How to Pay Student Loans Through VISTA
The Volunteer in Services to America (VISTA) program is a part of Americorps, an independent federal agency dedicated to bettering the country and its communities through volunteer service. VISTA focuses on eliminating poverty and helping better low-income neighborhoods. This program offers the ability to earn an education award to be applied to paying down qualified outstanding student loans.
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Things You'll Need
- High school diploma or GED
- Clean criminal record
- American citizenship
- Legal permanent alien status
Instructions
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Know the VISTA volunteer requirements. You must be at least 18 years of age to volunteer in the VISTA program. A criminal history and background check also will be conducted during the application process.
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2
Understand the time commitment. Unlike other Americorps programs, you must be available full-time (at least 40 hours a week) for a period of one year to qualify for an education award or end-of-year stipend payment.
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Recognize the benefits. In addition to a $4,725 education award or end-of-year stipend payment, VISTA volunteers also may qualify for limited health care benefits, dependent child care cost-payment assistance, a modest living allowance and payment of relocation expenses.
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Perform your volunteer service. Complete one full year of full-time service in the available volunteer program of your choice.
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Make a decision regarding the award. You may claim either an education award or elect a year-end stipend. The dollar amounts are $4,725 for both.
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Tips & Warnings
If you have a Perkins loan, you may qualify for a partial cancellation of your loan. Check with your local VISTA representative to see if you qualify.
Place your student loans in either deferment or forbearance during your volunteer service so you won't run the risk of defaulting.
Know the common qualified student loans for this program. The most common are subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford loans, William D. Perkins Direct loans, guaranteed student loans, Family Federal Education loans, Federal Consolidated loans and subsidized and unsubsidized Ford loans.
Don't apply for this program if you have a criminal history. If you have been convicted of a state, local or federal criminal offense, your application to the VISTA program will be denied.
Make certain that you qualify for an education award. You can qualify for a maximum of two education awards over a lifetime.
Be certain of your award election. Award elections are irrevocable. Once you decide to elect an education award over a year-end stipend, you cannot change your mind.
