For many nursing students, the cost of tuition and living expenses can create a heavy financial burden while balancing coursework and clinical training. The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa School of Nursing & Dental Hygiene has partnered with Social Finance to offer zero-interest student loans through the Hawaiʻi Renewable Learning Fund, a program designed to help students cover educational costs without the burden of high-interest debt.
Eligible UH Mānoa undergraduate nursing students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program who are within two years of graduation can apply for loans to cover the cost of attendance after grants and scholarships. Applicants must be permanent Hawaiʻi residents and qualify as low-income. Loan amounts range from $2,000 to $15,000 per academic year.
The loan program continues to support students in the College of Engineering, where it was launched to help students with demonstrated financial need complete their degrees. The UH Mānoa School of Nursing & Dental Hygiene is the latest UH program to join the initiative, expanding access to more students across the university.
“We’re excited to join this new program, building on its success with other UH students,” said Clementina Ceria-Ulep, dean of the UH Mānoa School of Nursing & Dental Hygiene. “This partnership reflects our commitment to supporting nursing students as they complete their degrees and prepare for careers in the local healthcare workforce.”
The school is holding an informational session with Social Finance on Monday, February 9, 2026 from 11:30 – 12:30 p.m.
How the program works
The Hawaiʻi Renewable Learning Fund provides eligible students with loans that carry zero interest and no origination fees, helping cover remaining costs of tuition, living expenses and other educational needs not met by grants and scholarships.
After graduation, students repay their loans through fixed monthly payments over up to five years, with options to defer monthly payments when income falls below a minimum threshold. Repayments are recycled into the fund to support future students, creating a sustainable resource.
By offering financial flexibility while in school, the program allows students to focus on their studies and clinical training, helping them complete their degrees with less stress and prepare for careers in Hawaiʻi’s healthcare community.
UH Mānoa Nursing prepares bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral nurses to serve diverse populations across Hawaiʻi and the Asia-Pacific region. Its online master’s program is nationally ranked. Graduates consistently achieve high licensure pass rates, reflecting the program’s academic standards and workforce preparation.
For more information about the zero-interest loan, visit the Hawaiʻi Renewable Learning Fund page. UH Mānoa Nursing students who have questions should contact their Office of Student Services advisor.
