relax, 10-15 k is not a big amount , if both of you work it only takes few months to pay off. I know a friend of mine U.S citizen who filed a Bankruptcy for 154 k few weeks ago. First of all what's her status in the usa now? does she have to go to a school again. if she does then she definately needs to pay that before they release the hold to transfer or register. Since the amount of the loan is not that huge i would say try to talk to the university and try to come up with a pay plan, pay minimum payments to the credit cards. if not whatever, you gotta eat and live too, stop worrying and change your phone number. for wage garnishment it takes about 9-12 months , cuz they have to take you to court. if you can make money in 9-12 months then it's ok.