Most student loan debt relief programs can work best when you contact them before defaulting on your loan. If your having difficulty making your student loan payment you should contract the lender first. Not paying on a federal loan could cause garnishment of wages, tax refund defered & even being sued. Know that Bankruptcy won't clear you from a student loan debt. If your loan is in default contact www.ombudsman.ed.gov  Debt Relief Programs A hardship letter to request a reduced or adjustment of payments is the right step. For federal loans go to www.finaid.org. The Income Contingent Repayment Plan can help those who qualify. In July 2009 a Income Based Repayment Program will help borrowers in other ways. Please contact every Lender of your student loan before defaulting. They should be willing to work something out for you. You may want to contact a non-profit counselor for student loan advice at www.nfcc.org  Don't have the Income to Pay your Loan
College Loan control can come in a way you've never thought of. Remember that these loans won't go away, even bankruptcy won't make them disappear. Find out about their Student Loan Replacement Program (SLRP). The Military, Navy, Air Force & Army have a program in place to help re-paying your student loan when you enlist. At: SLRP
Financial Aid Application You can apply for student loans through the FAFSA program.

You must have your student loans under control before you consider a home purchase.  Get the lowest interest rate so your payments are easily managed.   Then do a DTI ratio to find out how much home you can afford.  See my featured listings and the MLS Listings.  It's possible to find a home for sale that fits into the budget you managing for rent.