SREB – Regional Contract Forgivable Loan for Optometry

Eligibility

• Be a legal resident of Mississippi for at least one year prior to application.
• Be fully admitted to an approved out-of-state SREB School of Optometry.
• Enroll full-time in the approved optometry program.
• Be offered a Mississippi SREB Regional Contract seat by the attending institution.
• Make satisfactory academic progress to maintain eligibility.
• Be in good standing on any prior federal, state, or local educational loan.
• Agree to practice optometry full-time in Mississippi after completing the optometry degree.

Requirements

• Complete the Mississippi Aid Application through MAAPP each academic year.
• Obtain admission to an approved out-of-state SREB School of Optometry.
• Provide required Mississippi residency documentation.
• Accept a designated Mississippi Regional Contract seat through the participating institution.
• Sign a Master Contract and Note if selected for an award.
• Sign a Private Loan Self-Certification Form for each year funding is received.
• Complete the required Mississippi optometry service obligation after graduation.

How to Apply

1. 1Apply to and receive admission from an approved SREB School of Optometry.
2. 2Receive designation from the institution as a Mississippi resident offered a Regional Contract seat.
3. 3Complete the Mississippi Aid Application through MAAPP beginning October 1.
4. 4Submit required Mississippi residency documentation.
5. 5Submit the state aid application by March 31.
6. 6Ensure all required supporting documents are received by June 30.
7. 7If selected and funding is available, sign the required Master Contract and Note.
8. 8Complete the annual Private Loan Self-Certification Form.
9. 9After completing the optometry degree, practice optometry full-time in Mississippi for one year for each year of funding received.