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Healthcare is a lucrative field with many in-demand specialties, but completing the necessary schooling to achieve licensure in nursing and other medical careers often comes with hefty student loans that eat away at your paychecks for years. Luckily, the federal government offers several loan forgiveness programs for nurses. You may also qualify for state-level loan forgiveness programs depending on where you live and your position.
All 50 states either provide some type of state-level student loan forgiveness program or act as a liaison for national programs. Loan forgiveness programs help nurses and other medical workers combat the debt they took on to enter the healthcare field and help ease the national shortage of nurses and healthcare professionals. Program goals are often to place nurses and healthcare providers in state-designated medically underserved areas (MUAs) and/or federally-designated Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs).
Since these are state-based programs, applicants often must be residents of the state and/or commit to at least two years of service. Thus, travel nurses and travel allied health professionals won’t qualify. To take advantage of state loan forgiveness, travelers should apply within their home states and complete the program’s commitment before they begin traveling. Going this route works out well for new graduates since most travel positions require at least one year of experience and some prefer two years before they can apply.
This guide explores each state’s program, including eligibility requirements, terms, loan repayment/forgiveness amounts, eligible loans and where to apply. For states that only act as liaisons for national programs, it provides details on how to apply for the national programs.
Click on your state below to learn whether you qualify for loan forgiveness.
Alabama
Advanced Practice Nursing Loan Repayment Program – Statewide LRP is only available for advanced practice nurses, including certified registered nurse practitioners (CRNPs), certified nurse midwives (CNMs) or certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs).
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Maintain employment in an area of critical need throughout the 18-month obligation period | Up to $15,000 per 18-month commitment | Loans issued by the State of Alabama |
How to Apply: Applications must be completed electronically on the ABN website annually between July 1 and August 31.
For More Information
Contact the Alabama Nursing Board
Phone: (800) 656-5318
Email: [email protected]
Alaska
Supporting Health Care Access Through Loan Repayment – SHARP-1 is a statewide support-for-service program providing partial financial support to healthcare practitioners in medical, dental and behavioral health disciplines. Nurses fall under the Tier 2 healthcare profession.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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2-year service commitment with an employer who provides outpatient, clinic-based care and is willing to pay employer match | Hard-to-fill positions:
Regular positions:
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How to Apply: Submit a SHARP Inquiry to obtain an application.
For More Information
Contact Robert Sewell, Ph.D., Program Director
Phone: (907) 465-4065
Email: [email protected]
Arizona
Arizona State Loan Repayment Program (SLRP):
Primary Care Provider Loan Repayment Program (PCPLRP) – Advanced Practice Providers and Behavioral Health Providers currently working or will be working for a public/private non-profit entity providing services in a federally designated HPSA in Arizona.
Rural Private Primary Care Provider Loan Repayment Program (RPPCPLRP) – Advanced Practice Providers and Behavioral Health Providers currently working or will be working for a private primary care practice in a federally designated HPSA in Arizona.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Contract with the Arizona Department of Human Services to provide full-time or part-time outpatient primary care services at an approved service site for at least 2 years | Full-Time: 1st 2 Years: $40,000-$50,000 3rd Year: $20,000-$25,000 4th Year: $16,000-$20,000 5th Year & more: $8,000-$10,000 Half-Time: 1st 2 Years: $20,000-$25,000 3rd Year: $10,000-$12,500 4th Year: $8,000-$10,000 5th Year & more: $4,000-$5,000 |
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How to Apply: SLRP applications are available online, with Online Service Site Registration open annually from January 1 through February 28/29 and the Online Provider Application open annually from mid-April to June 1. All applicants must register at Arizona Procurement Portal (APP). For technical support, contact the Arizona Procurement Portal (APP) Help Desk or call (602) 542-7600.
For More Information
Contact Erin Gonsalves
Phone: (602) 542-1211
Email: [email protected]
Edith Di Santo
Phone: (602) 542-1066
Email: [email protected]
Arkansas
The Office of Rural Health & Primary Care (ORHPC) in Arkansas serves as the state liaison for the National Health Service Corps (NHSC). Its goal is to place nurses and other healthcare providers in medically underserved areas and health professional shortage areas in rural parts of the state. ORHPC matches health professionals with clinical sites in HPSAs, often in exchange for 10s of 1,000s of dollars in loan repayment benefits in exchange for a service commitment.
How to Apply: Healthy Arkansas provides a Federal Loan Repayment and Scholarship Program presentation with more information on the national programs the state participates in.
For More Information
Visit the National Health Services Corps Loan Repayment website
California
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Loan Repayment Program – The BSNLRP offered through the Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI) supports registered nurses (RNs) in California. Applicants must commit to a service contract of 12 months or longer, working full-time and providing direct patient care in a qualified California facility.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Commit to a 12-month service obligation in a medically underserved area, providing at least 32 hours (full-time) of direct patient care | Maximum award $15,000 |
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Licensed Vocational Nurse Loan Repayment Program (LVNLRP) – The LVNLRP through the HCAI increases the number of appropriately trained LVNs in California to provide direct patient care at qualified facilities.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Commit to a 12-month service obligation in a medically underserved area, providing at least 32 hours (full-time) of direct patient care | Maximum award $8,000 |
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How to Apply: Complete and submit an application through the web-based eApp on the HCAI Funding Portal by the deadline.
