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Updates and Information for 26-27

One Big Beautiful Bill Act Updates and Information

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (H.R.1) was signed into law on July 4, 2025 and makes changes to federal financial aid programs (also called Title IV aid).

Most of these changes are expected to impact students beginning July 1, 2026 and the 2026–2027 FAFSA. 

These updates may affect how financial aid is calculated, awarded, and repaid. Because guidance is still being finalized, information may continue to change. HGTC will update this page as new details are provided.

We understand that students and families may have questions, and so do we. This is a nationwide transition, and colleges are continuing to receive updates as well.

Use the sections below to learn what’s changing, how it may affect you, and how to prepare.

FAFSA Changes

  • Family farms and family-owned small businesses will no longer be counted as assets (reverting to rules before FAFSA Simplification).
    • Family Farm – Farms on which the family resides.
    • Small Business – 100 or fewer full-time (or full-time equivalent) employees.
  • Family-owned commercial fisheries are now also exempt from asset reporting.
  • Foreign income must now be included in the Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) for Pell Grant eligibility.

What this means for you

Some families may qualify for more aid, and the FAFSA may be simpler for certain households.

Pell Grant Changes

  • Students with an SAI greater than twice the maximum Pell Grant amount will be ineligible for any Pell Grant.

For example, if the max Pell Grant is $7395, students with an SAI over $14,790 will no longer qualify for Pell.

  • Students receiving scholarships that cover their full cost of attendance won’t be eligible for Pell.

What this means for you

Eligibility for Pell Grants may change depending on your financial situation and other aid you receive.

Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Student Loans (undergraduate) Changes

  • Loans eligibility will be based on your enrollment status. If you are enrolled less than full-time (12 credit hours) your loan amount will be reduced.
  • Changes to your enrollment, like dropping or withdrawing from class(es) may reduce your loan or cancel part of your loan.

What this means for you

Loan amounts are directly tied to how many classes you are taking.  Staying enrolled in your planned courses helps avoid unexpected changes. 

Parent PLUS Loan Changes

  • New borrowing limits will apply:
    • $20,000 per year per student
    • $65,000 aggregate (lifetime) per student

What this means for families

For many students at HGTC, Parent PLUS Loans may still cover costs while completing a two-year associate degree; however, students planning to transfer through a Bridge or transfer program to a four-year college or university should plan ahead.

Because Parent PLUS Loans now have a lifetime limit per student, families may have less borrowing available in future years, especially during the final year at a four-year institution where costs are often higher.

Families are encouraged to plan for the full cost of a bachelor’s degree—not just the first two years—and explore additional funding options early if needed.

Repayment Options

  • Students who borrow loans starting July 1, 2026 or later will have two main repayment options:
    • Fixed-payment plan (10-25 years)
    • Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) based on income
  • Old borrowers on income-driven plans (SAVE, PAYE, ICR) end by July 1, 2028 and will be required to switch to the fixed-payment plan or Repayment Assistance Plan.

What this means for you

Loan repayment options will be simpler but more limited, so it is important to understand your choices before borrowing.

What You Can Do Now

To prepare for the upcoming changes:

  • Complete your FAFSA.
  • Review your financial aid offer carefully.
  • Stay enrolled in your planned courses.
  • Borrow only what you need.
  • Contact the HGTC Financial Aid Office with questions.

We Are Here to Help

HGTC is closely monitoring federal guidance and will continue to update this page.

If you have questions about how these changes may affect your financial aid, please reach out to our office. We are here to support you.