2026–2027 FAFSA® Changes
Beginning July 1, 2026, Federal Financial Aid rules will change due to new legislation. These changes may affect how loans and grants are awarded to BYU-Idaho students.
Because federal guidance is still being finalized, some details may change. This page reflects our current understanding and will be updated as more information becomes available.
Timeline
Spring Semester Updates (June 10, 2026)
Most 2026–2027 financial aid for the Spring semester has now been disbursed.
If you have not yet received your loans, it may be due to one of the following:
- You have not completed a Master Promissory Note (MPN) or Entrance Counseling — both are required before loans can be released. Check your financial aid portal!
- You are enrolled in fewer than 12 credits — new 2026–2027 regulations require loan amounts to be reduced if enrollment is less than full-time. This process is still being finalized, so disbursement of these loans is delayed and may not be ready this semester.
Students enrolled in fewer than 12 credits who need loans should complete the 2025–2026 FAFSA® before June 30th. Aid awarded through the 2025–2026 FAFSA® is not subject to the new credit-based loan adjustment rules and is not dependent on the same government timeline.
For any other questions about your Spring Aid, reach out to the Financial Aid office.
Federal Student Loan Changes
Loan Amounts Based on Enrollment
Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans will be more closely tied to your credit level:
Full-time enrollment (12 credits each semester) = full loan offer
- Loan amounts will be reduced if you enroll in fewer than 12 Program Applicable credits or drop below 12 credits in a semester.
- If you drop classes after receiving a loan, the adjustment may occur in your next semester's loan offer.
- Students must still be enrolled in at least 6 credits to be eligible for federal loans.
Pell Grant Changes
Cost of Attendance (COA) Limitation
Beginning in 2026–2027:
- Students whose non-federal grants, scholarships, or other benefits fully cover their Cost of Attendance (COA) will not be eligible for a Federal Pell Grant.
- If your non-federal aid covers only part of your COA, you may still qualify for Pell.
- Dropping classes could affect your Cost of Attendance.
COA includes tuition, books and supplies, transportation, personal expenses, housing, and food.
Parent PLUS Loan Limits
Beginning July 1, 2026:
For new Parent PLUS borrowers:
- $20,000 maximum per academic year per student
- $65,000 maximum per student
For existing Parent PLUS borrowers (before July 1, 2026):
- May continue under previous rules
- For up to 3 years or until the student graduates, whichever comes first
Repayment Plan Changes
Beginning July 1, 2026:
- Repayment options will depend on when your loans are first disbursed.
- A new Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) will be introduced.
- Some existing repayment plans will be phased out over time.
Important Notes
- These changes apply to students using the 2026–2027 FAFSA®.
- Many details are still being finalized by the federal government.
- This page will be updated as additional guidance becomes available.
