The U.S. Department of Education’s proposed implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act excludes nursing and advanced practice nursing programs from the “professional degree” category for federal student loan purposes.
What does this mean?
Graduate nursing students will face lower borrowing caps and lose access to Grad PLUS loans.
Advanced nursing education will become significantly less affordable, threatening the pipeline of nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, and nursing leaders.
This policy change comes at a time when our nation is facing critical nursing workforce shortages.
If finalized, this rule will have real consequences for patient care, workforce sustainability, and opportunity.
Why It Matters
Patient Care: Advanced practice nurses are essential for primary care, critical care, and leadership roles.
Workforce Stability: Limiting loan access will worsen shortages and increase reliance on costly staffing solutions.
Opportunity and Growth: Nursing has historically provided a pathway to economic mobility for first-generation and underrepresented students. Restricting loan access undermines growth and opportunity in the profession.
What You Can Do
Congressional leaders need to hear from you. Personalized messages from constituents are among the most influential forms of advocacy. Your voice matters.
Here’s how to help: Use the form below to send a message to your U.S. Senators and Representative.
Share your personal story—why you pursued nursing, your current student loan challenges, or how this policy could affect your future plans.