Understanding Borrower Defense to Repayment: A Complete Guide
A comprehensive breakdown of the Borrower Defense to Repayment program — who qualifies, how to file, and what organizations need to know to support their members.
What is Borrower Defense to Repayment?
Borrower Defense to Repayment (BDR) is a federal program that allows student loan borrowers to seek discharge of their federal student loans if they were misled or defrauded by their school. This guide explains the eligibility criteria, application process, and how organizations like unions, employers, and nonprofits can help their members navigate this path.
Who Qualifies?
Borrowers who attended schools that closed, engaged in deceptive practices, or violated state laws in a way that relates to their loans or education may be eligible. This includes many former students of for-profit institutions and some community colleges.
How Relief IQ Helps
Relief IQ provides structured case workflows, document collection tools, and guided processes to help organizations efficiently support borrowers through the Borrower Defense application process. Our platform centralizes case management and evidence organization so no one falls through the cracks.