ED Releases Professional Degree List Following Court Ruling

The Department of Education (ED) released a new list of professional degrees on June 30, 2026, that are eligible for federal student aid. This action follows a court order that compelled the department to establish such a list. The ruling stemmed from a lawsuit filed by the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA), which argued that the ED had failed to provide clear guidance on which specific professional degrees qualified for federal funding under Title IV of the Higher Education Act.

Previously, the eligibility of certain professional degrees for federal aid was determined on a case-by-case basis, leading to confusion and inconsistent application across institutions. The court's decision, handed down in early 2026, mandated that the ED create a definitive and publicly accessible list to ensure transparency and fairness. The new list aims to standardize the process, providing institutions and students with a clear understanding of financial aid eligibility for a range of advanced degree programs.

According to a statement released by the ED, the development of the list involved extensive consultation with higher education stakeholders, including university administrators and program directors. The department emphasized its commitment to supporting students pursuing advanced professional training. The list is expected to impact thousands of students enrolled in programs such as law, medicine, and certain specialized master's degrees, clarifying their access to Pell Grants and federal student loans. The ED has also indicated that the list will be reviewed and updated periodically to reflect changes in the higher education landscape and emerging professional fields.