The National Health Service Corps Rural Community program offers registered nurses up to $100,000 in tax-free student loan repayment for three years of full-time service at an approved rural facility treating substance use disorder. Half-time participants may receive up to $50,000, with an additional $5,000 available for professional Spanish proficiency. Applications are expected to open in late January 2027 and close in March. Nurses can prepare by confirming their facility is NHSC-approved, gathering loan documentation and monitoring the NHSC program webpage for updates. (Gena Cooper)
