Austin, TX – Students enrolling in IT certificates and tech bootcamps may soon see reduced access to federal student aid as significant changes to federal loan and grant rules take effect in 2026. Many programs in the tech-training sector operate on short timelines or outside accredited college structures, placing them directly in the category most affected by the updated federal regulations.
According to federal guidance, IT programs that are unaccredited, non-credit, or under 150 clock hours cannot receive Title IV financial aid. This includes many popular online bootcamps and rapid upskilling programs. Offerings between 150 and 600 hours must now qualify under the Workforce Pell program, requiring a 70% completion rate, 70% job placement rate, and program costs that do not exceed graduates’ value-added earnings from three years prior.
Beginning July 1, 2026, IT certificate programs are also subject to the federal “low earnings outcomes” test. If a program’s graduates earn the same or less than adults with only a high school diploma—measured four years after completion—the program will lose its access to federal Direct Loans after failing the standard two out of three years.
These changes may significantly impact IT pathways with inconsistent earnings, particularly in entry-level help desk and tech support roles.
