Federal student aid options will decrease under H.R. 1, which sets stricter eligibility requirements and reduces available grants and loans. As a result, families will encounter larger financial gaps with higher education expenses. This shift increases demand for alternative financing solutions, presenting a significant opportunity for credit unions to help. Credit unions need to provide accessible education financing now or risk losing families to other, less member-focused lenders. Ryan Giffin and Vicki Erickson will discuss how providing education financing allows credit unions to engage this key demographic early, build lasting borrowing relationships, and secure future growth.

What you'll learn

• Grasp major upcoming changes to Federal Aid under H.R. 1, including tougher eligibility and reduced grants/loans.
• Recognize the increasing financial gap in higher education and the growing need for alternative financing options.
• Distinguish federal versus private education financing, going beyond common headlines.
• Identify how credit unions provide unique, accessible education financing for members to address reduced federal aid.
• Recognize the risk of competitors attracting members with education financing solutions if credit unions do not act quickly.
• Understand the long-term benefits for credit unions in supporting members’ education, fostering loyalty, and deepening community engagement.