Major federal student loan changes took effect July 1, 2026. New borrowing caps, Pell Grant eligibility shifts, and a new repayment plan are reshaping how students and families pay for college. Here's exactly what changed, who it affects, and what you can do right now.

As of July 1, 2026, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act has permanently changed how much students and families can borrow for college. Graduate PLUS loans are gone for new borrowers, and new lifetime caps are in place. Here is what you need to know — and what you can do right now.

Starting July 1, 2026, qualifying short-term workforce certificate programs are now eligible for Pell Grant funding. Learn which programs qualify, how much aid is available, and what students and families can do right now.

The 2026–27 FAFSA is open with major new changes—including faster account verification, a simplified contributor process, and the Student Aid Index (SAI) replacing the old EFC. Here's everything students and families need to know to complete the FAFSA, maximize their aid, and prepare for college this year.

Meet Danielle Zeff, a Sophie Scholarship recipient with a passion for transforming teen mental health care. Inspired by her own experiences, Danielle dreams of becoming a psychologist and one day creating a residential treatment facility where teens feel heard, supported, and empowered. Her journey reflects the heart of the Sophie Scholarship: turning education, compassion, and personal experience into meaningful change for the next generation. 💜🎓

Meet Quincy Robinson, a Sophie Scholarship recipient turning ambition into impact. With a passion for business, financial literacy, and empowering Black creatives, Quincy hopes to build a future where artists can transform their talents into financial independence and generational wealth. His story reflects what the Sophie Scholarship is all about: education, service, opportunity, and lifting the village as you climb. 💜🎓

The B.E.T.A. Club and the National Honor Society stand as a ray of hope and change in my community. These two clubs have provided me with an opportunity to engage directly with my community by giving back to it. By being part of these associations, I was able to develop as a person and also contribute to improving my people’s living standards hence paving the way for a brighter future for generations to come. Amongst many such programs including food drives, literacy programs

Community service is a quality I have embraced wholeheartedly through my active participation in my high school student council, the Spanish National Honors Society, Beta Club, and various volunteer initiatives. My dedication to helping and shaping my community for the better has helped carve a path of personal growth for me. I love helping others and giving back to my community and the people I share it with. As a member of my high school's student council, I have had the pr

At Sophie's Mart, named after the late Sophie E. Youmans, we believe in the power of education and giving back to our community. That's...

At Sophie's Mart, we believe in the power of education and the importance of giving back to our community. That's why we are proud to...