Loan Repayment Assistance

Work in the public interest is a valuable and fulfilling career option, and the University of Chicago Law School is committed to making such options available for its graduates. One obstacle is the large educational debt many undertake to pay for their undergraduate and graduate education. In response, the Law School created a unique and generous program to assist its graduates who pursue careers in the public interest.

The Hormel Public Interest Program, or "HPIP," is not a traditional loan repayment assistance program. There is not a lengthy time requirement to receive benefits, and benefits are provided regardless of spousal income or potential family contributions. We like to think that the HPIP approach is the best way to support and encourage our graduates.

Brief Summary: HPIP started in 2007. It replaced the University of Chicago Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP). Starting with the Class of 2010, HPIP provides a benefit in the form of an interest-free loan of up to $10,000 a year, with each year’s loan fully forgiven one year after it is made—provided that the graduate remains in a qualifying public interest job. Benefits under HPIP are available to reduce law school debt for those who work in qualifying jobs at salaries below $72,000, and for as many as seven of the eight years following graduation, for a potential total of $70,000. The benefit is available regardless of parental, spousal, or other income.

If you're interested in learning more about HPIP, you can find out more about the program's requirements and restrictions.