The One Big Beautiful Bill was signed into law on July 4 and included sweeping changes to federal student loan programs. 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
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Current Borrowers (through the 25-26 school year)
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New Borrowers
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Cap of $50k per year or $200k total for professional degree programs for Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans
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Cap of $50k per year or $200k total for professional degree programs for Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans
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May borrow up to the cost of attendance for the duration of their program with Grad PLUS loans.
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No access to Grad PLUS loans
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Must enroll in one of the following repayment programs by July 2028:
- Standard repayment plan
- Income-Based Repayment (IBR) plan
- Repayment Assistance Program (RAP), scheduled to launch in 2026
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Will have access to the following repayment programs:
- Standard repayment plan
- Repayment Assistance Program (RAP), scheduled to launch in 2026
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*These changes will go into effect in July 2026
Loan Connections
With the changes listed above, you may need to pursue private loans to fund the remainder of your dental student program. ASDA partners with College Ave to provide members affordable loans, guides and articles, loan repayment calculators, FAQs and more.
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ASDA members receive exclusive benefits from College Ave. Explore them here.
Informational 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.
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Army Dentistry
The US Army offers programs and incentives to prospective and current dental students as well as practicing dentists. These programs range from potential financial support to partial repayment of student loans. Explore the program and incentives to see if any are right for you.
Explore Potential Opportunities
Health Profession Scholarship Program (HPSP)
Three branches of the US military offer a Health Profession Scholarship, with varying qualifications and requirements. Review the programs on each branch’s site: US Navy, Army or Air Force.