Does Air Force Pay Student Loans?
Enlisting in the United States Air Force (USAF) can be a way to serve your country, gain valuable experience, and even have some of your student loans forgiven. With the increasing cost of education, it’s essential for prospective recruits to understand whether the Air Force pays off student loans.
What Services Does the Air Force Provide?
The USAF provides several benefits and services for its airmen and officers, including:
Education Assistance
The Air Force Assistance Fund, a non-profit organization, grants scholarships and assistance to aid in education-related expenses such as tuition, fees, and textbooks. Additionally, the Air Force offers special programs, such as:
- Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR): provides educational benefits up to $362.19 per month
- Air Force Tuition Assistance Program: offers funding for up to 100% of tuition and fees, up to $10,000 per year (dependent on enlistment/assignment)
- Federal Tuition Assistance Plan: offers tuition reimbursement benefits for off-duty education related to career fields
**Student Loan Forgiveness**
While the USAF does not directly forgive student loans, it may help in paying off accumulated debt through Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), a U.S. Department of Education program. This program Forgives federal loans after a certain period (120 payment) if borrowers work 10 years for a U.S. government agency like the Air Force.
In addition, some Air Force career fields have specific educational loan repayment programs, for example:
- Air Force Financial Management School: offers $10,000 to $20,000 in educational loan reimbursement for qualified candidates
- Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AROTC) Scholarship Program: provides partial or full scholarships to deserving students attending participating colleges/universities
Requirements and Availability
To take advantage of these services and programs, prospective airmen typically need to:
- Complete an application for enlistment or officer training
- Meet basic educational requirements or complete additional courses
- Agree to a minimum obligated service period
- Have a specific Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) related to the provided education/loan assistance
- In some cases, have previously accumulated debt before joining
Important Facts to Note
• The Air Force Assistance Fund, Montgomery GI Bill, and Federal Tuition Assistance Plan are governed by specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines
• PSFL eligibility may require manual submission of qualifying payments during the 120-month processing period
• Some program details, benefits, or eligibility may vary depending on individual circumstances and Air Force directives
• Additional terms and conditions apply to receiving these benefits; consult military authorities or documentation for a comprehensive understanding
Tuition and Educational Benefits vs. Student Loan Forgiveness
Here is a helpful comparison table summarizing educational benefits and potential student loan forgiveness options for Air Force personnel:
| BENEFIT | AMOUNT | ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS |
|---|---|---|
| Air Force Tuition Assistance | up to 100% tuition and fees, up to $10,000/year | depend on enlistment/ assignment |
| Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve | up to $362.19 per month | military service members, with active duty preference |
| Air Force Tuition Assistance Plan | covers 100% tuition, fees, and books (up to $10,000/year) | applicable for Air Force personnel working in certain fields |
| Public Service Loan Forgiveness | forgiveness after 10 years (120 payments), federal loans | government employees, including military service members and officers |
| Air Force Financial Management School | up to $20,000 educational loan reimbursement | certified candidates, related to careers in finance, accounting |
| AROTC Scholarship Program | partial or full scholarships | competitive selection and meeting program criteria |
Enlisting in the Air Force can provide an opportunity for educational assistance and potential debt relief through loan forgiveness, but it is essential for prospective recruits to understand program requirements, terms, and limitations. Weigh these benefits against other factors (such as job prospects, officer commission, and personal objectives) when deciding whether this path is suitable for your future.
