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Financing Your Walden Education

Making confident decisions about your future starts with financial clarity. Explore funding options, opportunities to lower tuition costs, and how recent legislation may impact your Walden degree program.

Helping You Navigate Federal Changes

As of July 1, 2026, new legislation will significantly limit federal borrowing, especially for graduate and professional students. This means federal aid alone may not cover the full cost of your education.

You don’t have to sort through these changes on your own. Walden is here to help you understand your options, get answers to your questions about funding, and feel prepared as you take the next step.

Important Update

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act was signed into law on July 4, 2025. This law makes significant changes to federal financial aid programs—including new loan limits, new loan repayment options, and updated eligibility requirements, for both current and future students.1

Most Changes Take Effect July 1, 2026, for the 2026–2027 Award Year

Questions? We’re Here to Help

Future Students: Speak with an Enrollment Specialist

Current Students: Contact Financial Services Support by phone at 1-800-925-3368 or via chat in myWalden.

Take Action: Complete both the 2025 –2026 and 2026–2027 FAFSA as soon as possible. The 2025–2026 FAFSA will be unavailable after June 30, 2026— don't miss out!

Ways to Fund Your Education

We’re committed to helping you reach your goals. That’s why Walden offers a range of options to manage the cost of your degree.

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Federal Student Loans

Walden is approved by the U.S. Department of Education to participate in a variety of federal aid programs.

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Scholarships

Explore grants and scholarships that can help lower your tuition costs, for those who apply and qualify.

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Private Education Loans

Private student loans are offered by banks, credit unions, or other lenders to help pay for education costs.

Federal Loan Changes

What It Means for You

As of July 1, 2026, new legislation will restructure federal financial aid. No matter where you are in your education journey, we’ll help you understand your options and find a path forward that works for you. 

Questions? We’re Here to Help

Future Students: Speak with an Enrollment Specialist

Current Students: Contact Financial Services Support by phone at 1-800-925-3368 or via chat in myWalden.

I am a:

CURRENT UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT

You are currently enrolled in an undergraduate program that starts on or before June 30, 2026.

What’s staying the same:

Undergraduate Subsidized and Unsubsidized Direct Loan Limits

The Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loan limits are staying the same

Annual loan limit: $5,500 to $12,500

Aggregate loan limits: $31,000 for dependent students or $57,500 for independent students

What’s changing:

Reduced Annual Loan Amounts for Students Enrolled Less Than Full Time

If you enroll less than full time (12 credits per quarter or semester) over a full academic year, the annual amount of loans you qualify for will be reduced proportionally.  

For example: If you enroll in 10 credits each quarter (83% of full-time enrollment), your annual amount will be reduced by 17%. Note that this change takes effect with the 2026–2027 award year and is applicable to all students, including those eligible for the grandfathering provision.

What can you do?  If you can, enroll full time to avoid any reduction in your loans. If you plan to enroll less than full time and need additional funding, consider other financing options.

Tempo Learning® Students: You are always considered full time when enrolled in the Tempo Learning® modality. As a result your loans will not be reduced under this new rule.

Parent PLUS Loan Limits

New borrowers will have per-student annual and aggregate limits on their Parent PLUS loans.

Annual: $20,000 per year, per student

Aggregate: $65,000 per student

What can you do? If you need additional funding, consider other financing options.

Pell Grant Eligibility

The new legislation makes minor changes to the eligibility requirements for the Pell Grant.

These include:

  • Excluding some assets from family businesses and commercial fishing operations.
  • Including foreign income.
  • Creating a cap on Pell Grant eligibility; students with a Student Aid Index (SAI) twice the maximum Pell Grant award will not be eligible for Pell Grants.
  • Other gift aid limitations; students with grants and scholarships from all non-federal sources that equal or exceed the cost of attendance will not be eligible for Pell Grants. 

Exception for Current Students: Grandfathering Provision

Current Walden students may qualify for a limited grandfathering provision that delays the start of the new Parent PLUS loan limits.

To qualify for this grandfathering provision, you must:

  • Enroll and begin courses on or before June 30, 2026.
  • Receive a Direct Loan disbursement on or before June 30, 2026, for your program. This includes Direct Subsidized, Unsubsidized, and PLUS loans.

