The U.S. Department of education reclassified nursing as a non-professional degree on December 1, 2023, a decision that will substantially limit federal loan eligibility for students pursuing nursing education. The change, revealed in updated guidance for federal student aid programs, removes nursing from a category that previously qualified students for more favorable loan terms and higher borrowing limits.
This reclassification impacts prospective and current nursing students nationwide, potentially increasing their financial burden and hindering access to the profession amidst a critical healthcare staffing shortage. Students enrolled in programs now deemed non-professional may face reduced loan amounts, impacting their ability to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses. The Department of Education‘s move stems from a review of degree classifications and a determination that, while vital, nursing programs do not consistently meet the criteria for professional degree status-typically requiring advanced theoretical coursework and research components.
Andi Ruiz,a politics reporter at The State Press,is covering the developing story.
The updated guidance affects Direct loans, Federal family Education Loans (FFEL), and Perkins Loans. Previously, students in professional degree programs coudl borrow up to $20,500 annually, with aggregate limits reaching $138,500. Those limits are now tied to undergraduate loan amounts, capped at $5,500 for the first year, increasing to $6,500 for the second year, $7,500 for the third year, and $8,500 for subsequent years, with a total aggregate limit of $30,000.
The Department of Education stated the change aims to align loan eligibility with degree classifications and ensure responsible stewardship of federal student aid funds.However, nursing organizations and student advocates have expressed concern, arguing the decision fails to recognise the rigorous academic demands and essential role of nurses in the healthcare system.
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