The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (H.R.1), signed into law on July 4, 2025, introduces significant changes to the federal Title IV student aid programs. Some of these changes impact Federal Direct Undergraduate Loans. These updates will take effect on July 1, 2026.
Notice of Regulatory Status: The U.S. Department of Education has not yet issued the final regulations for the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Consequently, the information and answers provided below reflect our best interpretation of the legislation and the preliminary outcomes of the Negotiated Rulemaking sessions. These details are subject to change once the official "Final Rules" are published. While a specific release date has not been set, the Department is expected to finalize these regulations by June 1, 2026. The Office of Student Financial Aid Services is actively monitoring the legislation and its implementation details. This page will be updated regularly as additional guidance becomes available from the U.S. Department of Education.
Current Limits (Before July 1, 2026)
Annual and aggregate limits are based on dependency status
Dependent Students
Freshman: $5,500
Sophomore: $6,500
Junior/Senior: $7,500
Independent Students
Freshman: $9,500
Sophomore: $10,500
Junior/Senior: $12,500
Maximum Lifetime Loan Limit:
Dependent: $31,000 total
Independent: $57,500 total
Changes Effective July 1, 2026
Loans must be reduced when students are not enrolled full-time. The reduction is based on their enrollment status. Full Time Enrollment Status at NJIT: