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Regent. Regent Education delivers the functionality, flexibility, and automation institutions need to manage an increasingly complex financial aid environment and support enrollment growth. Cloud-based and built for financial aid, Regent Education makes it easy to automate the financial aid lifecycle across multiple enrollment models.

While data shows that more institutions are offering emergency aid programs, most students do not know that their institution offers emergency aid, according to a new blog from the Hope Center for Student Basic Needs.

This AskRegs Knowledgebase Q&A was updated on July 21, 2026, based on clarifying guidance provided by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) during its June 12, 2026, OBBBA Virtual Office Hours, which changes the answer. No. Under 34 CFR 685.102(b), expected time to credential (ETTC) is defined as: "From July 1, 2026, the expected time for a student to complete a program that is equal to or the lesser of— (i) Three academic years, as defined in 34 CFR 668.3; or (ii) The period determined by calculating the difference between— (A) The program length for the program of study in which the individual is enrolled; and (B) The period of such program of study that such individual has completed as of the date of the determination under paragraph (ii) of this definition." View the full answer to this question to learn more.

Each year, NASFAA presents awards to deserving members of the financial aid profession and higher education community. Let's take a moment to congratulate the winner of the 2026 Allan W. Purdy Distinguished Service Award, which is one of the highest awards that NASFAA bestows and may be awarded either for significant contributions in the furtherance of NASFAA's goals over a sustained period of time, or for a single contribution of such momentous importance as to deserve the award. Congratulations to Heidi Carl, assistant vice provost and executive director of the division of financial aid at Purdue University, and NASFAA’s 2025-26 National Chair. Take a look back at past recipients of the Allan W. Purdy Distinguished Service Award, and see all of the 2026 award recipients.

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