For More Information
Phone: (916) 326-3700
Email: [email protected]
Colorado
Colorado Health Service Corps (CHSC) – Eligible health professionals may qualify to receive repayment of qualified student loans if they work in an HPSA, providing direct clinical care to patients in underserved areas for three years.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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For APRNs, PAs, pharmacists, licensed mental health providers and licensed or certified addiction counselors |
Federal or private loans obtained for education and related expenses in discipline of current practice |
How to Apply: Qualified providers must apply electronically using the Colorado Health Service Corps application. They must provide a personal statement, CV/resume, two letters of support and updated lender statements. Application cycles are open throughout the entire months of March and September each year.
For More Information
Emai: [email protected]
Connecticut
Nursing Education Loan Repayment Program – The Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) in Connecticut is an eligible employer for nursing students and RNs applying for federal education loans through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). Unlike other states, Connecticut’s program currently only focuses on mental and behavioral health.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
Nurses working for an eligible DMHAS:
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Two years, full-time employment, with a third-year extension available | Full-Time 2 Years:
Repays 60% of student loans Full-Time 3rd Year: Additional 25% repayment |
Government and private commercial loans for tuition and reasonable educational and living expenses incurred while attending a school of nursing where the applicant obtained nursing education or while taking prerequisite courses at schools other than a school of nursing where the applicant received academic credit but didn’t obtain a non-nursing degree. |
How to Apply: Submit application forms to:
- CVH: Robert Paolitto, 860-262-5867 or [email protected]
- CMHC: Donna Zwilling, 203-974-7637 or [email protected]
- SWCTMHS: Irena Baj-Wright, 860-262-5907 or [email protected]
For More Information
Phone: (800) 221-9393
Email: [email protected]
Delaware
Delaware State Loan Repayment Program – The Delaware Health Care Commission (DHCC) serves as the lead administrative entity for the state’s SLRP. Qualified dental, behavioral/mental health and primary care professionals with advanced or mid-level degrees are eligible to apply.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
| Open to RNs, CNMs, health services psychologists (HSPs), licensed alcohol and drug abuse counselors (LADCs), licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), LPCs, LMFTs, NPs, pharmacists, PAs and psychiatric nurse specialists | Minimum of 2 consecutive years of full-time (40 hours) or half-time (20-39 hours) service in federally designated HPSAs across the State | $30,000 to $100,000 | Government and commercial loans incurred while obtaining an education in an eligible health profession/discipline |
How to Apply: The DHCC continuously accepts applications for the Delaware SLRP. However, applications are due annually by March 15 or September 15 to meet contract deadlines. Must complete a packet consisting of a completed Part A: Practice Site Application Form, Part B: Health Professional Application Form and Part C: Loan Verification Form. Applicants may email all three forms to [email protected], but Part C may be mailed or faxed.
Delaware Health Care Provider Loan Repayment Program (HCPLRP) – Delaware also established the HCPLRP in August 2021 for new primary care providers with an advanced or mid-level degree. The DHCC serves as the lead administrative entity on the HCPLRP. It determines applicant eligibility based on the contents of their applications.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Government and commercial loans incurred while obtaining an education in an eligible health profession/discipline |
How to Apply: The DHCC accepts HCPLRP applications on six-week rolling intervals, with current deadlines set for June 1 and September 1, 2023. Must complete a packet consisting of a completed Part A: Practice Site Application Form, Part B: Health Professional Application Form and Part C: Loan Verification Form. Applicants may email all three forms to [email protected], but Part C may be mailed or faxed.
For More Information
Email: [email protected]
Florida
Nursing Student Loan Forgiveness Program (NSLFP) – Florida’s NSLFP offers a smaller loan forgiveness amount compared to other state programs but has fewer limitations on the types of nursing degrees applicants can have and sites where they can work.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Work full-time at designated employment sites for one full year | Up to $4,000 per year for a maximum of 4 years | Any loans from state or federal programs or commercial lending institutions used for nursing education |
How to Apply: The deadlines to enroll are the 1st of March, June, September and December. Renewal deadlines are the 31st of January, April, July and October. Applicants must mail their completed paper applications to Florida Department of Education, Office of Student Financial Assistance, 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1340, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0400.
For More Information
Phone: (850) 245-1962
E-mail: [email protected]
Georgia
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Loan Repayment Program (APRNLRP) – Georgia’s APRNLRP is open to advanced practice RNs who must provide direct care to patients in a medically underserved, rural area of the state. The amount awarded may be used to repay tuition, fees and other expenses related to the completion of an APRN degree. The APRNLRP is available on a first-come, first-served basis, with the State of Georgia as the sole funder for the program.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Full-Time: Minimum of 40 hours weekly, with at least 32 hours providing direct patient care |
$10,000 per year, renewable for up to 4 years for a maximum repayment of $40,000 | Outstanding APRN education loans |
How to Apply: Applicants must apply on the Georgia Board of Healthcare Workforce website during open application periods, which runs from September 1 through October 31 annually.
For More Information
Contact Yvette Speight, Contract Administrator
Phone: (404) 463-1057
Email: [email protected]
Hawaii
Hawaii State Loan Repayment Program (HSLRP) – The HSLRP is a federal grant primary care and behavioral health providers can use to pay off educational loans if they provide patient care at public or non-profit private organizations in designated HPSAs. Practice sites must see all patients regardless of their ability to pay and accept Medicare, Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Full-Time: Up to $50,000 a year without a tax burdenHalf-Time: 20 hours weekly, half repayment amount and double service commitment |
Educational loans |
How to Apply: Complete the HSLRP Primary Care Health Professional Application and attach supporting documentation. Fax to (808) 692-1258 or mail to Hawaii Pacific Basin AHEC, HAWAII SLRP, 651 Ilalo Street MEB 224M, Honolulu, HI 96813-5525.
