One Big Beautiful Bill Act

On July 4, 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act was signed into law, introducing revisions to several federal student aid programs.


Although federal guidance is still forthcoming, the following changes are scheduled to begin with the 2026-2027 FAFSA application year:

  1. Federal Direct Loan amounts will be reduced for students enrolled less than full-time. Students registered for fewer than 12 credits per semester may see a decrease in loan eligibility based on their actual enrollment level.
  2. For new Federal Parent PLUS Loan Borrowers, loans will be capped at: $20,000 per academic year, and $65,000 aggregate limit per dependent student.
  3. For eligible students, non-federal grants and scholarships that cover the complete cost of attendance (COA) may prevent students from receiving a Pell Grant, even if they are otherwise eligible for the program.
  4. Federal loan repayment options will be streamlined into two plans:
    • A new tiered Standard Repayment Plan, and
    • A new income-driven repayment option called the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP).

We understand that federal policy changes can raise important questions. The College's financial aid office continues to monitor guidance from the U.S. Department of Education and provide updates as they become available.

It is important to know that if you adjust your schedule in any way, or drop a course, your financial aid may be adjusted. Please come see us before dropping or adjusting classes. 

We understand that you have questions—and so do we. Please know that this webpage will continue to be updated as we receive the most accurate and up-to-date information available.

To learn more about the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, refer to the government's Student Aid website .


Frequently Asked Questions

How will my loan eligibility be affected if I am not full-time?

Federal Direct Loan amounts will now be prorated based on your enrollment status.

Full-time students (12+ credits): No change.
Less-than-full-time students (<12 credits): Loan amounts will be reduced based on the percentage of full-time enrollment.

Example: If you are enrolled half-time (6 credits), your Direct Loan eligibility may be roughly 50% of a full-time award.

I already receive federal student loans. Will there be any exceptions for current borrowers?

Please visit the Loan Limit Exceptions section on the Federal Student Aid OBBBA Page to see if you qualify.

What happens if I drop a class?

Your future loan disbursements could be adjusted. If you have questions regarding this, please call our office at 301-784-5213.

 

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