Department of Education Finalizes Rule Changing Student Loan Limits

Recommend

In finalizing the definition of 'professional degree' without modification, the Department of Education risks unintentionally but significantly harming the aging services workforce by excluding entire professions that are essential to the care of older adults.

The Department of Education published its final rule implementing changes to federal student loan limits for graduate and professional degree programs on May 1, 2026. The rule finalizes, without modification, the Department's definition of "professional degree," despite significant concern raised during the public comment period.

LeadingAge is disappointed that the Department chose not to revise its approach. As we noted in our comment letter, the finalized definition could unintentionally but significantly harm the aging services workforce by excluding several fields that are integral to our sector, including advanced practice nurses, physician assistants, social workers, and rehabilitation therapists such as physical and occupational therapists. These professionals are essential to delivering high-quality care across provider settings. As a result of being excluded, students pursuing post-baccalaureate degrees in these fields will be subject to lower federal loan limits beginning on July 1, 2026. Litigation challenging the final rule is expected, and LeadingAge will monitor those developments closely.

At the same time, we support the Professional Student Degree Act, a bill with bipartisan support that would clarify the definition of "professional degree" in federal statute to ensure key aging services professions are not excluded.

As workforce shortages persist and demand for care continues to grow, LeadingAge will continue to advocate for federal policy that supports a strong and sustainable pipeline of highly skilled healthcare and social services professionals who serve older adults.