Federal Student Aid Changes Impact Part-Time and Graduate Students Under One Big Beautiful Bill Act

Recent changes to federal student aid, enacted by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act in July 2025, are now significantly affecting part-time and graduate students. Previously, students taking six credit hours qualified for federal loans, but now a total of 24 credit hours across fall and spring semesters is required for the full amount of financial aid. Students taking fewer credit hours will receive aid proportionally, and even hardship withdrawals can impact future loan availability. The new FAFSA for 2027 loans is set to be available on October 1.