OBBBA clearly defines professional students as those in programs that provide education beyond the bachelor’s level, prepare students to meet the academic requirements for professional practice, and lead to licensure. PA programs meet all of these criteria: they are rigorous, graduate-level programs designed to prepare students for national certification and state licensure to practice as part of the health care team. Excluding PA students from professional-level borrowing contradicts the law’s intent and undermines the purpose of their education.
The impact of this proposed rule would be substantial. Nearly half of PA students borrow more than $100,000 to complete their programs, according to PAEA’s most recent Student Report. Limiting federal loans to $20,500 per year would create a funding gap that could force students to rely on high-interest private loans—or prevent them from pursuing the profession entirely. The result would be fewer PA graduates, longer patient wait times, and reduced access to care, particularly in underserved communities. Similar challenges would affect other health professions targeted by the proposal.
The Department is now accepting public comments on this proposed rule. Advocates can play a critical role by submitting a personalized comment before March 2, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST to urge the agency to follow OBBBA’s definition of professional students and protect access to the loans necessary for completing professional training. Your voice can help ensure that PA students and other essential health professionals continue to have the support they need to enter the workforce.