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Federal Loans Cut for Nursing Programs: Outrage Ensues

11/21/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Department of Education will exclude nursing from its definition of 'professional degree' programs, barring federal student loans for nursing education, effective July 1, 2026.
The policy is tied to U.S. President Donald Trump’s 'One Big Beautiful Bill' and has drawn outrage from nursing professionals.
Over 260,000 students are enrolled in nursing programs, and the changes could reduce graduates and worsen rural care.

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Story summary

The U.S. Department of Education will exclude nursing from its definition of 'professional degree' programs, barring federal student loans for nursing education, effective July 1, 2026.
The policy is tied to U.S. President Donald Trump’s 'One Big Beautiful Bill' and has drawn outrage from nursing professionals.
Over 260,000 students are enrolled in nursing programs, and the changes could reduce graduates and worsen rural care.