New loan caps leave graduate students with fewer options Graduate students will face new caps on federal student loans this summer, which may push them to take out additional private loans to cover remaining costs, or to reconsider their higher education and career options. Read > How AI is changing students’ college search An increasing number of students are using AI-generated tools in their college research, but admissions consultants say the tools lack important context when it comes to schools’ affordability, culture, academics, and more. Read > ‘Degree hacking’: A bachelor’s in eight weeks? Some students are earning bachelor’s degrees in mere weeks through online programs that allow them to take as many classes as they choose, leaving educators concerned about the quality of the credentials. Read > More colleges using merit aid to recruit students As U.S. colleges and universities face continued financial challenges, they are increasing their reliance on merit aid to attract wealthier students and boost revenue. Read > How much will that college cost you? Good luck figuring it out > Incoming college freshmen will rack up an average of $43,000 in student loans by graduation, report finds > Colleges find removing small obstacles can help students who dropped out to reenroll > Should graduate students start early to access Grad PLUS Loans? > Enrolled but not protected: Young parenting students face eviction at alarming rates > The quiet revolution: Community colleges are training America’s AI workforce > Why two-year schools are higher education’s fastest-growing sector >