Public Landscape Architects May Apply for Student Loan Forgiveness
ASLA encourages professionals to take advantage of the Biden administration’s revamp of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program (PSLF).
Matthew Gallagher
2022-12-13
The cost of a college education may force many professionals, including landscape architects, to make tough decisions about gaining valuable work experience and paying for the degree. To help alleviate these stressors, ASLA encourages professionals to take advantage of the Biden administration’s revamp of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program (PSLF).
Professionals who work for a unit of U.S. federal, state, local, or tribal government, or a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, and Americorps and the Peace Corps could qualify for some student loan forgiveness through the PSLF. Specifically, the PSLF forgives the remaining balance on Direct Loans after 120 monthly payments while working full-time for a qualifying employer.
Given the landscape architecture profession’s scope of work includes large and small scale public realm projects, working in all levels of government could provide valuable professional experience. From environmental protection, to transportation planning and design, to local parks and recreation, to municipal water management, and more, there are a host of public projects well-suited for the profession to lead. Likewise, public institutions at every level would benefit immensely from the presence of inspired landscape architects.
If you are working for a government or not-for-profit and are interested in participating in the PSLF, you are encouraged to submit an application. You can learn more about the program here. If you have any questions throughout this process, please do not hesitate to reach out to the ASLA Government Affairs team at governmentaffairs@asla.org.