Federal Loan Changes for Graduate Students

Starting July 1, 2026, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act makes significant changes to federal student loans for graduate students. If you are planning to start a graduate program at Capital, these changes affect how much you can borrow and what loan types will be available to you. Here is what you need to know.

Key Changes for Graduate Students

Grad PLUS loans available to new borrowers after July 1, 2026

$20,500

Annual unsubsidized loan limit for grad programs

$100,000

New aggregate borrowing cap for graduate programs

How Do These Changes Affect You?

Starting a graduate program after July 1, 2026

Graduate PLUS Loans will not be available to you. Your federal borrowing will be limited to $20,500 per year in unsubsidized loans, with a lifetime aggregate cap of $100,000. If your program costs exceed these limits, you will need to plan for the gap through private loans, scholarships, or personal savings. Capital's graduate admission recruiters can help you explore your options.

Already enrolled before July 1, 2026

You may qualify for legacy provisions that allow you to continue borrowing under current rules, including Graduate PLUS Loans, while you complete your current program. To qualify, you must remain enrolled in the same program and must have borrowed federal loans for that program before July 1, 2026. Changing programs or taking a leave of absence may affect your eligibility — contact our financial aid office before making any changes.

Enrolled less than full time

Beginning July 1, 2026, federal loans will be prorated based on your credit hours if you are enrolled less than full time. At Capital, full-time enrollment for graduate students is 6 credit hours per semester. You must be enrolled at least half time to qualify for any federal loans.

How to Prepare Right Now

Log into studentaid.gov to review your current loan history and balances. Check the legacy provisions to understand your status. If you anticipate a funding gap, start researching private loan and scholarship options now. And before changing programs or taking a leave, talk to us first.

Visit StudentAid.gov

Talk to a Graduate Admission Recruiter

These changes do not have to derail your graduate plans. Capital's Graduate Admission Recruiters are here to help you understand your options and plan ahead with confidence. Fill out the form below and we will be in touch.

Looking for complete details on loan changes for all students? View the full Federal Student Aid Loan Updates page.