To support student success, Lindenwood University is sharing information about upcoming changes to federal student loan programs under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, that will take effect on July 1, 2026. These updates are intended to simplify federal student aid programs and may have an impact on eligibility and borrowing options for some students and families.
Enrollment-Based Loan Limits, Undergraduate Students
Beginning with the 2026–27 academic year, federal loan amounts will be prorated when enrollment is less than full-time. Students enrolled full-time (12 credit hours or more per semester) will generally receive their full annual federal loan eligibility, split between terms. Eligibility and award amounts will be prorated if final enrollment status is less than full-time after the drop and add period.
Parent PLUS Loan Updates, Undergraduate Students
The Federal Parent PLUS Loan program will continue to be available; however, new borrowing limits will apply. The annual, maximum amount that can be borrowed is $20,000 per dependent student, per academic year, regardless of whether one parent or both parents apply. The combined borrowing cannot exceed the annual limit. The lifetime borrowing limit will be up to $65,000 per dependent student. Students and families with federal loans disbursed before July 1, 2026, may qualify for temporary legacy borrower provisions. Eligibility for these provisions is subject to federal regulations and institutional review.
Federal Loan Changes, Graduate Students
Beginning July 1, 2026, the Federal Graduate PLUS Loan Program will no longer be available to new borrowers. Graduate students who first borrow federal graduate loans on or after July 1, 2026, will be limited to Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans.
Enrollment-Based Loan Proration, Graduate Students
Beginning with the 2026–27 academic year, federal loan amounts will be prorated when enrollment is less than full-time. Students enrolled full-time (6 credit hours or more per semester) will generally receive their full annual federal loan eligibility, split between terms. Eligibility and award amounts will be prorated if a student’s final enrollment status is less than full-time after the drop and add period.
Legacy Borrower Provision, Graduate Students
Graduate students who received a federal graduate-level loan for their current program before July 1, 2026, and remain continuously enrolled in the same program at the same institution, may qualify for a temporary exception to continue borrowing under the current federal loan rules. Under current guidance, eligible students may continue to access existing borrowing options, including Graduate PLUS Loans, for up to three academic years or until completion of their current program, whichever occurs first. Eligibility is subject to federal regulations and institutional review.
Supporting Your Success, All Students
To help maximize financial aid eligibility and remain on track toward degree completion, Lindenwood University encourages students to maintain continuous enrollment in the chosen academic program; seek guidance from an academic advisor and financial aid advisor before switching program of study; enroll full-time whenever possible; successfully complete all attempted coursework and avoid unnecessary withdrawals; maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP); and meet regularly with the academic advisor to ensure timely progress toward graduation.
Additional Information and Resources, All Students
Lindenwood’s Student Financial Services office is committed to helping students and supporters understand how these changes may affect educational financing options. Questions regarding eligibility and borrowing limits can be directed to the Financial Aid Advisors at Lindenwood, who are ready to assist. Additional information is also available on the Federal Updates and Resources page.