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Nurse Education Scholarship Loan Program (NESLP) Deferment FAQ

A deferment is a period in which loan forgiveness or cash repayment of a loan is postponed or delayed. Although payments are not due during a deferment period, interest at the rate of ten percent (10%) will continue to accrue on the outstanding principal balance of your loan. Each approved period of deferment will extend the NESLP repayment period by the length of the deferment. A borrower may apply for deferment by completing and returning a Postponement/Deferment Form to NCSEAA for approval.

What circumstances qualify for deferment under the NESLP loan program?

Authorized deferments include the following:

  • personal illness for a period not to exceed twelve (12) months per each occurrence;
  • family medical leave, which includes maternity or paternity leave upon the birth or adoption of a child or leave to provide necessary care for an immediate family member who is sick or disabled for a period not to exceed twelve (12) months per occurrence;
  • unemployment during any period of time not to exceed twelve (12) months per each occurrence while a borrower is conscientiously seeking and unable to obtain qualified employment; and
  • full-time enrollment at an accredited postsecondary institution located within the United States for a period not to exceed twelve (12) months.

How do I apply for a deferment?

You must complete a Postponement/Deferment Form and return it to NCSEAA for approval. You are responsible for submitting your deferment request, along with the required documentation, before your account becomes past due. If your account is in a cash repayment status, you should continue to remit cash payments until your deferment request is approved.

Does interest accrue during an approved deferment period?

Yes. Interest, at the annual rate of ten percent (10%) will continue to accrue during approved periods of deferment.

Can I apply for a student deferment if I am enrolled as less than a full-time student?

No. You must be enrolled as a full-time student in order to qualify for a student deferment.

What if my status changes before my approved deferment expires?

If your status changes prior to the expiration of an approved deferment, you must notify NCSEAA of the status change.

Whom should I contact if I have additional questions concerning deferment of my NESLP?

Additional information is available in the NESLP/HSM Rules and Regulations or you may contact Repayment Services staff between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.