Hawaii Innovative Loan Repayment Program (HILRP) – The HILRP is a new form of loan repayment using state and personal funding as a match for funding from community organizations that provide an LRP for healthcare providers in private practice who don’t qualify for the NHSCP or current SLRPs. Initial eligibility is determined via background and credit history checks.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Varies based on funding | Educational loans |
How to Apply: Complete the HSLRP Primary Care Health Professional Application and attach supporting documentation. Fax to (808) 692-1258 or mail to Hawaii Pacific Basin AHEC, HAWAII SLRP-HILRP, 651 Ilalo Street MEB 224M, Honolulu, HI 96813-5525.
For More Information
Phone: (808) 692-1060
Idaho
Idaho State Loan Repayment Program – The SLRP in Idaho is a federal grant open to nurses and clinicians working in federally-designated HPSAs. Participating sites must accept Medicaid and Medicare and offer a sliding fee scale for low-income and uninsured patients.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Up to $25,000 per year for 2 years based on debt amount and award selection | Verifiable medical school loans |
How to Apply: All applications must be submitted via Key Survey. Faxed, emailed, mailed or hand-delivered applications won’t be accepted or reviewed.
For More Information
Contact the Bureau of Rural Health & Primary Care
Phone: (208) 334-0669
Phone: [email protected]
Illinois
Veterans’ Home Medical Providers’ Loan Repayment Program – Illinois’ SLRP is strictly for medical providers who work in the State of Illinois veterans’ homes. Approved veterans’ homes for this program are in Anna, LaSalle, Manteno and Quincy.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Annual commitment up to a maximum of 4 years | Up to $5,000 per year, not to exceed the outstanding balance on eligible loans |
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How to Apply: Download and print the current Veterans’ Home Medical Providers’ Loan Repayment Program Application and submit completed application and required documentation to the Illinois Student Assistance Commission’s Deerfield office at 1755 Lake Cook Road, Department D.
For More Information
Phone: (800) 899-4722
Email: [email protected]
Indiana
Indiana State Loan Repayment Program (IN-SLRP) – The IN-SLRP acts as a workforce retention program, encouraging full-time delivery of primary care, mental and dental healthcare services in exchange for loan repayment. It’s open to NPs, CNMs, RNs, PAs, PNSs and certain mental health professionals. Monies may be used for outstanding student loans from undergraduate or graduate studies.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Up to $20,000 per 2-year service commitment, renewable once for a total of up to $40,000 | Outstanding student loans incurred during undergraduate or graduate education |
How to Apply: Apply online by completing an application and submitting required documents. Indiana accepts applications on a rolling basis.
For More Information
Contact Gabby Long, IN-SLRP Manager
Email: [email protected]
Iowa
Health Care Award Program – Iowa’s Health Care Award Program requires a commitment of five consecutive years, one of the longer requirements nationally. The state defines service commitment areas as a city with a population of less than 26,000 located more than 20 miles from a city with a population of 50,000 or more. Applicants may be students in their final year or licensed providers who agree to practice in a service commitment area. Monies are disbursed directly to the applicant and are taxable.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Must commit to 5 consecutive years practicing in a service commitment area or eligible Iowa college or university if you’re a nurse educator | Up to $6,000 per year for up to 5 consecutive years | Education loans |
How to Apply: Complete and file an Iowa Health Care Award Program application by the annual March 31 deadline.
Primary Care Provider Loan Repayment Program – Iowa’s Primary Care Provider LRP improves access to primary healthcare among underserved populations by assisting with the repayment of educational loans to primary care medical, dental and mental health practitioners. This program functions within the Iowa Department of Public Health Deputy Director’s Office in the Bureau of Policy and Workforce Services.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Must practice at an eligible site
Full-Time: Half-Time: |
Maximum Award $40,000 for APRNs, NPs, CNMs, PNSs, PAs and HSPs
Maximum award $30,000 for RNs, LCSWs, LISWs, LMSWs, LPCs, LMFTs and Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselors |
Qualifying government and commercial loans obtained for tuition and reasonable educational and living expenses |
How to Apply: Applications must be completed and submitted within the IowaGrants system.
For More Information
Phone: (877) 272-4456
Email: [email protected]
Kansas
Kansas State Loan Repayment Program – Kansas’ SLRP offers assistance to eligible healthcare professionals with the repayment of qualifying educational loans with a minimum commitment of two years. The goal is to recruit and retain medical, nursing, behavioral/mental health and dental professionals at eligible federally-designated HPSAs throughout the state. Program participants receive funds in a lump sum annually to be used as payment towards eligible student loans.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Full-Time:
Minimum 40 hours, 45 weeks annually, with 32 hours spent in direct patient care Commit to a minimum of 2 years providing care at a Critical Access Hospital with an outpatient clinic or a public or non-profit facility that provides care regardless of a patient’s ability to pay or insurance type |
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Federal, state or local government student loans or commercial student loans for undergraduate or graduate healthcare education covering tuition, other reasonable educational expenses and reasonable living expenses, including consolidated loans belonging solely to the program participant |
How to Apply: Kansas accepts Healthcare Professional Applications year-round, following a quarterly cycle. Applicants must submit a completed application and all supporting documentation by the 15th of the month in which a quarter ends for contracts beginning the subsequent quarter. Submit all documents to State Loan Repayment Program, Office of Primary Care & Rural Health, Bureau of Community Health Systems, 1000 SW Jackson Street, Suite 340, Topeka, KS 66612-1365.
