The American Council of Academic Physical Therapy (ACAPT) has expressed deep concern following the final ruling issued through the Department of Education’s RISE negotiated rulemaking process, which addresses federal student loan policy and professional degree designation.

The ruling, which will shape how graduate and professional programs are classified for federal student aid purposes, has significant implications for Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs and the future healthcare workforce.

“We are deeply disappointed by the RISE Committee’s final ruling and the significant impact it may have on the physical therapy workforce and patient access to care. This outcome fails to fully recognize the rigor and clinical demands of Doctor of Physical Therapy education. ACAPT will continue to advocate strongly for our community and engage with policymakers to ensure federal policy aligns with the realities of professional healthcare workforce," said Kimberly Varnado, PT, DPT, DHSc, OCS, FAAOMPT, ACAPT President.

ACAPT represents more than 260 Doctor of Physical Therapy programs across the United States, encompassing the leadership, faculty, clinical partners, and students preparing the next generation of licensed physical therapists. These programs are full-time, multi-year doctoral programs that include extensive classroom instruction and clinical education, often limiting students’ ability to work while enrolled.

According to national workforce data, there are approximately 260,000 licensed physical therapists in the United States, with demand projected to grow significantly in the coming years due to an aging population, increased prevalence of chronic conditions, and expanded use of rehabilitation services. Physical therapists play a critical role in helping patients recover from injury, manage chronic disease, reduce pain, and maintain mobility and independence, which contribute to lowering long-term healthcare costs and reducing reliance on more invasive or expensive interventions.

Under the new federal framework, student loan limits are tied to how programs are classified, making professional designation a critical factor in determining whether students can access sufficient financial support to complete their education. ACAPT is concerned that the current ruling may create unintended financial barriers for students pursuing careers in physical therapy, particularly given the structure of DPT education, which requires extensive clinical training and limits opportunities for outside employment.

These financial barriers have direct implications for workforce supply. When qualified students are unable to access or complete physical therapy education, fewer providers enter the field, resulting in increased strain on healthcare systems and limiting patient access to care, especially in rural and underserved communities where provider shortages are already a concern.

ACAPT emphasized that aligning federal policy with the structure and demands of healthcare education programs is essential to sustaining the pipeline of qualified providers who support mobility, independence, and quality of life for millions of Americans.

ACAPT will continue to engage with federal policymakers, coalition partners, and member institutions to advocate for policies that support students, strengthen the physical therapy workforce, and protect access to high-quality care.

To directly support efforts to address this issue, visit ACAPT's advocacy center and ask your legislator to support current bills.