Take the guesswork out of student loan repayment. One of the most respected student debt management experts in the medical and health professions, Paul Garrard, covers everything you need to know about repayment strategies in these practical video modules.
Introduction to repayment strategies and the modules
Start here for a short introduction to the learning modules and repayment basics to get the most out of the webinars. Be sure to catch the handy at-a-glance reminders at the end.
3 questions every borrower must be able to answer
Learn the three questions that every borrower must be able to answer before you can develop your repayment strategy.
Your upcoming decisions
Check out this module for an overview of the major decisions involved in formulating your repayment strategy.
Your student loan portfolio
Do you know what types of loans are in your portfolio—and the differences between them? This video explains and compares federal direct, campus-based, and private loans.
Interest rates and important changes to capitalization
This quick video tells you what you need to know about your interest rates, plus a 2023 update to capitalization. The capitalization change is good news for borrowers entering repayment, switching income-driven plans, updating income on PAYE, or leaving forbearance.
Loan servicers and payment application
Your monthly interest is an important benchmark for your loan payments. Learn why and how to calculate it. (Note: While this module references a medical school interest calculator, the needed information is available to you in the monthly report section of the VIN Foundation’s student loan repayment simulator.)
Importance of knowing your monthly interest due
This excellent primer tells you what you need to know about time-driven vs. income-driven plans for repaying federal loans.
Repayment plans for federal student loans
Considering an income-driven repayment plan? Here are the key features to know about when deciding if they're right for you.
Income-driven repayment plans (IDRs)
Considering an income-driven repayment plan? Here are the key features to know about when deciding if they're right for you.
SAVE vs. PAYE
SAVE is the new income-driven repayment plan, released in 2023 to replace REPAYE. Check out the benefits of the SAVE plan and compare the details to PAYE.
Married borrowers and repayment
Tying the knot doesn’t have to mean putting your stomach in knots over loan repayment. This module makes it easy to understand how marriage might impact your repayment plan.
$0 payments with income plans
You heard right: $0 payments can be possible with income-driven plans, especially in your first few years out of school. Learn the steps needed for the best chances of getting there.
Repayment calculators
Repayment calculators are a great way to test your repayment strategy and explore other options. This module references veterinary, medical and dental resources. The same principles apply to any repayment calculator.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
Are you considering or currently working for a government agency or a 501(c)(3) nonprofit? This module is a must-see for the when, where, and how of this highly beneficial loan repayment program designed just for you.
Starting repayment and PSLF early
Are you thinking that the sooner you start your income-driven plan, the sooner you finish? It might not be that simple. Check out this module for important considerations regarding the grace period, deferment, and consolidation of federal loans.
Postponing repayment
Here’s the important information you’ll need on deferment vs. forbearance if you ever find yourself needing to postpone loan repayment.
Federal loan consolidation
Do you have federal loans? Learn about the pros and cons of loan consolidation, and when it may or may not be the right strategy.
Refinancing
Thinking about refinancing your loans with a private lender? This helpful module covers important considerations to factor into your decision.
Things didn’t go as planned—now what?
What can you do to manage your student loans if you don't move directly into a job or advanced education, or don't complete your veterinary school program? Good news: You have plenty of options!
Changing repayment plans
Considering a change to your student loan repayment plan? Here’s what you need to know to make an informed decision, all in one short video. Note: This module references physician residencies and fellowships; the same principles apply to veterinary internships and residencies.
Closing tips and reminders
Discover five simple steps to craft your loan repayment strategy, plus a few important reminders that will help keep you on track.
Sample repayment
See what repayment looks like. This module compares repayment numbers and terms for a sample borrower using a standard 10-year repayment plan versus an extended 25-year plan and an income-driven plan.