For More Information
Email: [email protected]
Kentucky
Kentucky State Loan Repayment Program (KSLRP) – The Kentucky Office of Rural Health administers the KSLRP, which has served as a recruitment and retention tool in Kentucky since 2003. It helps reduce healthcare workforce shortages in rural and underserved communities throughout the state. Applicants must commit to 2 years of providing full-time primary care services at an eligible practice site in exchange for tax-free student loan repayment.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Federal, state or local government student loans or commercial student loans for undergraduate or graduate healthcare education covering tuition, other reasonable educational expenses and reasonable living expenses, including consolidated loans belonging solely to the program participant |
How to Apply: New applicants must complete the Kentucky State Loan Repayment Program Provider Application (New). Applications must be typed and hand-signed. Handwritten and/or electronically signed applications won’t be accepted. Completed applications and all supporting documents must be saved in a single PDF file with the filename: ApplicantLastName_KSLRP2022 and submitted electronically to [email protected]. Applications are due by September 1 each year, and awardees must begin work no later than January 1 of the following year.
For More Information
Contact Lisa Garza
Phone: (606) 439-3557
Email: [email protected]
Louisiana
Louisiana State Loan Repayment Program – Healthcare professionals serving in HPSAs in rural and underserved facilities across Louisiana may be eligible for SLRP, which repays government or commercial student loans. Louisiana’s program requires a three-year commitment, with an additional two-year renewal available. Participants receive funds quarterly following receipt of their quarterly service report.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Educational loans from certified governmental or commercial lenders incurred during the completion of their graduate, medical or undergraduate degrees and used for tuition, other reasonable education expenses and reasonable living expenses |
How to Apply: Upload all required documents using the online application or download an application and mail it and accompanying documentation to: Louisiana Department of Health, ATTN: Well-Ahead Louisiana Primary Care Office, PO Box 3118, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-3118.
For More Information
Phone: (844) 522-4323
Email: [email protected]
Maine
Nursing Education Loan Repayment Program (NELRP) – The Finance Authority of Maine (FAME) administers the state’s NELRP to provide student loan repayment assistance to RNs working in Maine as nurse educators or relocating to Maine to work as nurse educators at nursing education programs. The program offers a one-time selection paid over three years without any renewals available.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Sign a statement of intent to FAME to work as full-time nursing faculty for a minimum of three years in a nursing education program in Maine |
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Loans incurred while earning MSN or DNS |
How to Apply: Must apply online by completing an application and uploading PDF files or scanned copies of official transcripts, resume, Maine nursing license, proof of full-time employment or employment offer and evidence of outstanding education loans with dates of education for MSN or DNS degree. Application cycles end on September 1 and April 1.
For More Information
Phone: (800) 228-3734
Email: [email protected]
Maryland
Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program (LARP) – The Janet L. Hoffman LARP provides state assistance in the repayment of education loans for applicants providing public service in eligible employment fields, including nurses. Recipients must serve low-income or underserved residents of Maryland throughout their 3-year commitment.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Must commit to 3 years of service |
Total Debt:
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All higher education student loans not in default |
How to Apply: Complete an online LARP application through a Maryland College Aid Processing System account. Application and all supporting documents must be submitted through a secure upload to the Office of Student Financial Assistance by October 1.
For More Information
Phone: (410) 767-3300
Email: [email protected]
Massachusetts
Massachusetts Loan Repayment Program (MLRP) for Health Professionals – The MLRP offers loan repayment for primary healthcare professionals in various medical and mental health disciplines. The goal is to incentivize health professionals to practice in communities with significant shortages of healthcare providers and barriers to healthcare access.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Commit to practicing 2 years full-time or the equivalent extended commitment part-time, such as 4 years at 20 hours weekly | Up to $50,000 for a two-year contract
Award amounts vary by discipline Awards are never larger than the outstanding loan balance |
Health professional student loans |
How to Apply: Apply online through the Department of Public Health (DPH) during an open application cycle. Email the DPH to be notified when the next cycle opens if trying to apply after the current cycle closes.
For More Information
Email: [email protected]
Michigan
Michigan State Loan Repayment Program (MSLRP) – The MSLRP helps employers recruit and retain primary medical and mental healthcare providers by providing loan repayment to those entering into service obligations. Healthcare providers may participate in the MSLRP and the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program at the same time.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Up to $300,000 in tax-free funds to repay educational debt over a period of up to 10 years |
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How to Apply: Application dates change yearly, so the MSLRP Application Period Update announces the dates of the upcoming annual application period every November. Applicants must complete the Provider Application: Part A and Provider Application: Part B forms. MSLRP applications must be uploaded via the File Transfer Application through the State of Michigan MILogin system to submit to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
For More Information
Contact Brittany Brookshire at [email protected]
Minnesota
Minnesota Health Care Loan Forgiveness Programs – The Minnesota Office of Rural Health and Primary Care grants loan forgiveness to various healthcare professionals serving in high-need areas. All awardees must begin service obligation no later than March 31 following selection for the program. The following programs include nurses in various fields.