The grandfathering provision lasts until one of these events occurs:

  • Three academic years pass
  • The remaining normal program completion time passes
  • You stop being continuously enrolled
     
FUTURE UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT

You are starting an undergraduate program on or after July 1, 2026.

What’s changing:

Reduced Annual Loan Amounts for Students Enrolled Less Than Full Time

If you enroll less than full time (12 credits per quarter or semester) over a full academic year, the annual amount of loans you qualify for will be reduced proportionally. 

For example: If you enroll in 10credits each quarter (83% of full-time enrollment), your annual amount will be reduced by 17%.

What can you do? If you can, enroll full time to avoid any reduction in your loans. If you plan to enroll less than full time and need additional funding, consider other financing options.

Parent PLUS Loan Limits

New borrowers will have per-student annual and aggregate limits on their Parent PLUS loans.

Annual: $20,000 per year, per student

Aggregate: $65,000 per student

What can you do? If you need additional funding, consider other financing options.

Pell Grant Eligibility

The new legislation makes minor changes to the eligibility requirements for the Pell Grant.

These include:

  • Excluding some assets from family businesses and commercial fishing operations.
  • Including foreign income.
  • Creating a cap on Pell Grant eligibility; students with a Student Aid Index (SAI) twice the maximum Pell Grant award will not be eligible for Pell Grants.
  • Other gift aid limitations; students with grants and scholarships from all non-federal sources that equal or exceed the cost of attendance will not be eligible for Pell Grants. 
CURRENT GRADUATE STUDENT

You are currently enrolled in a graduate or professional program (e.g., master’s degree, doctoral degree, graduate certificate) that starts prior to July 1, 2026.

New Loan Limits

The law makes major changes to loan limits for graduate and professional students.

Graduate PLUS loans will no longer be available for new borrowers starting July 1, 2026.  Current borrowers who qualify under the grandfathering provision may receive Graduate PLUS loans as long as they continue to meet the applicable eligibility requirements.

Type of ProgramAnnual LimitAggregate Limit
Graduate programs$20,500$100,000
Professional programs (currently only the PhD in Clinical Psychology)$50,000$200,000

View additional loan limit information.

What can you do? If you need additional funding, consider other financing options.

Reduced Annual Loan Amounts for Students Enrolled Less Than Full Time

If you enroll less than full time over a full academic year, the annual amount of loans you qualify for will be reduced proportionally.  

For example: If you enroll halftime, or 3 credits per quarter/semester, your annual loan amount will be reduced by half. Note that this change takes effect with the 2026–2027 award year and is applicable to all students, including those eligible for the grandfathering provision.

What can you do? If you can, enroll full time to avoid any reduction in your loans. If you plan to enroll less than full time and need additional funding, consider other financing options.

Tempo Learning® Students: You are always considered full time when enrolled in the Tempo Learning® modality. As a result your loans will not be reduced under this new rule.

Exception for Current Students: Grandfathering Provision

Current Walden students may qualify for a limited grandfathering provision that delays the start of the new loan limits.

To qualify for this grandfathering provision, you must:

  • Enroll and begin courses on or before June 30, 2026.
  • Receive a Direct Loan disbursement on or before June 30, 2026, for your program. This includes Direct Subsidized, Unsubsidized, and PLUS loans.

The grandfathering provision lasts until one of these events occurs:

  • Three academic years pass
  • The remaining normal program completion time passes
  • You stop being continuously enrolled
FUTURE GRADUATE STUDENT

You are starting a graduate or professional program (e.g., master’s degree, doctoral degree, graduate certificate) on or after July 1, 2026.

Federal Student Loans

New Loan Limits

The Graduate PLUS loan program is unavailable for new borrowers beginning July 1, 2026. The Graduate and Professional Direct Unsubsidized loan limits are changing; see the new amounts below.

Type of ProgramAnnual LimitAggregate Limit
Graduate program$20,500$100,000
Professional programs (currently only the PhD in Clinical Psychology)$50,000$200,000

View additional loan limit information.

What can you do? If you need additional funding, consider other financing options.

Reduced Annual Loan Amounts for Students Enrolled Less Than Full Time

If you enroll less than full time over a full academic year, the annual amount of loans you qualify for will be reduced proportionally.  

For example: If you enroll in half the credits required for full-time enrollment, your annual loan amount will be reduced by half. 

What can you do? If you can, enroll full time to avoid any reduction in your loans. If you plan to enroll less than full time and need additional funding, consider other financing options.

