What is the Enhancing Excellence in Teaching Program?
The Enhancing Excellence in Teaching Program (EETP) provides a limited number of forgivable loans to Nebraska teachers enrolled in an eligible graduate program at a Nebraska institution. Eligible students may apply on an annual basis for funds of $175 per credit hour, up to a maximum of $3,000. Students can apply for EETP loans annually for up to five (5) consecutive years. Eligible graduate coursework includes classes that begin during the period of July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026.
Who is eligible?
To be considered for an EETP loan, you must:
- Be employed as a certified teacher in an approved or accredited public or private PK-12 school in Nebraska.
- Be a resident Nebraska student.
- Be enrolled in an approved graduate program at an eligible Nebraska institution.
What are the benefits?
EETP loans are forgivable, which means that you will not have to repay them if you meet certain requirements. To be eligible for loan forgiveness, you must:
- Complete your graduate program and maintain full-time employment as a Nebraska teacher for two years.
- Teach in a high-need area, as defined by the Nebraska Department of Education.
How do I apply?
The EETP application for the 2025-2026 academic year will open on April 15, 2025. Here is a condensed version of the EETP application process:
- Complete the application in its entirety and submit it with the required supporting documentation.
- The application will be available on the Enhancing Excellence in Teaching Program application page on the Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education's (CCPE) website beginning April 15, 2024, at 9:001 a.m.
- Submit the completed application and all supporting documentation to the designated contact person at the institution in which you are enrolled by May 17, 2024.
- If selected, complete, sign, and return the EETP Loan Contract, which will be emailed to you.
For further application details, please read the official EETP Application Instructions.
Why should I apply for EETP?
EETP is a great opportunity for Nebraska teachers to earn a graduate degree while also receiving financial assistance. The program can help you improve your teaching skills and knowledge, and it can also help you advance in your career. If you are a Nebraska teacher who is considering pursuing a graduate degree, I encourage you to apply for EETP.
For more information, please visit the EETP website:
NE EETP Official Website