Student Debt in the States

I just had to do 'exit counseling' online for my student loans. I worked my way through my undergrad so this is the first time I've ever had debt. It's scary. Lots of my friends in the UK don't get my trepidation, as there are some ways to circumvent the system here. However, my exit counseling has assured me that, though bankers will be bailed out in the US, my debt will not be forgiven, unless:

Stafford Exit Topic 5 of 6: Loan Cancellation

You are generally obligated to repay your student loan, regardless of what happens. In fact, federal student loans usually are not even discharged or cancelled due to bankruptcy. However, there are a few situations in which your loan may be cancelled:

• You die
• You are totally and permanently disabled (requires certification from a physician and is subject to a conditional period of three years)
• Your school fails to pay a refund if you withdraw
• You are unable to complete your program of study due to school closure
• Your loan was falsely certified as a result of identity theft
• Your school falsely certified or fraudulently completed a loan application in your name without your approval