Student loan forgiveness scam call: is it real?
Editorially reviewed · Last updated June 16, 2026
Yes — this is a scam. Real student loan relief is free and never comes as a surprise call demanding you act today.
“This is the Student Loan Forgiveness Program. You have been pre-approved to have your federal student loans erased under a new relief program, but your enrollment expires today. To lock in your forgiveness and avoid losing your spot, press 1 to speak with your loan advisor and confirm your details now.”
Other versions you might get: The same pitch arrives as a text or email about "loan relief enrollment," or a live "advisor" who asks for your StudentAid.gov FSA ID, your Social Security number, or an upfront "processing" or "enrollment" fee.
What to do right now
- Hang up. Don't press 1, don't call back, and don't give your name, FSA ID, or Social Security number.
- Never pay to enroll. Applying for federal forgiveness is free — a fee, gift card, or "processing" charge is always a scam.
- Check it yourself. Log in at StudentAid.gov or call your loan servicer on the number from their official site to see your real status.
- Report it. File at reportfraud.ftc.gov and the CFPB, and block the number (scammers spoof and rotate, so it may not stop all of them).
- If you already shared or paid: change your StudentAid.gov password and turn on two-factor, call your bank or card to stop or reverse the payment, and watch your accounts for new activity.
How to make sure it never bites you
These calls reach you because your number is on sold lists, and the script preys on real worry about debt. Cut the volume and tighten your accounts — see how to stop spam calls and protect yourself.
Help protect someone else
Scams spread because people stay quiet about them. If this could have fooled you, it can fool someone you know — a parent, a friend, the family group chat. Passing it on is the easiest good thing you'll do today. It's safe to forward, and stands on its own as a record for a bank or the police.