Gov. Ned Lamont and the Connecticut Office of Higher Education announced that the Connecticut Student Loan Reimbursement Program has opened a new grant round and is accepting applications for student loan payments made during the 2025 calendar year.

Established in 2024, the program provides direct financial relief to Connecticut residents burdened by student loan debt. Eligible applicants may receive reimbursement grants of up to $5,000 per year, with a maximum of $20,000 over four years.

A new grant round launches annually, covering payments made during the preceding calendar year.

“The Connecticut Student Loan Reimbursement Program is about helping people who have worked hard, earned their education, and chosen to build their lives and careers here in our state,” Lamont said. “As we enter a new year of the program, we remain committed to easing financial pressure on residents while strengthening our workforce and economy.”

Applicants may qualify if they:

• Are Connecticut residents and meet program residency requirements;
• Made qualifying student loan payments during the 2025 calendar year;
• Earned a degree from a Connecticut institution of higher education or completed a state-approved program required for professional licensure or certification;
• Meet income limits of $125,000 for single filers or $175,000 for married filers; and
• Completed required community service or qualify for a hardship waiver under certain circumstances.

“Our focus at the Connecticut Office of Higher Education has been administering this program in a fair, transparent and accessible manner,” Connecticut Higher Education Commissioner Timothy Larson said. “As demand continues to grow, we are committed to providing clear guidance, timely application reviews and high-quality support so borrowers can successfully navigate the process and receive the relief for which they are eligible.”

“Many borrowers are still navigating repayment following the return of federal student loan payments, and programs like this can provide critical relief,” Connecticut Student Loan Ombudsperson Michelle Jarvis-Lettman said. “My office will continue working closely with borrowers to help them understand their options. This program offers a tangible way for eligible residents to reduce their student loan burden while remaining engaged in their communities.”

Since its first grant round launched in January 2025, the program has awarded more than $2.2 million in reimbursements statewide, with strong participation among younger residents and middle-income households.

Legislative updates enacted during the most recent session expanded eligibility and clarified that reimbursements apply to payments made during the preceding calendar year.

Applications must be submitted online through the CT Scholars portal. Applicants are required to complete the online application and upload supporting documentation.

For full application instructions, visit the Connecticut Office of Higher Education website at portal.ct.gov/ohe. Questions may be directed to OHE.SLRP@ct.gov.