The One Big Beautiful Bill Act
Federal Financial Aid Overview & Key Changes
LSU Health Shreveport – Office of Student Financial Aid
Purpose
This information provides an overview of key changes to federal student loan programs under The One Big Beautiful Bill Act and explains how these changes may impact students beginning with the 2026–2027 academic year.
Changes to PLUS Loans
- Graduate PLUS Loan program eliminated beginning July 1, 2026.
- Parent PLUS Loans subject to new annual and aggregate limits.
- Eligibility tied to enrollment periods and Direct Loan disbursements made on or before June 30, 2026.
- Institutions will ensure borrowing does not exceed Cost of Attendance (COA).
What This Means for You
Medical and professional students should begin planning early for alternative funding options, including budgeting strategies and potential private education loans.
Legacy Borrower Status
Students enrolled as of June 30, 2026, who received a Federal Direct Loan disbursement before July 1, 2026, may qualify as legacy borrowers and continue receiving PLUS loans under current limits for up to three academic years.
Federal Borrowing Limits
Annual Limits:
- Parent PLUS: $20,000 per student
- Graduate Students: $20,500
- Professional Students: $50,000
Lifetime Federal Student Loan Limit: $257,500
Student Loan Repayment Options
Borrowers will generally have access to Tiered Standard Repayment and the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP). RAP is income-based and eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
Contact Information
Office of Student Financial Aid
LSU Health Shreveport
Center for Medical Education Building, 3rd Floor, Suite 3114
Email: shvfinaid@lsuhs.edu | Phone: (318) 675-5561