Federal student aid policy is set to shift sharply on July 1, with changes to repayment options and forgiveness for borrowers, plus new limits on how much current students can borrow. Low-income learners will gain expanded funding options designed to support career and technical training. A central update is Workforce Pell, which would allow Pell Grants to cover short-term training tied to workforce credentials rather than only traditional degrees. Requirements include completion and near-term job outcomes that providers must demonstrate, with enforcement largely handled by states. The policy rollout puts state agencies and eligible training providers on a rapid timeline, as they interpret program eligibility, verify placement and wage thresholds, and adjust admissions and program design accordingly. Higher education leaders are watching closely for implementation details—especially around program definitions, reporting responsibilities, and how outcomes will be measured for short-cycle programs.