New Jersey launches latest round of student loan relief program for behavioral healthcare providers
TRENTON, N.J. — The Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) has opened the latest round of applications for a state program offering up to $180,000 in student loan redemption and incentive grants for eligible behavioral healthcare professionals.
“Over seven and a half years, my Administration has taken comprehensive steps to increase access to mental health supports for the children and families who call New Jersey home,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “The Behavioral Healthcare Provider Loan Redemption Program is among the many initiatives we introduced to support and encourage mental health providers to offer their services in underserved areas. With this latest round of funding, the program is building on its success by incentivizing professionals to provide much-needed care in communities throughout the state.”
The program provides student loan repayment assistance to full-time behavioral health professionals working at approved nonprofit, educational, or government-operated sites in New Jersey. For every two years of service, participants can receive up to $50,000 toward eligible student loans, for a maximum of $150,000 over six years. Professionals who primarily work with children and adolescents can also receive a supplemental grant of up to $5,000 annually, raising the maximum possible award to $180,000.
“Thanks to the support of Governor Murphy and the New Jersey Legislature, HESAA is now offering student loan redemption to behavioral healthcare professionals for the fourth year in a row,” said HESAA Executive Director Margo Chaly, Esq. “By offering student loan relief to dedicated professionals supporting residents in the Garden State, we are enhancing the availability of mental health services in high-demand areas. The HESAA team is honored to be a part of broader efforts throughout the state to expand access to behavioral and mental healthcare.”
“The Behavioral Healthcare Provider Loan Redemption Program is one of the many ways in which HESAA is working to strengthen a key sector of the workforce and improve the lives of New Jersey residents,” said Chairwoman of the HESAA Board Christy Van Horn. “I applaud State leadership and the entire HESAA team for the continued success of this program, which supports behavioral healthcare practitioners and the many clients they serve.”
A total of $3.825 million from the Fiscal Year 2026 budget is available for this round of funding. Since its launch in January 2023, 165 behavioral healthcare professionals have been accepted into the program. Applicants who were not selected in earlier rounds must reapply to be considered.
Eligible providers must live in New Jersey, maintain relevant behavioral health licenses, and work full-time at approved sites for at least two years. The selection process is based on demand for specific professions, geographic shortages, salary levels, and whether applicants serve children or adolescents, according to the state.
Applications and eligibility details are available at www.hesaa.org/Pages/BHLRP.aspx.
