Nova Scotia graduates no longer need to reapply to keep their provincial student loans interest-free.
The Province has streamlined its zero per cent interest program, removing the annual application requirement for all new graduates and ensuring continuous support for eligible borrowers during their repayment period.
"Graduates should be able to focus on the new, exciting stage they are starting - not worrying about whether they have filled out the paperwork to keep loan repayment affordable," said Brendan Maguire, Minister of Advanced Education. "By removing the need to reapply each year, we're making the zero per cent interest program simpler and more reliable for the Nova Scotians who depend on it."
The program supports graduates who remain in Nova Scotia after completing their studies. Before this change, graduates had to reapply each year to confirm they were still eligible.
The change reduces paperwork and helps prevent interruptions in support, making it easier for borrowers to stay focused on paying down their loans. People currently repaying provincial loans were recently notified of the change by email.
This improvement also supports the Province's broader efforts to reduce red tape and improve service delivery, making it easier for Nova Scotians to access programs and supports.
The Province eliminated interest on Nova Scotia student loans in 2014, saving graduates more than $2 million annually.
Quotes:
"Today's announcement is a positive step towards ensuring that graduates feel supported as they begin repaying their student loans. Removing this annual reapplication requirement reduces unnecessary administrative burden and lets graduates focus on what matters - paying down their debt and building their lives in Nova Scotia. Students Nova Scotia looks forward to continuing to work with the Department of Advanced Education to build on this progress and continue to make post-secondary education more accessible and affordable for students."
Brendan Roberts, Executive Director, Students Nova Scotia
Quick Facts:
- more than 7,000 Nova Scotia student loan borrowers accessed the zero per cent interest program in 2024-25
Additional Resources:
- Information on the zero per cent interest program through Nova Scotia Student Assistance: https://novascotia.ca/studentassistance/Financing/Zero_Interest.asp
- Student loan borrowers can ask questions through the MyPATH portal: https://lae.novascotia.ca/sans/StudentPortal/Login.aspx?ReturnUrl=/sans/studentportal
- News release - Province Reduces Red Tape, Supports Development During Legislative Session: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2025/10/03/province-reduces-red-tape-supports-development-during-legislative-session
