Loans are an important component of assisting students in meeting their educational expenses. Student Financial Services encourages individuals utilizing loans to fully understand the terms of each loan and borrow only what is needed. We also advise individuals to research loan repayment and employment options which can assist in meeting loan repayment obligations. Below are the different types of loans available to students matriculating at the School of Nursing. Current and prospective students have access to our office year-round by email, phone, or in person. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns.
Federal Student Loans
Federal loans are provided by the U.S. Department of Education. To be eligible for federal loans, students must complete the FAFSA. The types of federal student loans used by students at the School of Nursing are listed below:
The Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan is used to help cover a student’s expenses. Students do not have to demonstrate financial need. The maximum amount that can be borrowed per year is $20,500. Interest on the loan accrues while a student is enrolled in school and is added to the principal of the loan. Students apply for the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan by completing the FAFSA. The most up to date interest rates and origination fee can be found at https://studentaid.gov/.
Programs at the School of Nursing are graduate-level only. Therefore, students are not eligible for Federal Direct Subsidized loans.
The Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan is used to help cover a student’s expenses. To qualify for this loan students must complete the FAFSA, complete an application, and pass a credit check. Students do not have to demonstrate financial need. A student may apply for any amount up to the cost of attendance, less any other financial aid. Interest on the loan accrues while a student is enrolled in school and is added to the principal of the loan. The most up to date interest rates and origination fee can be found at https://studentaid.gov.
If you borrowed a federal student loan at JHU for a term that began before July 1, 2026, you remain eligible to borrow under the previous federal loan limits — including Graduate PLUS loans — for the remainder of your current program or for up to three years, whichever is shorter. To qualify, you only need to have received any Direct Loan funding (either a Direct Unsubsidized Loan or a Graduate PLUS Loan) before July 1, 2026 for your current program. You do not need to have previously borrowed a Graduate PLUS Loan specifically. If you are unsure whether this applies to you, the financial aid office can help review your borrowing history and eligibility.
The Federal Perkins Loan has been discontinued by Congress. If you are working as a nurse and providing care directly to patients, you are eligible to have your Federal Perkins Loan forgiven. Please refer to the application located here.
Private Student Loans
We’re here to help you navigate the changing landscape. Starting with the 2026–2027 academic year, Graduate PLUS Loans are no longer available to new borrowers. That means private loans may play a bigger role for many students—and we want to make sure you have the tools to make informed choices.
This list shows lenders who have historically worked with Johns Hopkins students. It’s a starting point for your research—not a recommendation. You’re welcome to use any lender you choose.
A few tips as you explore:
- Start with federal loans first ($20,500 maximum Unsubsidized Federal Direct Student Loan)
- Compare multiple lenders—rates and terms vary
- Reach out to us with questions anytime through SEAM’s online form.
For more information about changes to Federal Student Aid in 2026-2027, visit our One Big Beautiful Bill Act FAQ page.
Nurse Faculty Loan Program
The purpose of the NFLP is to assist registered nurses with completing their graduate education to become qualified nurse faculty… Recipients receive a loan of up to $35,500 per year for their graduate education. The program offers partial loan forgiveness for borrowers who graduate and serve as full-time nursing faculty for the prescribed period of time. Loan recipients may cancel 85% of the total loan amount over four years in return for serving as full-time faculty at any accredited school of nursing. For more information click here.
Johns Hopkins Hospital Employee School of Nursing Tuition Loan
Johns Hopkins Health System Corporation/Johns Hopkins Hospital (JHHSC/JHH) employees who are enrolled at the School of Nursing can finance their tuition through this special loan program with the Johns Hopkins Federal Credit Union (JHFCU). For more information about this program, contact the JHHSC/JHH Benefits Office at 410-614-6504.
Loan Forgiveness & Repayment Assistance
Below is a list of loan forgiveness and repayment assistance options gathered by Student Financial Services. The options encompass Bachelors, Masters, and/or Doctoral degrees. Additional eligibility criteria may be required prior to applying for a program. Please contact the administering agency if you have any questions regarding your eligibility, the application process, or deadlines.