or 10-year Standard; and (4) 120 qualifying monthly payments made while meeting the first three. Then you apply for forgiveness with the PSLF form.

Last verified November 5, 2026 · PSLFCheck Editorial

RequirementQualifiesDoes not qualify
EmployerFederal, state, local, tribal government; military; public schools; 501(c)(3) nonprofits; some other public-service nonprofitsFor-profit companies, labor unions, partisan political organizations
HoursFull-time (generally 30+ hrs/week, can combine jobs)Part-time under 30 hours total
LoansDirect Loans, including Direct ConsolidationFFEL, Perkins (unless consolidated), private loans
PlanRAP, IBR/IDR plans, 10-year StandardTiered Standard over 10 years, extended/graduated (generally)

How to check yourself

  1. Search your employer in the PSLF employer search, then confirm in the PSLF Help Tool.
  2. Check loan types on your studentaid.gov dashboard.
  3. Confirm your plan and estimate months left with the RAP calculator.
  4. Run the forgiveness checker for a plain-English summary.

Check my forgiveness options →RAP calculatorPSLF employer search

FAQ

Do contractors qualify?

Generally no — PSLF looks at who employs you directly, not who you work for under a contract.

Can I combine two part-time jobs?

Yes, if both are qualifying employers and you average at least 30 hours per week combined.

Sources

  1. Public Service Loan Forgiveness — studentaid.gov — accessed November 5, 2026
  2. PSLF Help Tool & form — studentaid.gov — accessed November 5, 2026
  3. 34 CFR 685.219 — PSLF (eCFR) — accessed November 5, 2026

Related: What is PSLF · PSLF requirements · PSLF form · Teacher forgiveness · Forgiveness in 2026 · Apply for RAP · Get out of default · Wage garnishment

Last verified: November 5, 2026

Disclaimer: Not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or any loan servicer. Educational information, not financial or legal advice. Results are estimates. Confirm with studentaid.gov or your servicer. Published by PSLFCheck Editorial, AK Digital Marketing LLC.