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What’s Changing?
Starting July 1, 2026:
New Borrowers Parent PLUS Loan program is changing under the OBBBA (One Big Beautiful Bill Act). If you’re a parent planning to help your student pay for college with a PLUS Loan, here’s what you need to know.
If your student is considered a new borrower (has not borrowed a Federal Direct Subsidized or Unsubsidized loan in their current program prior to June 22, 2026:
- You can borrow up to $20,000 per year for your student.
- There’s also a lifetime limit of $65,000 per dependent student.
Interim Exception for Students Who Have Borrowed A Direct Loan
If your student has borrowed a Federal Direct Subsidized or Unsubsidized loan in their current program prior to June 22, 2026, you may be eligible for an interim exception that will allow you to continue borrowing under the current program rules for a limited time.
Your Student’s Interim Exception lasts until the earliest of:
- Your student’s published program completion date
- When your student actually completes the program
- If your student withdraws from a term
- Or three academic years after July 1, 2026
Think of it as a temporary bridge between the old rules while and the new system phases in.
What This Means for WSU Families
If your family has relied on Parent PLUS Loans to cover a large portion of educational costs, these changes may require some planning. You may want to explore:
- WSU’s payment plan options
- Private educational loans
- Additional scholarships or grants
Our office is here to help you navigate the transition and understand what your options look like under the new rules.
Before we can talk to you about your student’s financial aid, be sure to check if you have proxy at wichita.edu/proxy.
Need help? Call us at 316-978-3430.
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More information on the OBBBA changes can be found at wichita.edu/finaidannouncements or https://studentaid.gov/announcements-events/big-updates