PRINT DISCLAIMER: Official version of this document is accessible in the online policy library at https://policyoffice.ku.edu/. Printed copies may not reflect the most recent updates.
DOCUMENT TYPE:
Policy
PURPOSE:
To describe the circumstances where the University may limit or refuse to certify a student’s direct federal student loans.
APPLIES TO:
All Direct Loan borrowers
CAMPUS:
Lawrence, Edwards, Leavenworth, Juniper Gardens, Parsons, Pittsburg, Salina (KUL), Topeka, Wichita (KUL), Yoder, Medical Center (KUMC), Salina (KUMC), Wichita (KUMC)
POLICY STATEMENT:
The University’s Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships, in accordance with Section 479A(c) of the Higher Education Act, as amended (HEA), and the Direct Loan Program regulations at 34 CFR 685.301(a)(8), reserves the right to, on a case-by-case basis, reduce a student’s determination of need for or refuse certification of a student’s federal Direct Subsidized, Direct Unsubsidized, or Direct PLUS Loan upon a review of a student's situation, including overall student loan debt. This review could include, but is not limited to, consideration of aggregate loan debt, enrollment history, borrowing history, and other factors as appropriate. Following this review, the University may deny any Direct Subsidized, Direct Unsubsidized, or Direct PLUS Loan borrowing or limit borrowing for direct costs to include tuition, fees and course materials.
Students have the right to appeal a decision by the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships to limit or refuse certification of borrowing. All appeals should be submitted in writing to the respective individual listed in the Contact section below and should include the following:
- Name and student ID;
- Current academic program;
- Remaining degree requirements and the anticipated cost to complete degree;
- Anticipated graduation date;
- A projection of future employment and debt management plans, and rationale for increasing student loan debt; and
- Reasons for disagreement with the decision.
Documentation supporting a determination by the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships to limit or refuse to certify a federal student loan is retained in the student’s file. Such determinations comply with the University’s Nondiscrimination, Harassment, and Equal Opportunity policy.
CONTACT:
Lawrence Campus and all reporting units:
Zachary Puckett
Assistant Director
Financial Aid & Scholarships
785-864-4700
financialaid@ku.edu
KU Medical Center and all reporting units:
Scott Sponholtz
Director
Student Financial Aid Office
913-588-5170
financialaid@kumc.edu
RESPONSIBLE UNIT:
Financial Aid & Scholarships
APPROVED BY:
Chancellor
APPROVAL DATE:
2026-01-20
EFFECTIVE DATE:
2026-01-20
REVIEW CYCLE:
1 year
CHANGE HISTORY:
01/20/2026: New policy published in the Policy Library.
TITLE:
Limiting Direct Loan Borrowing