STUDENT CURRENTLY BORROWING FEDERAL STUDENT LOANS

New Repayment Options

Once you graduate or stop enrolling, you’ll choose one of the following repayment options for your federal student loans.

Standard Repayment Plan

  • Fixed payments over 10–25 years (based on debt amount)
  • Pays off loans fastest
  • Lowest total interest

Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP)

  • Income-based payments (minimum $10/month)
  • Forgiveness after 30 years (360 payments)
  • Good for variable income or public service careers

Income-Based Repayment (IBR) Plan

  • Only available if you borrowed prior to July 1, 2026, and do not borrow after July 1, 2026
  • Payments capped at 10% of discretionary income
  • Forgiveness after 20 years 

 

BORROWER CURRENTLY IN REPAYMENT
New Repayment Plans

If you are enrolled in any of the following repayment plans:

  • Standard repayment plan
  • Income-Based Repayment (IBR) plan
  • Graduated repayment plan
  • Extended repayment plan

You can remain in the payment plan or change to the new standard plan or the new Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP).

If you are enrolled in these repayment plans:

  • Pay As You Earn (PAYE) plan
  • Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR) plan
  • Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan

You will need to select a new repayment plan. Beginning July 1, 2026, you will only be able to enroll in the new standard plan, the new Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP), or the Income-Based Repayment (IBR) plan.

Contact your loan servicer for specifics on your repayment plan options.

Questions? We’re Here to Help

Future Students: Speak with an Enrollment Specialist

Current Students: Contact Financial Services Support by phone at 1-800-925-3368 or via chat in myWalden.

Questions? We're here to help!

Our Enrollment Specialists will help you explore ways to fund your degree.

Request More Information

Questions? We're here to help!

Our Enrollment Specialists will help you explore ways to fund your degree.

Request More Information

PRIVATE LOANS

Private Loans Through Sallie Mae

We’re committed to helping you clear the path toward your degree. That’s why Walden has partnered with Sallie Mae to offer expanded private loan options.

These loans can help fill the gap when federal aid doesn’t cover all your eligible expenses.

Our Preferred Lender List Disclosure

Loan Features and Protections

Borrow up to 100% of cost of attendance

Sallie Mae loans allow you to borrow up to the school-certified full cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and living expenses.

Flexible repayment options

Choose from three payment options while you’re in school. Once you graduate, you can make interest-only payments for 12 months.

No application or origination fees

There are no fees to process student loans and no prepayment penalty.

No co-signer requirements for eligible students

Sallie Mae does not require a cosigner for U.S. citizens and permanent residents who qualify on their own.

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Understanding Your Investment

Each year, Walden sets a Cost of Attendance (COA), which determines the maximum amount of federal and private financial aid you may be eligible to receive. Knowing the full picture helps you plan ahead and stay focused on your goals.

Your COA may include:

  • Tuition and mandatory fees
  • Books, supplies, and technology
  • Travel and personal expenses
See 2025–2026 Cost of Attendance

Loan Application Process and When to Apply

Getting started with your student loans is a straightforward process, and we’re ready to guide you each step of the way. 

Questions? We’re Here to Help

Future Students: Speak with an Enrollment Specialist

Current Students: Contact Financial Services Support by phone at 1-800-925-3368 or via chat in myWalden.

1. Review your cost of attendance

Take a close look at your Cost of Attendance (COA). This helps you understand how much funding you may need.

2. Understand your student loan options

If you’re a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen, you may be able to receive federal financial aid to help you fund your education.2 Financial aid is available for those who apply and qualify and includes federal loans, grants, and work-study programs.

Federal student loans generally offer:

  • Competitive fixed interest rates
  • Flexible repayment plans
  • Built-in protections (deferment, forbearance, income-driven repayment)
  • No credit check required (except Direct PLUS loans)

Private loans come from banks, credit unions, or online lenders and can help cover costs federal aid doesn’t cover.

  • Fixed or variable interest rates
  • Fewer borrower protections than federal loans
  • Credit requirements (often requiring a co-signer)
3. Gather the information you need to apply

Before applying, collect the documents you need for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid® (FAFSA®) or private lenders. This can help you avoid delays.

