Story perspectives

New Loan Cap May Worsen U.S. Nursing Shortage

11/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Department of Education will cap graduate nursing student loan borrowing at $20,500 annually.
The change is part of a funding package signed by U.S. President Donald Trump and will take effect July 1, 2026.
Jennifer Mensik Kennedy, president of the American Nurses Association, warns the cap could deter aspiring nurses and worsen a 6% nursing shortage.
Professional associations are advocating for adjustments to mitigate long-term impacts on healthcare access.

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Story summary

The U.S. Department of Education will cap graduate nursing student loan borrowing at $20,500 annually.
The change is part of a funding package signed by U.S. President Donald Trump and will take effect July 1, 2026.
Jennifer Mensik Kennedy, president of the American Nurses Association, warns the cap could deter aspiring nurses and worsen a 6% nursing shortage.
Professional associations are advocating for adjustments to mitigate long-term impacts on healthcare access.