The 2026 loan changes, without the noise.
Start dates and borrowing history now matter more than ever.
New medical school borrowing
For professional students subject to the new limits, federal borrowing is capped at $50,000 annually and $200,000 in aggregate. A separate $257,500 lifetime limit also applies. Grad PLUS is no longer available to new borrowers under these rules.
Already enrolled?
Some continuing students have a limited legacy exception. Enrollment and borrowing in the same program before July 1, 2026 matter. The exception can last up to three academic years or the remaining program length, whichever is shorter. Ask your aid office to confirm your exact eligibility, especially before a leave or transfer.
Repayment is changing, too
RAP and Tiered Standard became available July 1, 2026. SAVE has ended. Transition deadlines depend on your situation and servicer notice; do not assume every borrower has until 2028.
Go to the source
Cornell Financial Aid · federal aid changes ↗Federal Student Aid · 2026 changes ↗MOHELA · PSLF information ↗Rules and account details can change. Official sources determine eligibility; this page does not.