Federal Student Aid Rule Faces Legal Challenges Over Professional Degree Definitions

Litigation is challenging the U.S. Department of Education's RISE Final Rule, specifically its definitions for "professional degree" programs regarding federal loan eligibility. Two cases, "AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF NURSE PRACTITIONERS v. MCMAHON" and "STATE OF MARYLAND v. UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION," are ongoing. Court rulings are anticipated after December 4 and November 6, 2026, respectively, potentially impacting federal student aid policies and borrowing limits for graduate and professional programs.