<p>Our D is living proof that loan repayment can begin during residency. She is an intern and began payments after about six months. It is income-based, and she pays around $500 each month. Her apartment/garage takes a good chunk of her salary - safety was important so the extra amount here is well worth it. Luckily, she does not have a car payment and we still pay insurance for the car. H still makes sure everything is in good working order. We also pay for her cell phone, as it is a small amount added to our family plan. Her refrigerator is not well stocked because she works so much that she does not eat too many meals at home, so her grocery bills are small. Somehow, she still manages to have a happy and active social life when she is not working - meals out with friends, travel, etc. When S finishes undergrad, H and I will be able to help her more if needed. We paid for her undergrad and are doing the same for S now.</p>