Core Insights - The Department of Education is eliminating the Grad PLUS loan program starting the 2026-27 academic year, which previously allowed graduate students to borrow enough to cover their entire education costs [1] - The new loan limits are expected to encourage schools to lower tuition costs, but additional measures are needed to ensure accessibility for all potential students [1] Summary by Sections Loan Program Changes - The Grad PLUS loan program will be eliminated for new graduate students, which previously allowed borrowing to cover total education costs [1] - The Department of Education states that the previous Grad PLUS loan limits contributed to rising graduate tuition costs [1] Tuition Cost Implications - In-state tuition and fees for the average graduate program rose from $19,637 in the 2011-2012 academic year to an adjusted $20,513 a decade later [1] - Experts suggest that the elimination of the Grad PLUS program will compel colleges to prioritize students and incentivize them to reduce tuition and fees [1] Accessibility Concerns - Graduate students will still have access to federal unsubsidized loans, capped at $200,000 for their entire graduate education, which is lower than the previous Grad PLUS loan limits [1] - The average medical degree costs approximately $232,100, leaving students to cover over $30,000 in education costs, potentially requiring private loans [1] Recommendations for Improvement - Researchers recommend that state governments offer grants or student loans to address critical needs, such as teacher training in states facing shortages [1] - There is a need for private lenders to expand access to loans for graduate students, as nearly 14% may have poor credit scores or lack co-signers [1]