Diego Vita/THE RIDER
Certain college programs could lose eligibility for federal student loans beginning July 1, 2027, if their graduates fail to meet specific earnings requirements under a new U.S. Department of Education rule.
UTRGV personnel said they are monitoring the U.S. Department of Education’s Earnings Accountability Rule but do not have enough information to determine which university programs may be affected.
Under the new framework, undergraduate programs will be evaluated against the earnings of high school diploma holders, while graduate programs will be compared with those who hold bachelor’s degrees.
Programs who fail the measurement in two of the three consecutive award years will lose eligibility to participate in federal direct loan programs for at least two years, according to the Department of Education.
The Department of Education said the rule is intended to protect students from borrowing for programs which do not improve their earnings and to hold colleges accountable for graduates’ financial outcomes.
In an emailed response, UTRGV said it is awaiting additional information and guidance.
“At this time, however, we do not have sufficient information to determine which programs, if any, may be impacted at UTRGV,” said university personnel.
Diego Vita/THE RIDER
Tyra Taylor, a nutritional science senior, said she had not heard about the changes to federal student loans but the changes raised concerns.
“For a lot of people I know, it’s like, the only way that they’re even able to get an education,” Taylor said.
She said students who depend on loans could face challenges pursuing the career they want.
“I think for some students that rely on those federal loans, it’s like limiting their choice for pursuing the education that they want, or pursuing the career they want,” Taylor said.
Abigail Beaver, a theatre education sophomore, said she has cut two classes, applied for work-study and looked for scholarships to help cover her school expenses.
Beaver said she worries uncertainty about loan access may discourage students from continuing their education.
“I know people who are considering even dropping out, and like, not pursuing an education just because they are scared they’re not going to be able to access those loans or even get any in the first place,” she said.
Beaver added scholarships provide uncertainty because applying does not automatically guarantee an award.
She said she would not consider applying for a private loan due to their interest rates and repayment requirements.
Taylor said lawmakers should consider the contributions that graduates make across different professions.
“They’re all, like, important,” she said. “All of them.”
