Under the final rule, “graduate degree programs” now have an annual borrowing limit of $20,500 and a lifetime cap of $100,000. In contrast, programs designated as “professional degree programs” will have a $50,000 annual limit and a $200,000 total cap. As a result, future physical therapy students will face significantly lower federal student loan limits. While APTA supports efforts to reduce the cost of education, this arbitrary rule, contrary to congressional intent, will create new barriers for prospective students and negatively affect the health care workforce at a time of nationwide shortages.

Congress has already started pushing back on the Department’s approach. Notably, H.R. 6574, H.R. 6677/S. 4039, and H.R. 6718 have been introduced to ensure that students in physical therapy programs are able to afford their education.

Please take a few minutes to send an email to your members of Congress urging them to support these pieces of legislation.