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Changes the federal student aid formula so a family’s assessed ability to pay is divided by the number of the student’s family members (not counting the parents) who are also enrolled at least half‑time in eligible college or career programs during the same award year. This can reduce each student’s calculated family contribution and increase need‑based aid eligibility when multiple siblings are in school at once. Takes effect upon enactment and applies starting with the 2025–2026 award year and every year after, as defined under the Higher Education Act.
Amend paragraph (3) of section 475(b) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 so that the assessment resulting under paragraph (2) is divided by the number of family members, excluding the student’s parents, who are enrolled or accepted for enrollment at least half-time in a degree, certificate, or other program leading to a recognized educational credential at an institution that is an eligible institution under section 487 during the award period for which assistance under the title is requested.
Defines the denominator for the division as the number of family members (explicitly excluding the student’s parents) who meet the enrollment/acceptance and enrollment-status criteria described.
The amendment made by this Act takes effect on the date the Act is enacted.
The amendment applies with respect to the award year 2025–2026 and each subsequent award year, as determined under the Higher Education Act of 1965.
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Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
Introduced March 31, 2025 by Christopher Henry Smith · Last progress March 31, 2025
Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
Introduced in House