For the FAFSA®, you may need:

  • Social Security number
  • Driver’s license
  • Federal tax returns and W-2 forms
  • Records of untaxed income
  • Parent financial information (if you're a dependent student)

For private lenders, you may need:

  • Proof of income
  • Employment verification
  • Co-signer information (if building credit)
4. Apply for federal financial aid with the FAFSA®

If you plan on using financial aid, we recommend starting your FAFSA® as soon as possible. Submitting early gives you the best chance at maximum aid. Applications typically open October 1 each year.

Students starting their program in summer 2026, should complete both the 2025–2026 and the 2026-2027 FAFSA® online at StudentAid.gov. This generally takes about 30 to 45 minutes.

If you’ve already submitted your FAFSA®, check the Walden myFinAid portal to confirm it has been received or review your FAFSA® application to confirm Walden is listed as a recipient.  

Important deadlines to remember:

  • Federal deadline: June 30
  • State deadline (for state-based aid): Varies 

After you submit your FAFSA®, each school you applied to will send you a financial aid offer showing the federal loans and other aid you may qualify for.

Note: If you’re a new Walden student, we encourage you to complete the FAFSA® when you apply for admission. If you’re continuing your studies, you’ll need to submit a renewal FAFSA® each year you’re enrolled.

For best results, complete your renewal FAFSA® when it becomes available in October—or at least eight weeks before your award year renewal date.

5. Apply for private loans, if needed

Consider private loans after exploring all federal options. Private loans typically have fewer protections and may carry higher interest rates.

You should apply for private student loans about 60 to 90 days before your classes begin. This gives you time to compare lenders and rates. 

When comparing private lenders, look at:

  • Interest rates (fixed vs. variable)
  • Co-signer requirements
  • Repayment terms
  • Fees

If you’re approved for a private loan, the funds are sent to your school first. Any remaining amount is then refunded to you for other education-related expenses.

Smart borrowing tip: Only borrow what you need, not the maximum available. This helps keep your future payments manageable.

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Here to Support You

Sorting through your financing options doesn't have to feel overwhelming. Together, we'll find the funding solution that works best for your unique situation and goals.

Questions? We’re Here to Help

Future Students: Speak with an Enrollment Specialist

Current Students: Contact Financial Services Support by phone at 1-800-925-3368 or via chat in myWalden.

Our Preferred Lender List Disclosure

FAQ Section

When do the new federal loan rules start?

Most of the new federal loan changes take effect for enrollment periods starting on or after July 1, 2026. Additional details will be provided once the Department of Education releases final rules.

What are the biggest changes students will notice?
  • Grad PLUS is being phased out for new borrowers starting July 1, 2026.
  • New annual and lifetime caps apply to Direct Loans for graduate, professional, and parent (PLUS) borrowers.
  • Repayment is being simplified to a Tiered Standard Plan and a new Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) for post-2026 loans. 
Will Walden’s tuition or fees change as a result of these loan limit reductions?

Tuition decisions are made independently of federal aid policy changes. Walden continuously evaluates program costs with access, quality, and student outcomes in mind. We believe our programs offer a strong return on investment, especially given our flexible format, wraparound support, and focus on employment outcomes.

How do I know what my current aggregate borrowing total is?

You can view your complete federal loan borrowing history, including your current aggregate total, by logging into your account at StudentAid.gov. Your loan servicer can also provide this information if you need additional assistance interpreting your balance.

Whatever your question is, we’ve got you covered.

Walden’s Enrollment Specialists are trained to help you research, plan, and get started on your academic journey. We can:

  • Find the right program option for you.
  • Explore scholarships and financial aid.
  • Identify prior credits that may transfer.
  • Explain the application process
  • And more!

Please use our International Form if you live outside of the U.S.

  • Step 1: Contact Information
  • Step 2: Academic Interests

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By submitting this form, you consent to Walden University's Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. You also agree we may contact you at the contact information provided regarding our educational programs and services, including for marketing purposes. WU may use automated systems or generative artificial intelligence to reach out via phone, pre-recorded messages, email and/or text. See our Terms of Service for additional details.

DISCLOSURES:

1The information on this page is based on Walden University’s understanding of the changes as of April 2026; information is subject to change as the Department of Education provides updates.

2For Washington state residents seeking information and resources about student loan repayment or seeking to submit a complaint relating to your student loans or student loan servicer, please visit www.wsac.wa.gov/loan-advocacy or contact the Student Loan Advocate at [email protected].

FAFSA® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Education