This week, college affordability was the main topic of discussion as states, universities, and federal agencies made changes that could change how students pay for school or what happens if they fall behind. This Week In College And Money News
These changes have real effects on families who are planning for the next few years. For example, there are new tuition-free pathways, more dual-enrollment options, and the return of aggressive student loan collections and forgiveness deadlines.
Here are the most important stories that are affecting higher education and student finances this week, January 16, 2026. This Week In College And Money News
Headlines at a Glance
- A major Texas university launches a tuition-free program for middle-income families.
- Connecticut expands dual enrollment and career pathways to cut college costs earlier.
- Federal wage garnishment for defaulted student loans returns in 2026.
- Some student loan borrowers face key deadlines to protect eligibility for student loan forgiveness.
1. University of North Texas Launches Tuition-Free Program
The University of North Texas announced a new initiative that will cover full tuition and mandatory fees for incoming freshmen from Texas families earning $100,000 or less, starting in fall 2026. The programme applies to first-time students who graduate from a Texas high school and either qualify for Pell Grants or rank in the top quarter of their graduating class. This Week In College And Money News
Eligible students are automatically considered once they are admitted and complete the FAFSA by the school’s deadline. This adds to the growing list of tuition-free colleges.
➡️ Impact: Tuition-free guarantees are expanding beyond low-income thresholds. For middle-income families squeezed by rising costs but ineligible for large financial aid packages, programs like this can significantly reduce borrowing. This Week In College And Money News
2. Connecticut Expands Dual Enrollment and Career Pathway Programs
Connecticut officials unveiled a statewide effort to expand dual enrollment, early college credit, and career-connected learning for high school students. The initiative aims to let more students graduate with college credits already completed or credentials aligned with local workforce needs. This Week In College And Money News
State leaders say the focus is on reducing time to degree while giving students earlier exposure to post-secondary options — whether college, training, or a combination of both.
➡️ Impact: Dual enrollment remains one of the most effective tools for lowering total college costs. Every credit earned in high school is one less paid for later, often at much higher tuition rates. This Week In College And Money News
3. Wage Garnishment for Defaulted Student Loans Returns in 2026
Federal student loan collections have officially resumed. The U.S. Department of Education will resume wage garnishment for borrowers in default—defined as loans that are more than 270 days past due. This Week In College And Money News
Under federal law, up to 15% of disposable wages can be withheld after a required notice period. Borrowers can avoid garnishment by entering student loan rehabilitation, consolidating their loans, or enrolling in an income-driven repayment plan before garnishment begins.
Impact: Garnishment reduces take-home pay immediately and can compound financial stress. Borrowers in default still have options, but the window to act is shrinking. This Week In College And Money News
4. Key Deadlines Loom for Student Loan Forgiveness Eligibility
Some borrowers pursuing student loan forgiveness under income-driven repayment plans face important deadlines in 2026, and they must complete certain actions by March to preserve eligibility or avoid losing progress. This Week In College And Money News
If you have Parent PLUS Loans, here is the timeline you need to take actions if you want to preserve access to loan forgiveness programmes.
Impact: Forgiveness isn’t automatic. Staying eligible often requires timely paperwork, plan changes, or consolidation — especially as federal rules continue to shift. This Week In College And Money News