The U.S. Department of Education has announced a significant policy shift that will reclassify architecture, nursing, accounting, social work, occupational therapy, physical therapy, special education, and public health as non-professional degrees effective July 1, 2026. The change fundamentally alters federal student loan eligibility and borrowing limits for students pursuing these graduate-level degrees.
Financial Impact on Students
The reclassification carries substantial financial consequences. Currently, students pursuing degrees in the affected professions can borrow up to $200,000 through federal Grad PLUS loans. Under the new rules effective July 2026, borrowing for these fields will be capped at $20,500 annually—bringing them in line with standard graduate programs rather than professional programs.
According to the Department of Education, the change “has no bearing on whether a program is professional in nature or not” and solely pertains to federal student loan eligibility and limits. However, experts warn that the reduced borrowing caps could significantly impact program accessibility and affordability for aspiring professionals in these fields.
Implications for Architecture
Architecture’s removal from the professional degree list carries particular consequences for the industry. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has already begun preparing policy responses and has indicated there will be a formal comment period in early 2026 to address the exclusion. The organization is exploring options to restore architecture’s recognition as a professional degree for federal aid purposes.
Students enrolled in National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB)-accredited degree programs will face significantly reduced access to federal financing, potentially altering the financial landscape for five-year Bachelor of Architecture and Master of Architecture programs. While the reclassification does not affect licensure requirements or the path to becoming a licensed architect, it may create barriers to entry for prospective students dependent on federal financial aid.
No Impact on Professional Licensure
The Department of Education emphasized that this reclassification applies exclusively to federal financial aid classification and does not affect professional licensing requirements. Architects will continue to require NAAB-accredited degrees or alternative pathways to satisfy state licensure boards. Similarly, nursing licensure and practice rights remain unchanged for professionals in affected fields.
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