N.S. removes annual reapply requirements for interest-free student loans

Nova Scotia's provincial flag flies on a flag pole in Ottawa on July 3, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld

Graduates in Nova Scotia no longer need to reapply to keep their student loans interest-free following changes made by the province Tuesday.

In an announcement, the province says they’ve updated the zero per cent interest program, removing the requirement for all new graduates to reapply annually. Graduates previously had to reapply each year to confirm they were still eligible.

“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 Advanced Education Minister, Brendan Maguire, in the announcement.

“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 province says the change will reduce paperwork and will make it easier for graduates to pay down their loans.

People who are currently repaying provincial loans were notified of the change by email.

The zero per cent interest program removes interest on student loans for graduates who remain in Nova Scotia after graduating. In 2024 to 2025, the province says more than 7,000 student loan borrowers used the program.

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