Long Term Care Nurse Loan Forgiveness Program
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Government, commercial and foundation loans for actual costs paid for tuition, reasonable education and living expenses related to the graduate or undergraduate education of the nurse |
Minnesota Rural Advanced Practice Provider Loan Forgiveness
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
| NP, PNS, CNM, nurse anesthetist, advanced clinical nurse specialist or PA |
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Government, commercial and foundation loans for actual costs paid for tuition, reasonable education and living expenses related to the graduate or undergraduate education of the advanced practice provider |
Minnesota Rural Public Health Nurse Loan Forgiveness
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Government, commercial and foundation loans for actual costs paid for tuition, reasonable education and living expenses related to the graduate or undergraduate education of the public health nurse |
Minnesota Urban Advanced Practice Provider
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
| Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner |
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Government, commercial and foundation loans for actual costs paid for tuition, reasonable education and living expenses related to the graduate or undergraduate education of the PNS |
How to Apply: Application cycles for all Minnesota Health Care Loan Forgiveness Programs open on November 1 annually and close on January 6. Applications are made available during active application cycles.
Minnesota State Loan Repayment Program – The Minnesota SLRP is separate from the Minnesota Health Care Loan Forgiveness Programs and is designed for primary care providers practicing in rural and urban HPSAs in Minnesota.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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How to Apply: SLRP application cycles open in November annually and close in January. The annual SLRP Program Information Notice provides exact details on when to apply. During an active application cycle, go to the Grants Portal, click “Create an Account” and complete the online application.
For More Information
Email: [email protected]
Mississippi
Nursing Education Forgivable Loan Program – Mississippi’s Nursing Education Forgivable Loan Program works differently because it starts as a state-provided student loan that can be forgiven in exchange for working as a professional nurse in the state. The program offers five levels based on where an applicant is in their nursing education. All applicants must be legal Mississippi residents for one year prior to application. Forgivable loan recipients who choose not to fulfill the service obligation must repay the loan in full with interest.
Nursing Education Forgivable Loan, BSN (NELB)
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Mississippi Nursing Education Forgivable Loans |
Nursing Education Forgivable Loan, RN to BSN (NELR)
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Mississippi Nursing Education Forgivable Loans |
Nursing Education Forgivable Loan, MSN (NELM)
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Mississippi Nursing Education Forgivable Loans |
Nursing Education Forgivable Loan, RN to MSN (NERM)
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Mississippi Nursing Education Forgivable Loans |
Nursing Education Forgivable Loan, Ph.D./DNP (NELP)
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Mississippi Nursing Education Forgivable Loans |
How to Apply: Complete a Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid application online. Application cycles run from October 1 to March 31 annually.
For More Information
Phone: (800) 327-2980
Missouri
Nurse Loan Repayment Program (NLRP) – Missouri’s NLRP awards funding to qualifying licensed Missouri RNs and APRNs for the repayment of eligible educational loans. NLRP recipients earn forgiveness on loan repayments through service obligations of at least two years.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Government or commercial loans for school tuition, reasonable education expenses and reasonable living expenses, segregated from all other debts |
How to Apply: Applications are accepted from January 1 to March 1 annually. Complete the Application for the Missouri Health Nurse Loan Repayment Program and attach the required documentation. Application packets may be submitted electronically during the application cycle. Applicants may also scan and email their application packets to [email protected] or fax them to (573) 522-8146. They may also mail them to Attn: NLRP Program, Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, Office of Rural Health & Primary Care, PO Box 570, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0570.
For More Information
Phone: (800) 891-7415
Email: [email protected] (preferred)
Montana
Montana State Loan Repayment Program – The Montana SLRP is for primary care providers working at approved National Health Service Corps or Montana SLRP practice sites in HPSAs. The HRSA funds Montana’s SLRP with matching from state and community funds.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Loans obtained during the course of graduate education |
How to Apply: Complete a Montana State Loan Repayment Program Candidate Application using the fillable PDF format. Handwritten applications won’t be accepted. Scan and email your complete application package to the Montana Primary Care Office at [email protected].
For More Information
Phone: (406) 444-3934
Email: [email protected]
Nebraska
Nebraska State Loan Repayment – Nebraska’s loan repayment program is available to primary care, mental health and some allied health professionals practicing in shortage areas in the state. The Department of Health and Human Services posts maps of shortage areas by discipline on the loan repayment website.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Up to $90,000 based on $30,000 per year for 3 years | Government or commercial educational loans in the student’s name |
How to Apply: Complete the Application for Health Professional and upload required documentation online.
For More Information
Phone: (402) 471-0778 or (531) 530-7087
Email: [email protected]
Nevada
The Nevada Primary Care Office (PCO) acts as the state liaison for the NHSC Loan Repayment Program and the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program (NCLRP). Staff from the Nevada PCO are available to do presentations on either program on request.
The NHSC Loan Repayment Program application cycle is usually open from January through March. It includes NPs or CNMs with an MSN or post-master’s certificate, LCSWs, PNSs, LMFTs, LPCs and PAs with an associate, a bachelor’s or a master’s degree. The NCLRP application cycle is usually open from January through February and pays down 60% of the qualifying educational loan balance for a 2-year service commitment at a Critical Shortage Facility. Applicants to either program are prioritized based on higher HSPA scores. Nevada has very high HPSA scores in most of the state.
