Forgivable Education Loans for Service (FELS)
Education loan: up to $7,000 yearly at undergraduate levels and $14,000 graduate; forgiven only after qualifying service.
About Forgivable Education Loans for Service (FELS)
FELS connects education financing with employment in North Carolina’s critical workforce fields.
Students must enroll at least part time under the institution’s policy in an approved program and college leading to an eligible occupation. Lists change, and some required internships or residency positions before licensure do not count as service. Juniors and seniors receive priority for bachelor’s awards; rural primary-care and psychiatry programs have separate rules. The 2026–27 deadline was March 1, 2026 and has passed.
Before applying, download the FELS rules and compare your program and expected job with the approved lists. Submit through CFNC during the annual window; 2026–27 is closed. Current borrowers can reach NCSEAA repayment services at 800-700-1775, extension 4654. Keep the note and employment evidence and request forgiveness through the required process; it does not happen automatically at graduation.
Who it serves and what it can cover: Education loan: up to $7,000 yearly at undergraduate levels and $14,000 graduate; forgiven only after qualifying service.
How to apply or get help: Before applying, download the FELS rules and compare your program and expected job with the approved lists. Submit through CFNC during the annual window; 2026–27 is closed. Current borrowers can reach NCSEAA repayment services at 800-700-1775, extension 4654. Keep the note and employment evidence and request forgiveness through the required process; it does not happen automatically at graduation. For case-specific questions, contact the program or financial-aid office named on its official page.
Public student financial-aid program