Trying to get through on the helpline for residential school survivor education credits is proving to be quite a challenge.

The credits are part of the Indian residential schools settlement agreement.

The phone lines are jammed as people scramble to beat the Oct. 31 deadline.

If you do get though, chances are you will receive little more than a voice recording that says phone traffic is extremely heavy and to wait on the line for the next available operator.

The other option is to leave your name and number and hope you receive a call back within 48 hours.

Former residential school students are eligible for a $3,000 educational credit paid directly to a school of their choice or a cultural program.

The credit can also be used by the child or grandchild of a former residential school student.

The Assembly of First Nations is urging residential school survivors to get their applications for the program in as soon as possible.

The education credit helpline number is 1-866-343-1858.

Applications are required to be in the mail by the end of the month.