St. Thomas University: Federal Aid Changes 2026

St. Thomas University students will see significant changes to federal financial aid starting July 1, 2026, when new federal legislation takes effect for the 2026–2027 academic year.

Graduate students will no longer qualify for Grad PLUS Loans. They can still borrow Direct Unsubsidized Loans, but at revised limits. Parent PLUS Loans for undergraduates will continue with an annual cap of $20,000 per student and a lifetime limit of $65,000. A new cumulative federal loan limit of $257,500 will apply across most programs.

Pell Grant eligibility will tighten under the 2026–2027 FAFSA. Students with a Student Aid Index exceeding twice the maximum Pell Grant amount will no longer qualify, as will students whose total aid covers their full cost of attendance.

The FAFSA will incorporate additional income sources and certain foreign income into eligibility calculations. Asset protections for family farms and small businesses will return.

St. Thomas University's financial aid office said students should submit the FAFSA annually, apply for scholarships early, and contact the office with questions. Federal grants, loans, institutional scholarships, merit awards, and state aid remain available.