Federal loan limits to reduce for less than full-time enrollment
August 7, 2026
New federal regulations are changing how federal loans amounts are determined.
When students accept their loans, the amount represents the maximum loan amount available for the semester. Under the changes, students who are enrolled in 11 or fewer credit hours (less than full-time) should expect their loan amounts to be reduced, based on credit hours enrolled.
The required reductions will be calculated and applied after the last day to drop/add courses.
Students must be enrolled in at least 6 credit hours to be eligible for Federal Loans. Enrolling in more eligible credit hours may increase loan amounts.
The college highly recommends that all students, including those whose loans may be reduced, complete the SF General Scholarship Application.
How is the reduction calculated?
Accepted loan awards represent the maximum loan amount available for the semester. The table shows how loan amounts will be adjusted by credit hours taken each semester.
| Eligible Credit Hours per Semester | Percentage of Maximum Loan Amount |
| 12+ | 100% (no reduction) |
| 11 | 92% |
| 10 | 83% |
| 9 | 75% |
| 8 | 67% |
| 7 | 58% |
| 6 | 50% |
| Less than 6 | No eligible for Federal Loans |
Examples
| Accepted Loan Amount | Enrolled Eligible Credits | Loan Reduced To |
| $1,500 | 9 | $1,125 |
| $1,500 | 7 | $870 |
| $1,500 | 6 | $750 |
