How much will federal loans cover, and what’s left?
In July 2026, federal loan limits changed for parents and for graduate and professional students. Enter your numbers to see what federal loans could cover each year, and the gap you’d need to plan for.
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This planner is a simplified estimate for planning, not financial advice or an offer of aid. It assumes you borrow only what you need after grants and savings, and that you’re eligible for federal loans. Parent PLUS and private loans require a credit check. Annual loan amounts can’t exceed your cost of attendance minus other aid, and schools may set lower limits. Which programs count as “professional” is still being decided in court. Confirm everything with studentaid.gov and each school’s financial aid office. Reviewed October 11, 2026.
Understand the rules behind the numbers
Paying for college after the 2026 changes
The new FAFSA, Pell Grant rules, Parent PLUS limits and comparing offers.
Paying for schoolPaying for graduate school after the 2026 loan changes
New limits, the end of Grad PLUS, RAP and Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
Equity & accessFee waivers and free help
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