The State of Iowa is happy to announce the eligibility criteria for inaugural awards under the Health Care Professional Incentive Program (HCPIP). The application will become available on Feb. 1 and close on March 31.

The HCPIP provides awards in the form of an income bonus or a payment against a recipient’s federal student loan(s) for those who agree to work in an eligible health occupation and practice in an eligible location.

For 2025-2026 awards, the eligible occupations include:

·         Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners (includes all categories)

·         Licensed Professional Counselor (Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, Mental Health Counselor)

·         Nurse Educator

·         Occupational Therapist

·         Physical Therapist

·         Physician Assistant (includes all categories)

·         Physicians (MD and DO)

·         Registered Nurse

·         Social Worker (licensed social workers qualified to provide mental health counseling).

Information about the eligible practice areas (counties), award amounts, and the application process is available at educate.iowa.gov/hcpip.

Questions about HCPIP can be directed to grants@iowacollegeaid.gov.

— Kristi Fuller, Financial Aid Office