NEW GRAD STUDENT LOAN REPAYMENT PLAYBOOK
What is the "New Grad Student Loan Playbook" webinar about?
The “New Grad Student Loan Playbook” webinar, held on May 7th, 2025, was an event by VIN and VIN Foundation aimed at providing information and guidance to the Class of 2025 veterinary graduates regarding their student loan repayment. The webinar covered topics such as whether to file a 2024 tax return, the implications of consolidating loans, choosing the right repayment plan, and whether using a signing bonus to pay down loans during the grace period is a good idea. The webinar aimed to help graduates make informed decisions about their student loan repayment, pay less, and reduce repayment stress, especially given the complex changes in student loan repayment options in 2025.
What were some key questions asked during the "2025 New Grad Student Loan Playbook" webinar?
Many questions were asked during the webinar. Some key topics included consolidation of loans, specifically concerning Grad Plus loans and Health Professions Loans, and what to do if an attendee already had student loans from undergrad. Specific questions arose about the timing of consolidation and applying for income-driven repayment plans.
Other frequently asked questions included how to handle Parent PLUS loans, whether to make payments during the grace period, how spousal income affects income-driven repayment plans, when to apply for a repayment plan, whether to apply for forgiveness, and the difference in interest rates between different repayment plans.
Several attendees had questions about how various situations such as further studies, internships/residencies, and sign-on bonuses may impact their repayment options. Also, questions regarding Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) and whether consolidation is required for it were prominent.
Are you heading for an internship or residency?
Conventional wisdom and reflex in the medical training community often says to defer your loans while pursuing internships and/or residencies. However, income-driven repayment (IDR) is often a much better option for veterinarians with federal student debt pursuing advanced education. The VIN Foundation Climbing Mt. Debt – Interns and Residents webinar and tools are here to help!
