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August 5, 2003
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Erickson: Nursing Loan Forgiveness Application
Deadline August 31
Also, Upromise helps students pay off loans faster.
Harrisburg – State Sen. Ted Erickson (R-26) today encouraged nursing
students and others with student loans to look into two helpful
initiatives.
The Nursing Loan Forgiveness for Healthier Futures program helps
nursing students repay their student loans, and the Upromise program
helps all holders of approved student loans reduce their debt by making
everyday purchases of products and services.
"In this tight fiscal year, tuitions have increased and paying for
college is a real challenge," said Erickson. "Here are two of many
opportunities for Pennsylvania students to ease the burden."
Erickson said the nursing loan forgiveness program is taking
applications for nursing students who have, or will have, graduated from
nursing school during 2003. Under the program, up to 25 percent or
$12,500 of a nurse's qualified student loan debt can be waived over
three years.
Erickson said the program is designed to increase the number of
nurses practicing in Pennsylvania, which has a nursing shortage. The
deadline to apply is August 31.
Applications, eligibility requirements and additional information can
be found at
www.futuresinnursing.org . Applications can also be ordered be
calling 1-800-859-5442.
Erickson also encouraged students to look into Upromise, a service
that allows holders of approved student loans to purchase goods and
services at thousands of participating retailers and restaurants at a
discount, and apply the savings to their student loan, thereby reducing
their loan balance.
Borrowers can visit
www.upromise.com/aes to view the complete list of contributing
companies and establish a free Upromise account, or call 1-800-475-7032.
The Nursing Loan Forgiveness for Healthier Futures program is
administered by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency.
Upromise is offered by American Education Services, a not-for-profit
agency affiliated with PHEAA.
CONTACT: Chuck McDonald (610) 853-4100
