The Department of Education (ED) has opened public comment on a new and deeply flawed proposed rule that would not recognize PA programs — and many other graduate healthcare programs — as being recognized as professional degrees. If finalized, future PA students would be limited to $20,500 in federal loans per academic year. All PAs, PA students and pre-PAs are urged to submit personalized comments to ED by March 2.

 ED’s proposed rule is a serious threat to students pursuing careers as a PA.  Although the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) allows “professional students” to borrow up to $50,000 per year and $200,000 total in federal loans, the Department’s proposal would inappropriately exclude physician assistant/associate (PA) students—along with advanced practice nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other health professions—from that category. Excluding PAs could drastically reduce student enrollment and exacerbate workforce shortages. And labeling PAs as anything other than professionals ignores the rigor, cost, and purpose of PA education.

ED has opened the public comment period on this proposed rule.  Now is the moment for action.  By submitting a comment before March 2, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST, advocates can urge the agency to honor OBBBA’s definition of professional students and safeguard access to student loans that can make PA careers possible for so many future PAs. 

Your voice matters. Please share your story and comments today to ensure that PA students can have access to financial resources at the higher professional degree limit and that the PA pipeline is protected.