Canada Student Loan forgiveness program expansion

Student loan forgiveness for pharmacists one step closer to reality

On February 15, proposed regulations for the expansion of the Canada Student Loan Forgiveness Program were published in the Canada Gazette. CPhA was thrilled to see pharmacists included in the higher bracket of loan forgiveness, comparable to family physicians and dentists (up to $60,000 in loan forgiveness over a five-year period). This means that pharmacists who meet the criteria and choose to work in under-served rural or remote communities will soon be eligible for the program. We expect that it will come into effect this fall.

This achievement is a direct result of the dedicated advocacy efforts by CPhA and our collaboration with partners such as the Canadian Association of Pharmacy Students and Interns (CAPSI). Our joint campaign with CAPSI led to hundreds of letters being sent to elected officials, emphasizing the need for pharmacists' inclusion in this program, and our more recent submissions highlighted important data points that helped secure the higher level of loan forgiveness. The draft regulations are open for a 30-day consultation and CPhA will be making a submission in support. Those interested in submitting feedback as part of the consultation can do so until March 17. See the official publication in the Canada Gazette for more information and to submit your comments.