Navigating Student Loan Changes

In This Section

Sweeping changes to federal student loan programs from the One Big Beautiful Bill will go into effect July 1, 2026. This page will offer resources and education to help dental students like you effectively navigate the changes and prepare for the future. Check back regularly for updated education and resources.

How Changes will Impact Current and Future Borrowers

Access to Repayment Plans

For Loans Dispersed Before July 1, 2026

Federal Direct Loans or Grad PLUS Loans taken out prior to July 1, 2026 can be repaid using the following programs until 2028:

Standard, Graduate, or Extended Repayment Plans
Income-Based Repayment (IBR) Plan
Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR) Plan
Pay As You Earn (PAYE) Repayment Plan

By July 1, 2028, borrowers will need to enroll in one of the following plans:

Standard, Graduate, or Extended Repayment Plans
Tiered Standard Repayment Plan
Income-Based Repayment (IBR) Plan
Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP)

Payments on federal student loans generally start six months upon graduation. For more information and to determine which repayment plan may be best for you, visit the Department of Education website.

For Loans Dispersed after July 1, 2026

Federal Direct Loans or Grad PLUS Loans taken out after July 1, 2026 can be repaid using the following programs:

Tiered Standard Repayment Plan
Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP)

Payments on federal student loans generally start six months upon graduation. For more information and to determine which repayment plan may be best for you, visit the Department of Education website.

Information

ASDA members have access to educational opportunities and resources to help successfully pay for dental school.

Learn More

ASDA members receive exclusive benefits from College Ave. Explore them here.

Informational Webinars

Recorded Webinar
On Dec. 4, ASDA hosted a webinar that demystified the borrowing process and gave students the proper tools to make informed decisions before, during and after dental school. College Ave's Katrina Delgrosso aided attendees in building a clear roadmap to manage student loans confidently and strategically.

Recorded Webinar
On Sept. 4, ASDA hosted a webinar that examined how recent changes to federal student loans will reshape borrowing and repayment. The webinar featured speakers who provided insights and analysis on how these changes affect current dental students and those looking to get into dental school.

Jon Fansmith from the American Council on Education provided information on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act related to federal student financial aid while Katrina Delgrosso from College Ave will offer resources and information on alternative borrowing options.

Scholarships, Grants and Loan Repayment Programs

Scholarships, grants and payment programs exist for dental students. View the non-exhaustive list that ASDA has put together to explore potential options.