The U.S. Department of Education recently released updates from its ongoing student loan rulemaking process. These proposed changes outline new borrowing limits and repayment rules for graduate and professional students, including individuals pursuing degrees in fields such as public health (MPH), social work, public administration, nursing, and other health related disciplines.
Under the draft regulations, most graduate programs would move to an annual borrowing limit of $20,500 and an aggregate limit of $100,000beginning in 2026. Public health-related degrees, such as the MPH, are included in this category. Only programs formally classified as “professional degrees” by the Department —such as MD, JD, and DDS programs—would qualify for the higher borrowing limits set in the proposal.
The Department also outlined proposed updates to Parent PLUS borrowing rules and repayment frameworks. Some existing repayment plans would be phased out by 2028, and a new Repayment Assistance Plan would include updated requirements for what counts as an on-time monthly payment. Additionally, the draft regulations would allow borrowers two opportunities to rehabilitate a defaulted loan, rather than one.
These proposals remain under review. Final regulations are expected in 2026, with implementation planned for July 1, 2026. NASOMH is sharing this information to keep partners, members, and stakeholders informed about federal policy activity that may affect students and families within the communities we serve.
