Under most circumstances, you will have to pay back your student education loans.  That said, if you are adjudicated disabled, you can have your loans excused.  As an example, if you have a terminal illness, you would apply to the Social Security Administration for disability benefits.  You may also be able to obtain relief from student loans if you are in some kind of accident that leaves you incapable of working.  Typically, you will need to go for exams and testing with a pre-designated physician.  In most cases, you will need to recertify for disability status each year.  Once you are approved for benefits, you can then ask your lender to excuse your student loans for that time period.