Frequently Asked Questions

Some programs, like NHSC scholarships, require commitment during school; others, like loan repayment, start once you’re employed at an eligible site.

Yes, scholarships are available for students, and AHEC can help you identify those timelines.

 Yes, for some programs, though award amounts are prorated. WI state programs are only for full-time work.

If relocating, you would need to find another location with a HPSA score similar to the one you are leaving.

Yes , as soon as you begin employment at an eligible site.

Programs like the Wisconsin Health Professions Loan Assistance Program (HPLAP) are competitive across all eligible professions. Selection is based on multiple factors, including your application materials, practice site, and alignment with workforce needs.

Two of the most important components are:

• Your personal essay
• Your employer’s letter of support

Together, these can account for a significant portion of your application score. Strong applications clearly demonstrate your commitment to serving underserved communities and working in community-based settings

Most programs require you to work at an approved community-based, outpatient site, such as:

• Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)
• Community health centers
• Public health departments
• Clinics in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs)

Hospital-based settings like emergency departments or inpatient care typically do not qualify as primary care sites.

A HPSA is a designation used by HRSA to identify areas with limited access to health care providers. Many loan repayment programs require you to work in a HPSA to qualify.

Yes, most do, but always confirm via the NHSC site’s “Health Workforce Connector” tool.