⚠ Policy change effective July 1, 2026: Grad PLUS loans eliminated for new borrowers. Read the law →
Graduate · $20,500/yr cap

University of Arkansas-Fort SmithGraduate Studies

Annual Funding Gap$10,778$21,556 over 2 years
Federal Cap Unfunded Gap

Total Cost of Attendance: $31,278/yr · Federal Loan Cap: $20,500/yr

Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), which takes effect July 1, 2026, graduate students at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith studying Graduate Studies face a maximum federal Direct Loan cap of $20,500 per year.

With a cost of attendance of $31,278/yr, the gap is $10,778 per year ($21,556 total). This is relatively manageable compared to many programs, particularly for in-state students.

Cost of Attendance Summary

Annual Cost of Attendance$31,278
Federal Loan Cap (Graduate)$20,500
Annual Funding Gap$10,778
Total Funding Gap (2 years)$21,556

Want the full breakdown? Get tuition vs fees vs living, individual fee details, and in-state/out-of-state comparison.

Get your complete cost breakdown

Tuition vs fees vs living, fee-by-fee detail, and in-state/out-of-state comparison for University of Arkansas-Fort Smith Graduate Studies — sent to your inbox.

Free. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

These numbers assume…

  • × Full-time enrollment
  • × No scholarships or grants
  • × No prior federal student debt
  • × Out-of-State residency status
Calculate Your Exact Funding Gap →

Pre-filled with University of Arkansas-Fort Smith data. Takes 30 seconds.

In-State vs. Out-of-State

In-State (Resident)

Total COA$26,976
Annual Gap$6,476

Out-of-State (Non-Resident)

Total COA$31,278
Annual Gap$10,778

Out-of-state students face a $4,302 larger gap per year due to non-resident tuition surcharges.

Recalculate for your residency status →

Your situation is different. Scholarships, residency, prior debt, and part-time enrollment all change your numbers.

Recalculate for University of Arkansas-Fort Smith

Need to Cover This Gap?

University of Arkansas-Fort Smith Graduate Studies students typically need $21,556 in private loans over 2 years to bridge the gap between federal aid and cost of attendance.

LenderEst. Rate RangeLoan Type
Lender A4.99% – 12.78% APRVariable & FixedComing Soon
Lender B5.24% – 14.49% APRFixedComing Soon
Lender C4.49% – 13.99% APRVariable & FixedComing Soon

Rates shown are illustrative ranges and not a guarantee of any specific rate. Actual rates depend on creditworthiness, cosigner status, and loan terms. Check with individual lenders for current rates. Advertising disclosure applies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the federal loan limit for University of Arkansas-Fort Smith Graduate Studies students?

Under the OBBBA (effective July 1, 2026), University of Arkansas-Fort Smith Graduate Studies students can borrow up to $20,500 per year in federal Direct Loans. This is the graduate annual cap. The aggregate lifetime limit is $100,000 for graduate students.

Can I still get a Grad PLUS loan for University of Arkansas-Fort Smith?

No. Starting July 1, 2026, the Grad PLUS loan program is eliminated under the OBBBA. All graduate and professional students are subject to fixed annual borrowing caps ($20,500/year for graduate programs). Students who need additional funding beyond the cap must use private loans, institutional aid, scholarships, or personal funds.

How much does University of Arkansas-Fort Smith Graduate Studies cost per year?

The total cost of attendance for University of Arkansas-Fort Smith Graduate Studies is $31,278 per year. Over the full 2-year program, the total cost is $62,556.

What is the funding gap for University of Arkansas-Fort Smith Graduate Studies?

The annual funding gap is $10,778, calculated as the difference between the total cost of attendance ($31,278) and the federal loan cap ($20,500). Over the full 2-year program, the total gap is $21,556. This is below the national median of $15,563 for Graduate (General) programs.