08/21/2026
Planning for College? Federal Student Loan Changes Are Coming.
Starting with the 2026–27 academic year, new federal student loan rules will change how students and families can finance higher education. Here are a few key changes to know:
• Graduate PLUS loans are being eliminated for new borrowers, with new limits on federal borrowing for graduate and professional students.
• Parent PLUS loans will be capped at $20,000 per year per student, with a $65,000 lifetime limit per student.
• Federal borrowing limits are becoming more restrictive, meaning some students and families may have a larger gap between the cost of college and the amount they can borrow federally.
For families planning for college, these changes make it even more important to look beyond the FAFSA and consider the bigger financial picture. Saving early, comparing net costs, understanding borrowing options, and balancing college savings with other financial goals can all play a role in creating a sustainable plan.
If you’re planning for a child’s education, now may be a good time to revisit your college funding strategy and understand how these changes could affect your family.