Paying for post-secondary education can be stressful, especially when you're also thinking about rent, food, and transportation. If you're studying or planning to work in Northern British Columbia, there's good news: the federal Canada Student Loan Forgiveness program could help reduce your student loan debt after you graduate.
This program is designed to support graduates who choose to live and work in smaller or rural communities — which includes many communities across Northern B.C. If you work in an eligible job and community, the federal government may forgive part of your Canada Student Loan each year.
To qualify, you must work in an eligible occupation, live and work in an eligible community (generally with a population of 30,000 or less), and be properly licensed in your profession where required. Your student loans must also be in good standing.
Newly added eligible occupations include:
- Dentist
- Dental Hygienist
- Early Childhood Educator
- Midwife
- Personal Support Worker
- Pharmacist
- Physiotherapist
- Psychologist
- Social Worker
- Teacher
These are in addition to careers that were already eligible for the program:
- Family Doctor
- Family Medicine Resident
- Licensed Practical Nurse
- Nurse Practitioner
- Registered Nurse
- Registered Psychiatric Nurse
- Registered Practical Nurse
If you work full-time in one of these roles for at least one year in an eligible community, you can apply to have part of your Canada Student Loan forgiven. You can apply each year, for up to five years, depending on your occupation.
This program can significantly lower your student loan balance while helping you build a career close to home. It also supports Northern BC communities by encouraging trained professionals to live and work locally.
If you’re planning your career after graduation, student loan forgiveness may make staying in Northern British Columbia a more affordable and rewarding option.
For more information visit the Government of Canada's webpage on student loan forgiveness