Thank you for your thoughtful responses and engagement around this critical issue. This week, the ACAPT Board convened an emergency session to address the impending federal regulation that will restrict federal graduate loan eligibility for DPT students. We fully recognize the scale of this unprecedented policy shift and the profound impact it may have on programs, students, clinicians, and the stability of the physical therapy workforce.
Because of these stakes, building a strong and united coalition of all affected partners is essential. With the regulation set to take effect on July 1, we are moving quickly to collect data, coordinate with key collaborators, and prepare for rapid, strategic action.
The ACAPT Board unanimously passed the following motions:
Explore Professional Support Options:
ACAPT will begin soliciting and evaluating proposals from legal counsel, economists, and professional lobbyists to understand the scope, feasibility, and cost of potential support.
Develop a Comprehensive Partnership List:
We will identify and engage relevant organizations across physical therapy, higher education, and the broader health professions to coordinate shared advocacy efforts.
Launch Coordinated Advocacy Efforts:
ACAPT will prepare messaging frameworks, talking points, and calls-to-action to ensure all stakeholders can advocate confidently and consistently.
Increase Communication to Members:
We will provide regular updates on progress, timelines, resources, and opportunities to get involved.
How You Can Get Involved:
Stay Informed:
Share Contacts:
If you have policy, legislative, or institutional connections, please send them to ACAPT to support coalition-building efforts.
Assess Your Program's Exposure:
Review your tuition-setting authority, student aid structures, and the potential implications of losing federal loan eligibility.
Provide Aggregate Data:
Any program-level data on student loans, tuition, educational costs, or financial impacts will help us build a clearer national picture.
Amplify the Message:
Engage your faculty, alumni, clinical partners, employers, and community leaders to raise awareness of the consequences of this regulation.
Be Ready to Act:
Please watch for ACAPT's upcoming advocacy campaigns and be prepared to respond quickly to calls to action.
We are grateful for your partnership and your commitment to protecting the future of physical therapy education. Further updates will be shared soon.