When President Hinckley announced the Perpetual Education Fund, he specified the type of education that would be supported:

"Initially, most of these students will attend technical schools where they will learn such things as computer science, refrigeration engineering, and other skills which are in demand and for which they can become qualified. The plan may later be extended to training for the professions" (Ensign, May 2001, 52).

The initial goal of the PEF is to help you get into an appropriate school that will qualify you for a great job in the area where you live. For the most part, your education should be completed in one to two years, although PEF loans can be approved for up to four years. There are hundreds of subjects to study, including medical technology, appliance repair, construction management, computer networks, and many more. With specific training in the field of your choice, you will get a much better job. And that will help you better serve your family, the Church, and your community.

For those who see a need for a traditional university degree, the PEF can help in two ways. First, you could attend a vocational school, gain a skill, get a better job, and then pay for your college degree without a loan. Second, the former International Education Fund (IEF) of the Church Educational System has been absorbed by the PEF. Those who have already received IEF loans may apply to renew those loans. A limited number of new loans may also be given for university degrees under the new PEF B program. Please talk with your institute of religion director about these opportunities. He will show you how to use this Web site to apply for these loans, if they are available in your area.

How to apply for a loan

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