Student loan debt is a significant obstacle to reaching financial freedom for many individuals. However, with the right support and resources, getting out of debt is possible. College Now has helped over 2,600 individuals save an estimated $176.8 million in student loans, by helping them navigate the complexities of student loan forgiveness programs.  Linda Cox*, a physician, is one such success story. Linda is a proud graduate of an Ivy League university and eventually went on to obtain her master’s and medical degree. With her years of postsecondary education, Linda and her husband racked up $300,000 in student loan debt. She and her husband were overwhelmed by the insurmountable and accumulating debt, but with patience, persistence and expertise, College Now helped Linda get nearly all of the debt forgiven through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) plan last year. Linda recalls, “They [College Now Adult Programs] were always there when I needed support and waited on the phone with me for hours.”  

When individuals needing student loan guidance arrive at College Now’s resource center, they’re met with an expert from the Adult Programs and Services team ready to create a plan for handling clients’ loans. “We help people review their student loan accounts and provides essential services such as loan rehabilitation, consolidation if loans are in default status, assisting with reconstructing loans by applying for lower monthly repayment plans and applying for possible loan forgiveness programs, especially the PSLF,” says Bailey Capelle, director of Adult Programs and Services. This comprehensive support helps to ensure that individuals can pave a path toward both their educational and financial goals with confidence. 

Another aspect of College Now’s service focuses on helping with past-due balances at colleges and universities. The experts utilize external services such as The Cuyahoga County Debt Relief Program, which assists eligible individuals in returning to school if they owe a past-due balance. This program can waive up to $2,000 to facilitate returning to institutions like Cleveland State University or Tri-C and transferring student transcripts. For those who owe more than $2,000, our experts offer additional solutions to help manage and reduce their debt. 

College Now is committed to helping individuals with any amount of student debt, whether it’s small or large. Our goal is to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent anyone from achieving their career aspirations. 

*name has been changed for anonymity purposes.