How to Apply: Application forms are available on the Health Resources & Services Administration website.
For More Information
Email: [email protected]
New Hampshire
New Hampshire State Loan Repayment Program – The New Hampshire SLRP provides funds to healthcare professionals willing to commit to a minimum of three years (or two if part-time) working in state-designated MUAs under contract with the state. Healthcare providers must agree to provide medical services to all patients regardless of their ability to pay, offer a sliding-fee discount schedule, accept Medicaid and Medicare and provide free care when medically necessary.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Commit to and sign a binding contract to complete a minimum service obligation of 36 months for full-time service or a minimum obligation of 24 months for part-time service with current practice site |
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Graduate or undergraduate educational loans |
How to Apply: The Division of Public Health Services, Rural Health & Primary Care Section administers New Hampshire’s SLRP. It accepts applications on a rolling basis and reviews them quarterly. Deadlines are March, June, September and December 15. Applicants must complete a paper application and mail it to N.H. Division of Public Health Services, Rural Health & Primary Care Section, 29 Hazen Drive, 2E, Concord, NH 03301-6504. They may also scan and email their completed application and supporting documentation to [email protected], but they must still mail the originals.
For More Information
Email: [email protected]
New Jersey
Primary Care Practitioner Loan Redemption Program (PCPLRP) of New Jersey – The PCPLRP of New Jersey promotes access to primary care services in MUAs of the state by providing for the redemption of qualifying healthcare provider’s eligible student loan expenses in exchange for a specified period of service in these areas.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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How to Apply: Complete the PCPLRP of New Jersey Application and attach supporting documentation, then email to documents to [email protected] or mail to PCPLR Program Officer, Higher Education Student Assistance Authority, PO Box 540, Trenton, NJ 08625-0540.
For More Information
Email: [email protected]
New Mexico
New Mexico Health Professional Loan Repayment Program (HPLRP) – The purpose of the New Mexico HPLRP is to provide repayment for outstanding student loans of practicing healthcare professionals who make a two-year commitment to practice full-time in a designated shortage area in the state. The program gives preference to graduates of New Mexico public postsecondary institutions.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Outstanding student loans of practicing health professionals |
How to Apply: The HPLRP application opens every year on March 15 and closes May 1. Electronic applications must be completed in full and submitted online. The electronic application link is only available on the HPLRP website between March 15 and May 1.
For More Information
Phone: (800) 279-9777
Email: [email protected]
New York
Nurses Across New York (NANY) Loan Repayment Program – The NANY LRP is designed to place RNs and LPNs in medically underserved communities in various settings and specialties. Funding for loan repayment is provided in exchange for the nurse’s commitment to work in an underserved area for a three-year period.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Loans made by or guaranteed by the federal or state government or made by a lending or educational institution approved under Title IV of the federal Higher Education Act |
How to Apply: Must submit written questions electronically to [email protected]. The application consists of the completed Attachments 1 through 12, which must be submitted within one email with each attachment as its own PDF file and attachment named accordingly.
For More Information
Contact Heather Pokrzywka
New York State Department of Health
Division of Workforce Transformation
Empire State Plaza Corning Tower Room 1695
[email protected]
North Carolina
North Carolina State Loan Repayment Program (NC LRP) – The North Carolina Office of Rural Health (ORH) administers the North Carolina SLRP to provide tax-free loan repayment to qualifying providers in exchange for providing comprehensive primary care services in outpatient settings at eligible sites in HPSAs. The state-funded program helps improve the recruitment of medical and behavioral health providers in rural and underserved areas to better provide outpatient primary care services.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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How to Apply: Applications must be received within 5 years of the provider’s start date of employment or within 5 years of completing another service agreement. The North Carolina ORH only accepts electronic applications and uploaded documentation. Applicants must first complete an eligibility questionnaire. Based on those responses, the ORH sends a link via email to the official application.
For More Information
Phone: (919) 527-6440
Email: Interim Program Manager [email protected]
North Dakota
North Dakota Healthcare Professional Loan Repayment Program – The ND Healthcare Professional LRP, administered by the ND Primary Care Office, attempts to increase healthcare providers in medicine, nursing, physician assistant and behavioral health disciplines in areas with defined health professional needs. The program requires a minimum service commitment of 5 years, making it one of the longer commitments in the nation.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Outstanding educational loans from institutional lending agencies of the United States, Canada or other approved countries |
How to Apply: The application cycle for the ND Healthcare Professional LRP opens in December and closes in March. Applicants must complete a North Dakota Service Corps Provider Application Eligibility questionnaire first to determine eligibility for the program.
For More Information
Phone: (701) 805-1071
Email: [email protected]
Ohio
Ohio Health Professional Loan Repayment Program (OHLRP) – The Ohio Department of Health, Primary Care Office administers the OHLRP to increase access to primary care for underserved communities and populations. In exchange for loan repayment assistance, eligible healthcare professionals must commit to practicing for a minimum of two years at an eligible site in an HPSA.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Only institutional or government loans are eligible for the OHLRP, including Stafford, SLS, HEAL, Perkins and others. Loans from individuals aren’t eligible |
How to Apply: Applicants must complete the Ohio Health Professional Loan Repayment Program Application and all other required documentation and return it electronically to [email protected].
