Student loan forgiveness refers to programs that cancel or discharge a portion or all of a borrower's outstanding student loan debt. These programs are typically offered by the federal government or, less commonly, by individual states or institutions. Eligibility requirements vary widely depending on the specific program, often based on factors like income, employment in public service, disability, or the type of loan. While student loan forgiveness can provide significant financial relief, it's important to understand the eligibility criteria, application process, potential tax implications, and limitations of each program before applying.