Introduction: Understanding Your Options for Relief in 2025
If you attended DeVry or are among former students of this for-profit college, you might be struggling with student debt. The good news is that many students who attended DeVry University may qualify for loan forgiveness or loan discharge programs in 2025.
This guide covers everything you need to know about devry student loan forgiveness options, including programs from the Department of Education and settlements from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
What is DeVry Student Loan Forgiveness? Understanding the Landscape
“Devry loan forgiveness” isn’t a specific program created by the university. Instead, it refers to several ways that devry student borrowers can get debt relief through federal programs and past legal settlements. These options exist because DeVry University has been found to have misled students about job prospects and earnings after graduation.
Background: DeVry University’s Legal and Regulatory Issues
FTC Settlement and Its Impact
In 2016, the Federal Trade Commission reached a $100 million settlement with DeVry after finding the university made deceptive claims. DeVry had advertised that 90% of their graduates found jobs in their field within six months of graduation, which was not true.
This settlement provided relief to students who were affected by these false claims, especially those who enrolled between 2008 and 2015.
Department of Education Actions
The DOE has also taken action against DeVry. In 2022, the Department announced $71.7 million in debt relief for borrowers who were misled by the university’s false advertising about job placement rates.
Understanding Discover Student Loans: A Comprehensive Guide
FAFSA Student Loans – You should Know
Who Qualifies for Potential DeVry Student Loan Forgiveness?
You may be eligible to apply for forgiveness if you:
- Took out federal student loans to pay for a degree program at DeVry University
- Attended DeVry University between 2008 and 2015 (when most false claims were made)
- Can show you were affected by DeVry’s misleading practices about:
- Job placement rates
- Graduate income
- Value of DeVry degrees
Both undergraduate and graduate students may qualify for these programs.
Types of Student Loan Forgiveness Options for DeVry Students
Borrower Defense to Repayment
The main way to get federal student loan forgiveness if you were deceived by DeVry is through a program known as borrower defense. This program allows federal student loan borrowers to request a discharge of their loans if their school misled them.
Many defrauded students from DeVry have already had their loans forgiven through successful borrower defense applications. You can submit a claim on the borrower defense page of the Federal Student Aid website.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
If you work in public service, you may be eligible for federal loan forgiveness through PSLF, regardless of the issues with DeVry. You must make 120 qualifying payments while working for a qualifying employer.
Income-Driven Repayment Forgiveness
Income-driven repayment plans can lead to forgiveness after 20-25 years of payments. This option is available to all federal student loan borrowers, including former DeVry students.
Relief from Past Settlements
The FTC $100 million settlement provided refunds to some students. Part of this settlement included millions in debt relief by canceling millions in loans owed directly to DeVry.
How to Apply for DeVry Student Loan Forgiveness
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Determine which program best fits your situation
- Gather documentation showing you attended DeVry University
- Collect evidence that shows how DeVry misled you
- Apply for federal loan discharge through the appropriate program
- Continue making payments until your application is approved
Applying for Borrower Defense
To apply for federal loan forgiveness through borrower defense to repayment:
- Visit the Federal Student Aid website
- Navigate to the borrower defense page
- Complete the application with details about how DeVry deceived you
- Submit supporting documents
- Wait for the review, which may take several months
| Program | Where to Apply | What You Need |
| Borrower Defense | StudentAid.gov | Evidence of DeVry’s false claims |
| PSLF | StudentAid.gov | Employment certification forms |
| Income-Driven Plans | Your loan servicer | Income documentation |
Current Status of DeVry Forgiveness in 2025
As of 2025, the Department of Education continues to process borrower defense claims from students deceived by DeVry University. Many former DeVry students have already received millions in debt relief, and you can still apply if you haven’t yet.
Tax Implications of Loan Forgiveness
Most federal student loan debt forgiven through these programs is not taxable at the federal level. However, state tax rules vary, so check with a tax professional.
Alternatives If You’re Not Eligible
If you don’t qualify for the above programs, consider:
- Refinancing (though this removes federal benefits)
- Exploring state-based assistance programs
- Contacting your loan servicers about hardship options
Private Student Loans
Unfortunately, most devry federal student loan relief programs don’t apply to private student loans. If you have private loans, contact your lender to discuss options.
Protecting Yourself from Scams
Be careful of companies that promise to forgive student loans for a fee. Legitimate devry forgiveness applications are free through government websites. Watch out for:
- Upfront fees to apply for loan forgiveness
- Promises of immediate forgiveness
- Pressure to sign up quickly
- Requests for your FSA ID password
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I get my DeVry student loans forgiven through PSLF?
Yes, if you work for a qualifying public service employer. - Are DeVry graduates eligible for Teacher Loan Forgiveness?
Yes, if you teach in a low-income school. - How long does it take for DeVry student loans to be forgiven?
Timelines vary depending on the program and your circumstances. - What if I didn’t finish my degree at DeVry University? Can I still apply for forgiveness?
Yes, especially if you were misled by DeVry University. - What if I already paid off my loans? Is there any retroactive relief?
If you were part of the FTC settlement, you may be able to get a refund.
Conclusion: Taking Action
If you believe DeVry misled you, don’t wait to seek relief from your federal student loan debt. Many former devry students have successfully had their loans canceled by proving the university made false claims.
Remember that DeVry’s status as an institution accredited by the higher learning commission doesn’t prevent you from seeking relief if you were misled about important aspects of your education.
Take action today to free yourself from millions in debt caused by a for-profit school’s disclosure of graduate outcomes that weren’t accurate.
Resources and Further Reading
For more information and to apply for federal loan forgiveness, visit: