TOMS RIVER – Ocean County College nursing students will soon be able to receive interest-free loans and other assistance through the New Jersey Pay It Forward Program.
Beginning in fall 2026, eligible students may apply for loans carrying no interest or fees to help pay tuition and related educational expenses. Some participants could also receive monthly living allowances, emergency aid and mental health services that do not have to be repaid.
Dr. Tracy Walsh, dean of Nursing and Health Sciences at OCC, said the resources could ease financial pressures and allow nursing students to concentrate on completing their degrees.
The statewide initiative was established in 2022 by New Jersey, the NJ CEO Council and Social Finance, which manages the program. It supports education and workforce training connected to high-demand professions, including health care. Money repaid by participants returns to the fund to assist future students.
Gov. Mikie Sherrill said reducing the cost of nursing education will help New Jersey residents prepare for stable careers while expanding the pool of qualified workers available to health care employers.
An additional $1 million was included for the program in Sherrill’s fiscal year 2027 budget. Officials said the expansion at OCC could benefit hundreds of nursing students as New Jersey works to address a continuing shortage of nurses.
The state has provided $20 million to the program since its launch, while the NJ CEO Council has contributed approximately $5 million. Organizers expect it to ultimately assist 1,000 students.
Kirstin Hill, president and chief operating officer of Social Finance, said the organization has seen promising outcomes from its investments in New Jersey health care students. She said adding OCC will help more students remain in school, finish their training and enter the nursing workforce.
OCC President Pamela Monaco said the partnership advances the college’s efforts to make higher education more accessible and remove financial obstacles that can prevent students from completing their studies.
OCC’s nursing program combines coursework with clinical training. Graduates receive an Associate in Applied Science degree and may take the National Council Licensure Examination. Those who pass the NCLEX-RN qualify to become licensed registered nurses.
