The Department of Education's Exclusion of Architects Under the Federal Definition of "Professionals"
The Department of Education's narrow interpretation of "professional" programs excludes architecture from higher federal loan limits, potentially limiting access to graduate architecture education despite Congress's intent to support workforce-critical fields.
Timeline & advocacy update
January 12, 2026
The Department of Education's interpretation of federal student loan policy could fundamentally change who can afford to become an architect. AIA is fighting to ensure architecture students maintain access to adequate federal loans for graduate education—through both regulatory engagement and legislative action.
Member Briefing on Department of Education Rule
November 24, 2025
The Department of Education's new interpretation could fundamentally change how architecture students finance their education. Find out what's at stake in our comprehensive member briefing.
AIA Statement on Negotiated Rule-Making
November 21, 2025
The AIA is opposing the Department of Education's policy that excludes architecture from professional program designation. Read the full statement.