In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a U.S. citizen (or U.S. national or permanent resident) and have a M.D., Ph.D., Psy. D., Pharm. D., D.O., D.D.S., D.M.D., D.P.M., D.C., N.D., O.D., D.V.M., or equivalent doctoral degree from an accredited institution. You must also certify your disadvantaged background status by submitting a written statement from your health professions school, documentation that you received Loans for Disadvantaged Students, or documentation that you received a scholarship from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under the Scholarship for Individuals with Exceptional Financial Need.