Archive · 6 Aug 2025
Grad School: Navigating New Loan Limits & Saving Money
Going to grad school can be expensive, but there are ways to make it more affordable!
The government is changing how much you can borrow, starting in 2026, so it's good to know the limits.
To save money, look for cheaper schools like online programs or in-state universities.
You can also apply for scholarships, grants, or fellowships – this is free money!
If you have time, you can work while in school to help cover costs.
Consider a shorter program as well.
Even part-time jobs can help you avoid borrowing a lot of money.
Federal student loan limits for graduate students will change beginning July 1, 2026.
Graduate students can borrow $20,500 per year with a $100,000 lifetime limit.
Professional students can borrow $50,000 annually with a $200,000 lifetime limit.
Attending an affordable program is one way to lower grad school costs.
Scholarships, fellowships, grants, and working while in school can help cover costs.
- Who
- Graduate and professional students.
- What
- Changes to federal student loan borrowing limits and strategies to reduce graduate school costs.
- When
- New federal student loan limits start July 1, 2026.
- Where
- N/A
- Why
- To mitigate the cost of graduate education.
Perspective 1: Borrowing Limits
Perspective 2: Reducing Expenses
Borrowing Limits
Perspective 1: Borrowing Limits
Stricter limits, will mean some students will need to find alternate funding
Perspective 2: Reducing Expenses
Reduce the amount of money that needs to be repaid.
- Graduate Student Annual Loan Limit (after July 1, 2026)
- $20,500
- Graduate Student Lifetime Loan Limit (after July 1, 2026)
- $100,000
- Professional Student Annual Loan Limit (after July 1, 2026)
- $50,000
- Professional Student Lifetime Loan Limit (after July 1, 2026)
- $200,000
- Employer Tuition Assistance Offered
- 47% of employers