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You may see references online or in the news to a new federal law called the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, often referred to as OB3. We want to help you understand what this means, when it applies, and how ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ is here to support you.
 
What Is OB3?
OB3 is a federal law signed in July 2025 that makes changes to how federal student loans and some aid programs work. These changes were designed at the national level and apply to colleges and universities across the United States.
 
Some parts of OB3 took effect right away, while other changes, especially those related to federal student loans and borrowing limits, require additional implementation guidelines from the U.S. Department of Education before they can be fully implemented.

When Do These Changes Apply?
OB3-related changes to federal student aid are expected to begin with the 2026–2027 award year (Fall 2026–Summer 2027).

Because federal rulemaking is still in progress, some details may be clarified or adjusted before the final rules are issued.

What Might Change Starting in 2026–2027?
Based on current federal guidance, OB3 may introduce changes such as:

• New limits on how much students or parents can borrow through federal loan programs.
• Elimination of Graduate PLUS Loan availability.
• Loan amounts that vary based on enrollment level (for example, full-time vs. part-time).

The exact details, including how these changes apply to specific programs or students will be finalized once the U.S. Department of Education publishes its final regulations at the end of June 2026.

What Is Not Changing Right Now?

• Your current financial aid is not affected.
• There are no changes to aid already awarded for 2025–2026.

We’re Here to Guide You
We understand that changes to federal financial aid can feel overwhelming.

Please know:

• You are not expected to navigate these changes on your own.
• Excelsior will continue to communicate updates as federal guidance is finalized.
• Our Financial Aid team is here to help you understand your options and plan ahead.

This page will be updated as more information becomes available from the U.S. Department of Education. We are closely monitoring updates and guidance to best prepare students.

If you have questions or concerns, we encourage you to reach out to our Financial Aid team at VAFA@excelsior.edu or call 855-323-9235. We’re here to help!