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AOA continues to advocate for student loan flexibility amidst changes
AOA continues to advocate for student loan flexibility amidst changes
February 15, 2026
AOA action ensures optometry remains classified as a professional degree under federal loan rules.
Tag(s): Advocacy, Federal Advocacy
Key Takeaways
- A proposed federal rule will formally designate optometry as a professional degree—preserving higher federal student loan limits for optometry students.
- The inclusion reflects sustained AOA advocacy to protect access to optometric education and keep the profession within reach for future doctors.
- Optometry’s advocates are needed in Washington, D.C., March 15-17, to advance federal priorities like this with our nation’s health policy leaders as part of AOA on Capitol Hill | AOA Federal Keyperson Summit.