Nursing Workforce Faces Potential Strain as Loan Policy Deters Graduate Education
WASHINGTON D.C. – A new poll from Nurse.org reveals that nearly 60% of nurses report being less likely to pursue advanced education due to recent changes in federal student loan policy enacted by teh Department of Education (DoED). The findings, released today, signal a potential worsening of the existing nursing shortage adn raise concerns about the future availability of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), nurse practitioners (NPs), certified nurse midwives (CNMs), nurse educators, and PhD-prepared nurse scientists.
The policy shift, impacting loan forgiveness programs, has ignited frustration and distrust within the nursing community.The Nurse.org poll, conducted among 1,552 nurses between November 27 and December 1, 2025, highlights anxieties surrounding program costs, access to education for underprivileged individuals, and the perceived devaluation of advanced nursing degrees. These concerns come at a critical juncture,as the healthcare system already grapples with a meaningful workforce crisis and limited numbers of nursing instructors.
“Less availability of student loans for underprivileged persons… fewer graduate-level nurses being trained each year… and compounding the existing workforce crisis,” one nurse respondent shared with nurse.org.others expressed dismay over what they perceive as misinformation surrounding the policy. “Media lying about what the bill does” and “The negative political myths being presented. I’m tired of the one-sided lies,” another nurse stated.
The poll data underscores a broader fear that the policy will exacerbate existing inequalities within the profession. Nurses voiced concerns about debt burdens and the potential for reduced diversity in advanced nursing roles. “Programs will not reduce their costs. Shortages will just increase,” one respondent predicted.
While the vast majority expressed concern, one outlier sentiment emerged: “Nothing at all. Graduate nurses are parasites on society.”
Nurse.org will continue to monitor federal actions and community responses to this policy change, providing ongoing coverage of its potential impact on the future of nursing. Nurses are encouraged to share their perspectives and engage in discussion on the Nurse.org forum.
Summary results from poll of 1,552 nurses conducted on Nurse.org from November 27 to December 1, 2025.