For More Information
Phone: (614) 752-5133
E-mail: [email protected]
Oklahoma
The Oklahoma Office of Primary Care and Rural Health Development acts as the liaison for the NHSC health workforce incentive programs in the state. These programs include the NHSC Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program, which helps NPs, RNs and nurse faculty reduce their student loan debt through assisted repayment. In exchange, these nurses agree to work a minimum of two years in healthcare facilities with critical shortages of nurses or an eligible nursing school and nurse faculty.
How to Apply: Application forms are available on the Health Resources & Services Administration website.
For More Information
Contact Marisa New, MPH, OTR
NHSC Liaison, Office of Primary Care & Rural Health Development
Phone: (405) 271-9444 Ext. 56410
Email: [email protected]
Oregon
Oregon Partnership State Loan Repayment Program – The Oregon Partnership SLRP for primary care providers working at approved practice sites in HPSAs across the state. It’s funded through the HRSA and matched by the practice sites of program awardees. In exchange for receiving funds to repay eligible student loans, healthcare providers agree to work a minimum number of years at an eligible practice site.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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How to Apply: Applications are accepted on a first come, first serve ongoing basis. The Oregon Partnership SLRP doesn’t have a closing date; the program continues to grant awards until funds have been exhausted. Applicants must complete an Oregon Partnership SLRP Candidate Application online using the fillable PDF. Handwritten applications aren’t accepted. Accompanying documentation must be scanned and emailed to [email protected] or faxed to (503) 494-479.
For More Information
Contact the Office of Rural Health’s SLRP Coordinator
Phone: (866) 674-4376
Email: [email protected]
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Primary Care Loan Repayment Program – The Pennsylvania Department of Health administers the Pennsylvania Primary Care LRP to recruit and retain primary care practitioners willing to make a commitment to practice in federally designated HPSAs, serving underserved residents of the state for at least 2 years.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Outstanding federal, state or local government or commercial student loans for undergraduate or graduate education obtained by the practitioner used to cover tuition, other reasonable educational expenses and reasonable living expenses |
How to Apply: Submit a Pennsylvania Primary Care Loan Repayment Program Practitioner Application online. To connect to the LRP portal, select the PA Primary Care LRP Web-based Application link from the LRP main webpage, create a user account and fill in all required information to submit the application.
For More Information
Email: [email protected]
Rhode Island
Rhode Island Health Professional Loan Repayment Program – The Rhode Island HPLRP improves access to care for residents by retaining practitioners providing healthcare services in underserved communities while addressing health professional shortages that cause disparities in health. Primary care providers approved for the HPLRP must commit to working at least 2 years in an HPSA.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Government and commercial loans for the actual costs paid for tuition and reasonable educational and living expenses related to the undergraduate or graduate education of the participant leading to a degree in the health profession in which they’re satisfying their service commitment |
How to Apply: Applications are accepted in cycles. If the current application cycle has already closed, applicants may sign up for notification of when the next cycle opens. During an application cycle, applicants must submit an online application and mail supporting documentation to ATTN: Rebeca Vasquez / Manuel Ortiz, Office of Primary Care & Rural Health, Rhode Island Department of Health, 3 Capitol Hill, Room 410, Providence, RI 02908.
For More Information
Phone: (401) 222-5960
South Carolina
Marlboro County General Hospital Loan Repayment Incentives – The South Carolina Area Health Education Consortium (AHEC) uses funds from the Marlboro County General Hospital Foundation to provide student loan repayment to medical practitioners who practice in Marlboro County. The AHEC administers this student loan repayment program to attract medical practitioners to the underserved county.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Qualifying student loans |
How to Apply: Complete the Marlboro County General Hospital Foundation Loan Repayment Application and return to Kristin Cochran at [email protected].
For More Information
Phone: (843) 792-4430
Email: [email protected]
South Dakota
South Dakota State Loan Repayment Program (SD SLRP) – South Dakota’s SLRP is for primary care and mental health providers practicing in rural or urban HPSAs throughout the state. The SD SLRP aims to improve access to primary care by helping recruit and retain primary care providers in underserved communities. The Office of Rural Health, South Dakota Department of Health administers the SD SLRP, with eligibility, requirements and benefits established by federal law. The state program is highly competitive, with limited funding available.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Minimum 2-year service obligation in nonprofit private or public sites located in federally designated HPSAs |
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Qualifying educational loans |
How to Apply: Applications are only available during active application cycles and reviewed and approved on a first-come, first-served basis.
For More Information
Contact Natalie Jung, Program Administrator
Phone: (605) 773-6320
Email: [email protected]
Tennessee
Graduate Nursing Loan Forgiveness Program – Tennessee’s Graduate Nursing Loan Forgiveness Program encouraged RNs living in Tennessee to become teachers and administrators in Tennessee nursing education programs.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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How to Apply: Applications are available on the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation portal and due on March 1 annually.
For More Information
Phone: (800) 342-1663
Email: [email protected]
Texas
Rural Communities Health Care Investment Program (RCHIP) – The Texas Department of Agriculture utilizes funds to help rural communities recruit non-physician healthcare providers through the RCHIP. Healthcare providers who commit to practicing within one of these communities receive partial student loan reimbursement or a stipend.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Commit to practice in a qualifying community (Texas county with a total population of 50,000 or less) for at least 12 consecutive months
Provide services in a county with HPSA or MUA designation |
Up to $10,000 in student loan reimbursement or stipend | Any |
How to Apply: To request an RCHIP application, email [email protected].
