FAFSA Basics
File FAFSA every year at studentaid.gov. Opens October 1 for the following academic year. Filing early maximizes your aid package.
- ●Use your (or parent's) prior-year tax return
- ●List all schools you're applying to
- ●Independent status if 24+ or married
- ●Pell Grants don't need to be repaid
- ●Subsidized loans: interest doesn't accrue while in school
Nursing-Specific Aid
Nursing has unique funding sources beyond standard financial aid.
- ●School-based nursing scholarships (ask your financial aid office)
- ●State nursing workforce scholarships (check your BON website)
- ●HRSA Scholarships for Disadvantaged Students
- ●Indian Health Service Scholarship
- ●Professional nursing organization scholarships (ANA, NLN, NSNA)
- ●Hospital-sponsored scholarships with employment commitments
Loan Forgiveness & Repayment Programs
These programs can eliminate significant loan debt in exchange for service commitments.
NHSC Loan Repayment Program
Up to $50K (2-year commitment)Work in a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA). Available for NPs and RNs in some states.
Nurse Corps Loan Repayment
Up to 85% of loans (2–3 years)HRSA program for nurses working in critical shortage facilities. Highly competitive.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
Full forgiveness after 10 yearsWork full-time for a qualifying employer (most hospitals, non-profits). Make 120 qualifying payments.
State-Based Programs
Varies by state ($3K–$30K+)Many states offer forgiveness for nurses working in underserved areas. Check your state health department.
Hospital Tuition Reimbursement
Varies ($2K–$10K/yr)Many hospitals offer reimbursement for employees pursuing nursing degrees. Often requires a service commitment.