Midwestern Expands Student Financial Support as Graduate Borrowing Rules Change
MWU Loan program helps students navigate new federal lending limits with fixed rates and expanded eligibility
Beginning July 1, 2026, new federal borrowing limits will reshape how many graduate and professional students finance their healthcare education. As students navigate those changes, Midwestern University offers a resource that sets it apart from many institutions: the MWU Loan, an institutional financing program designed specifically for Midwestern students.
"One of the biggest concerns we're seeing is that students are wondering whether they can even afford to attend a healthcare professional program anymore," said Michael Coca, MBA, CFEI®, Financial Education Specialist, Student Financial Services. "We want students to know that funding is available from Midwestern University, and we are committed to helping them achieve their professional goals."
Combined with financial education resources through Sensible Strategies, the University's financial wellness program, the MWU Loan reflects Midwestern University's focus on helping qualified students pursue healthcare careers without financial uncertainty standing in the way.
Keeping Healthcare Careers Within Reach
The MWU Loan was created specifically for Midwestern University students to provide additional funding when federal aid and other financing options do not fully cover the cost of attendance. Recent updates have made the program even more accessible, allowing students to qualify independently with a credit score as low as 660 and reducing the need for a cosigner.
"The barrier to entry is very low," Mr. Coca said. "A student with a 660 credit score may qualify for the MWU Loan on their own. That's important because many graduate students haven't had years to build extensive credit histories."
Unlike many private lending options, the MWU Loan offers a fixed 7% interest rate, no origination fees, and eligibility standards designed specifically for graduate healthcare students. Program-specific borrowing limits are designed to help students cover remaining educational expenses while encouraging responsible borrowing.
Understanding the Return on Investment
While financing is an important consideration, Midwestern University also emphasizes financial literacy and long-term planning through Sensible Strategies, the University's financial wellness program.
Students have access to one-on-one financial counseling, budgeting resources, loan repayment guidance, and online tools designed to help them make informed decisions throughout their academic journey.
"Students often see the cost of a healthcare education and worry they'll be paying student loans for the rest of their lives," Mr. Coca said. "What they may not fully realize is the return on that investment. Midwestern graduates enter professions with strong earning potential, and many can repay their educational debt much sooner than they initially expect."
Mr. Coca noted that educational debt is often viewed differently than other forms of borrowing because it is tied directly to a professional degree and future earning capacity.
A Track Record of Success
Midwestern University's approach has a strong track record. According to Mr. Coca, the University's student loan default rates remain exceptionally low.
He attributes that success to a combination of financial education, student support resources, and the strong career outcomes achieved by Midwestern graduates.
"Our graduates are becoming physicians, dentists, pharmacists, optometrists, physical therapists, physician assistants, and other healthcare professionals," Mr. Coca said. "These are careers that are in demand and provide opportunities for long-term financial stability. Combined with thoughtful borrowing and financial planning, that helps position Midwestern graduates to successfully manage and repay their educational debt."
Financing Built for Graduate Healthcare Education
As the higher education financing landscape continues to evolve, Midwestern University remains focused on helping students achieve their educational and professional goals.
With fixed interest rates, no origination fees, eligibility standards designed for graduate students, and borrowing limits that can help cover educational expenses beyond available federal aid, the MWU Loan provides a financing option tailored to the unique needs of future healthcare professionals.
"Many students are asking whether they'll be able to afford their dream of becoming a healthcare provider," Mr. Coca said. "The MWU Loan is one way Midwestern University can help answer that question. We're able to offer students a predictable source of funding with a low barrier to entry, so they can focus on preparing for their future careers rather than worrying about whether their education is financially possible."