For More Information
Email: [email protected]
Utah
Health Care Workforce Financial Assistance Program (HCWFAP) – Utah’s HCWFAP provides assistance with educational loan repayment to healthcare professionals who commit to practicing in underserved areas in the state. Practice sites must also commit to matching 20% of the amount awarded and must be in an HPSA.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Any unpaid student loans that aren’t delinquent or undocumented loans from friends or family |
How to Apply: Medical providers complete an application online to receive financial assistance for their student loans. Application packets must include accompanying documentation.
For More Information
Phone: (801) 230-6570
Email: [email protected]
Vermont
Vermont Educational Loan Repayment Programs (ELRP) for Healthcare Professionals – The Vermont ELRP, administered by the Office of Primary Care and Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) and funded by the State of Vermont through the Department of Health, strives to ensure an adequate supply of healthcare practitioners within the state. Program eligibility and selection criteria can change annually, so each cycle has a separate overview and participant eligibility announcement.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Educational loans obtained through a U.S. student loan program |
How to Apply: Applicants apply through REDCap, a secure web-based application that supports data capture and data management. When uploading required documents, format file names as last name, first name and type of file.
For More Information
Contact Rebecca T. Dubois, Program Coordinator
Phone: (802) 656-2658
Email: [email protected]
Virginia
Virginia State Loan Repayment Program (VA-SLRP) – The Commonwealth of Virginia participates in the HRSA Grants to States for Loan Repayment program. The Virginia Department of Health-Office of Health Equity operates the VA-SLRP to provide a non-taxed incentive to eligible medical and behavioral health professionals in return for a 2-year commitment to practice in a federally designated HPSA in the state.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Government and commercial loans used to pay the actual costs of tuition and reasonable educational and living expenses related to the participant’s education |
How to Apply: The application cycle is open from January 1 through March 31 annually. Complete the fillable VA-SLRP Applicant Application online using the OneFlow platform.
For More Information
Phone: (804) 864-7435
Email: [email protected]
Washington
Washington Health Corps (WHC) Program – The WHC support licensed health professionals providing care at approved sites in critical shortage areas. Funds for the program include federal monies matched with state dollars.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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U.S. federal government and commercial loans for actual costs paid for tuition, and reasonable educational and living expenses |
How to Apply: The Washington Health Corps Provider Application is available online.
For More Information
Phone: (888) 535-0747, Option 5
Email: [email protected]
Wast Virginia
West Virginia State Loan Repayment Program (WV SLRP) – The West Virginia SLRP helps medical professionals with the high cost of completing their education in exchange for providing healthcare services in HPSAs. The West Virginia State Office of Rural Health administers the SLRP to ensure an adequate supply of trained health professionals to underserved populations who might otherwise receive insufficient or no medical care. Funding for the WV SLRP is from September 1 through June 30 annually.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Advanced Practice Professionals:
BSN-educated RN:
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Qualified government and commercial educational loans obtained for medical school tuition, reasonable educational expenses required by the medical school or training program and/or reasonable living expenses |
How to Apply: Complete the West Virginia SLRP Application. The preferred method of submission of applications and accompanying documentation is via email to [email protected]. Applicants may also mail their application packets to State Loan Repayment Program, State Office of Rural Health, WVDHHR/Bureau for Public Health, Office of Community Health Systems and Health Promotion, 350 Capitol Street, Room 515, Charleston, WV 25301. Applications are only accepted from March 1 through April 30 annually.
For More Information
Phone: (304) 352-6018 or (304) 558-4382
Wisconsin
Health Professions Loan Assistance Program (HPLAP) – The Wisconsin Office of Rural Health administers HPLAP to help medical professionals with student loan debt in exchange for working in HPSAs in an outpatient setting. Healthcare providers are limited to two Wisconsin Loan Assistance Program awards during their careers.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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Up to $25,000, paid out equally over 3 years | Health education assistance, Plus, national direct student, Stafford, health professions student, supplemental for students, state educational financial aid office guaranteed student, university-sponsored student, trust fund, scholastic, foundation and any other loans determined to be exclusively for educational purposes, obtained by the applicant from a public or private lending institution for education related to obtaining a medical, PA, NP or CNM degree |
How to Apply: Application cycles begin in May annually. Applicants must complete a Loan Assistance Application online and upload the required documentation, including the current balance of each eligible loan, proof of education/training and a personal essay.
For More Information
Contact Kevin Jacobson
Phone: (608) 261-1888 or (800) 385-0005
Email: [email protected]
Wyoming
Wyoming State Loan Repayment Program (WY-SLRP) – The WY-SLRP helps increase the recruitment of primary care and mental health providers in federally designated HPSAs throughout Wyoming. The program receives support from the HRSA, with 0% financed using non-governmental sources.
| Eligibility | Terms | Amount | Eligible Loans |
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How to Apply: Complete a Wyoming SLRP Application online on the state’s Award Monitoring System by creating an account, then follow the instructions.
For More Information
Contact Keri Wagner, Healthcare Workforce and Primary Care Office Manager
Phone: (307) 777-6512
E-mail: [email protected]
Note: This information contained in this post was accurate as of March 6, 2023, and was sourced directly from State or National Loan Forgiveness Program websites.
If you have any further details you’d like to share, please add a comment below. Learn more about national programs in our overview of nurse student loan forgiveness and get ready to tackle your post-graduation financial obligations with our tips for managing student loan debt.
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