The Department of Education has posted an unpublished proposed rule to the Federal Register, launching a new round of Negotiated Rulemaking (Neg Reg) for Title IV student aid programs. This will implement the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), addressing student loan reform, Pell Grant eligibility, and institutional accountability.
U.S. Department of Education Proposed Rule – Posted July 24, 2025
Official Federal Register Publication – Expected Publish Date July 25, 2025
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What is Negotiated Rulemaking?
The Department uses negotiated rulemaking (“neg reg”) to shape federal student aid regulations. Committees of stakeholders—including schools, student advocates, and policy experts—debate and draft proposed rules.
- If the committees reach consensus → Their recommendations guide the proposed rule.
- If not → The Department issues its own version.
Two committees will lead this process:
- RISE (Reducing Interest, Simplifying Eligibility) – Focused on student loan interest rates, repayment options, and borrower protections.
- AHEAD (Accountability, Higher Education, and Aid Determinations) – Focused on accountability standards, Pell Grant rules, and broader Title IV updates.
Key Dates:
What You Need to Do NOW if You Want to Be Involved
By Monday, July 28 (12 PM EST):
- Register if you want to speak at the August 7 virtual hearing.
Over the Next 30 Days (by ~August 25):
- Submit written comments during the public comment period, which begins July 25. This is your primary opportunity to influence the rule-making process.
- Submit nominations for RISE and AHEAD committee members.
Start Preparing Now:
- Gather input on loan reforms, Pell Grant changes, and institutional accountability.
- Engage with campus leaders, financial aid staff, and advocacy groups to coordinate comments.
Our Call to Action
This alert is being shared immediately so you can meet the July 28 hearing registration deadline and act during the 30-day public comment window—if you choose to participate.
Participation is optional, but we strongly encourage the community to engage early. This is the best opportunity to shape how OBBBA-driven changes will be implemented.
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