There may be a lot of similarities between the two, but there are significant differences you should be aware of before you apply for either of them.  - Both deferment and forbearance are temporary. Deferment can last up to 36 months, but forbearance lasts up to 12 months.  - Most federal loans like PLUS, Perkins and Stafford offer both programs and are often written into the terms of your loan. However, private lenders are not obligated to offer either of these programs. If you have a student loan with a private lender, you will have to contact them directly to find out whether you are eligible for either program.  - Once you apply for either deferment or forbearance, you must continue to make your student loan payments until your application has been approved. If you fail to do so you may default on your loan and your credit score will be negatively impacted.  - If you are in default on your student loan - you have not made a payment in 270 days - you will not be able to qualify for either deferment or forbearance.