Maryland offers several programs that help eligible professionals repay qualifying education loans in exchange for working in public service, healthcare shortage areas, or underserved communities.
These programs are administered by the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) and the Maryland Department of Health (MDH). Eligibility requirements, award amounts, service commitments, and application periods may change based on available funding.
Healthcare Loan Repayment Programs
Maryland Loan Repayment Programs for Physicians and Physician Assistants
The Maryland Loan Repayment Programs provide educational loan repayment assistance to eligible physicians, physician assistants, and certain medical residents who practice at approved sites or in designated healthcare professional shortage areas.
Participants generally agree to complete a required service obligation in an eligible Maryland community or healthcare facility. Award amounts depend on the applicant’s eligibility, employment status, program funding, and service commitment.
Maryland Dent-Care Loan Assistance Repayment Program
The Maryland Dent-Care Loan Assistance Repayment Program provides loan repayment assistance to eligible dentists and dental hygienists who serve Maryland Medical Assistance Program recipients.
Eligible full-time dentists may receive up to $50,000 per year for up to 3 years. Eligible full-time dental hygienists may receive up to $10,000 per year for as many as two years. Reduced awards may be available to qualifying part-time providers.
Public Service and Legal Loan Repayment Programs
Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program
The Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program provides educational loan repayment assistance to eligible Maryland residents employed full-time in qualifying public-service positions.
Eligible employment may include state or local government agencies and nonprofit organizations that provide services to low-income, underserved, or underrepresented Maryland residents. Qualifying professions and award amounts vary by application cycle.
John R. Justice Grant Student Loan Repayment Program
The John R. Justice Grant Student Loan Repayment Program provides loan repayment assistance to eligible Maryland state and federal public defenders and prosecutors.
Recipients must agree to remain employed as qualifying public defenders or prosecutors for at least 3 years. Funding and application availability are determined by the program’s current federal allocation.
Before You Apply
Applicants should review the official program website carefully to confirm:
- Eligible professions and employers
- Maryland residency requirements
- Qualifying education loans
- Required service commitments
- Current award amounts
- Application dates and deadlines
- Required employment and loan documentation
Receiving assistance is not guaranteed. Awards are subject to program eligibility requirements and the availability of state or federal funding. You may find more information on all loan assistance repayment programs here.
UMBC does not determine eligibility for these programs. Questions about eligibility, applications, or award payments should be directed to the agency administering the applicable program.