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Federal Student Aid Changes Starting Fall 2026

Changes to federal financial aid eligibility and Direct Loan programs take effect July 1, 2026, and may impact how you and your family pay for college. The Boise State Financial Aid and Scholarships Office wants every Bronco and their family to know about these updates so you can plan confidently for Fall 2026 and beyond.

We’re here to help you build a solid financial plan. Stop by our office in the Administration Building any weekday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.—no appointment needed—or contact us by email or phone.

Undergraduate Student Changes

  • Parent PLUS loan borrowers will be limited to $20,000 per year per student.
  • Parent PLUS loan borrowers’ lifetime aggregate limit will be $65,000 per student.
  • Direct student loan offers will be prorated for students enrolled less than full-time during the academic year.
  • Students with a Student Aid Index (SAI) that is equal to or greater than twice the maximum Pell Grant award amount will no longer be eligible for the Pell Grant during that academic year.
  • Students who receive non-federal scholarships or grants that cover their total cost of attendance (COA) will lose Pell Grant eligibility for that academic year.
  • The net worth of certain family farms and small businesses will be excluded from the Student Aid Index (SAI) calculation.
  • Foreign income will be included in the adjusted gross income (AGI) when determining Pell Grant eligibility.

Graduate Student Changes

  • The Graduate PLUS loan will no longer be available to new borrowers.
  • Direct Unsubsidized borrowing limits remain $20,500 annually with a maximum of $100,000 per student.
  • Direct loan offers will be prorated for students who are enrolled less than full-time during the academic year.
  • The maximum lifetime aggregate per student borrower will be $257,500.

Borrowers who have received a loan for a program that has already started as of June 30, 2026, may be exempt from the above borrowing caps for up to three years as they complete their program and remain continuously enrolled.

Available Boise State Resources

The Boise State Financial Aid and Scholarships Office is all about removing roadblocks so every Bronco can start and finish strong. We work hard to keep the financial aid process straightforward and keep you in the loop on every next step.

Have questions about applying or eligibility?

Boise State Online students:

Money Matters

Money Matters helps every Bronco build smart money habits that last a lifetime. Our representatives work one-on-one with you to create a personalized plan for paying for college and beyond.
Book a Money Matters appointment or visit us on the first floor of the Administration Building.

Book a Money Matters Appointment

Boise State Scholarship Application

Boise State’s Scholarship Application is your one-stop resource for current and continuing Broncos to apply for university scholarships. This application is open to all students for awards that fund the upcoming academic year.

Apply for Boise State Scholarships

ELMSelect

Boise State helps undergraduate and graduate Broncos shop and compare trusted private education lenders that fellow students have used successfully. You can choose any lender—even ones not on the list. The ELMSelect lineup is refreshed every year to keep options strong.

ELMSelect

Additional Resources

Student Account Payment Plans offer more flexibility for paying your fees. Basic needs resources are available to help support you with finances and financial hardships.