Financial Aid Updates for 2026–2027

Saint Mary’s College is committed to helping students and families understand important financial aid updates for the 2026–2027 year. Some federal changes are already reflected in FAFSA processing, and additional loan and Pell Grant changes take effect beginning July 1, 2026. We will continue updating this page as federal guidance is finalized and as Saint Mary’s completes implementation. 

• Saint Mary's FAFSA Code: It's 001302.
• Don't miss the FAFSA deadlines: New students, aim for March 1. Continuing students, shoot for April 2.
• Max Pell Grant: The most you can get for 2026-27 is $7,395, but your actual amount depends on your FAFSA.
• Fall Payment Due Date: Undergrads need to pay up by August 15, 2026. Good news: payment plans are an option if you need to spread it out.
• Identity Checks: Starting April 26, 2026, don't be surprised if the FAFSA system asks for more identity or fraud checks—it's for security!
• Loan Time Limit (ETC): If you're borrowing under the old rules (before July 1, 2026), there's a limit called "Expected Time to Credential" (ETC).
  • ETC is the shorter of: 3 academic years OR how much time you have left to finish your program.
  • It's based on the full-time length of your program, and attending part-time doesn't extend the limit.
  • Changing your major or dropping out might make you lose this old eligibility and fall under the new, stricter loan limits. Talk to Financial Aid first!
• Part-Time Undergrads: Starting July 1, 2026, if you're not enrolled full-time, you'll probably get less in federal Direct Loans than you would have before. Check with Financial Aid before cutting units!
• Parent PLUS Loans: There's a new aggregate Parent PLUS loan limit of $65,000, plus a limit per child.
• Pell Grant & Scholarships: Starting 2026-27, you could lose your Pell Grant if your nonfederal scholarships and grants cover your entire cost of attendance. Always report your outside scholarships!
• Grad/Professional Loans are Changing: Say goodbye to unlimited Grad PLUS borrowing for most new students starting July 1, 2026.
  • New grad students are generally capped at $20,500/year (up to $100,000 total).
  • New professional students are generally capped at $50,000/year (up to $200,000 total).
  • If you're a current borrower, you might have some "grandfathered" protection, but check with Financial Aid ASAP!
• What to Do Now:
  • File your FAFSA!
  • Check your Saint Mary's email and portal for any document requests or verification notices.
  • Tell Financial Aid immediately if your enrollment changes (especially if you go part-time).
  • Report all your outside scholarships.
  • Grad students: contact Financial Aid early about the loan changes.
  • Stay on track to graduate!
• Got Questions? Call the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships at (925) 631-4370 or email finaid@stmarys-ca.edu.