On January 29, 2026, the U.S. Department of Education released the Reimagining and Improving Student Education proposed rule that, if enacted, would reclassify dozens of professional degree programs (including physical therapy) as “graduate degree programs” for the purposes of federal student loan borrowing limits. 

Under this proposal, “graduate degree programs” would have an annual borrowing limit of $20,500 and a lifetime cap of $100,000. In contrast, programs designated as “professional degree programs” would continue to have a $50,000 annual limit and a $200,000 total cap. As a result, future physical therapy students would face significantly lower federal student loan limits. While APTA supports efforts to reduce the cost of education, students often need loans for cost-of-living expenses such as housing, utilities, transportation, technology, food, and childcare. Contrary to congressional intent, this proposal would create new barriers for prospective students and negatively affect the health care workforce at a time of nationwide shortages. 

For physical therapists and aspiring physical therapists, now is the time to act. Raise your voice by submitting a letter to the department urging it to classify the doctor of physical therapy as a professional degree with access to the higher loan limits. Most importantly, be sure to share your personal story by adding anecdotes about your education and loan status. ED wants to hear from you and has specifically asked for personalized comments. Please speak up for the future of the physical therapy profession today. Comments are due March 2, 2026.