Midwestern University Announces Tuition Freeze for 2026–27 Academic Year to Support Students, Strengthen Future Health Care Workforce

Midwestern University will freeze tuition for the 2026–27 academic year across all programs, including the university’s dental medical schools—the College of Dental Medicine-Illinois and the College of Dental Medicine-Arizona.

The decision, approved by the Board of Trustees as part of the Fiscal Year 2027 budget (July 1, 2026–June 30, 2027), reflects the university’s commitment to supporting students pursuing health care careers.

The decision comes at a pivotal time for graduate and professional health care students nationwide. Beginning July 1, 2026, federal lending changes under the One Big Beautiful Bill will introduce annual and lifetime borrowing caps for graduate and professional students, potentially creating funding gaps for those pursuing advanced health care degrees.

By holding tuition steady, Midwestern University is taking proactive steps to sustain the pipeline of future dentists in addition to physicians, pharmacists, physical therapists, optometrists and other health care professionals.

"At Midwestern University, we believe institutions must lead during times of economic uncertainty,” said Joshua Baker, O.D., M.S., President and CEO of Midwestern University. “By freezing tuition amidst a changing federal lending landscape, we are actively protecting the accessibility of graduate health care education. Our priority remains clear: ensure that talented, caring students are able to pursue careers in health care and can graduate prepared to serve their communities."

The new federal lifetime borrowing caps will limit how much graduate and professional health care students can access through federal loans over the course of their education. For many students, particularly those in multi-year doctoral programs, the changes will likely require new financial planning strategies.

Midwestern University is ready to support students through the Midwestern University (MWU) Loan, a unique student financing option designed to bridge gaps as federal lending rules change. With low fixed interest rates, no origination fees, and program-aligned borrowing limits, the MWU Loan offers a solution to financing gaps many students will face. Complementing this support, the university’s free Sensible Strategies financial wellness program offers one-on-one guidance and practical tools to help students borrow wisely and plan confidently for their futures in health care.

Together, these efforts underscore Midwestern University’s commitment to keeping healthcare education accessible and focused on preparing the next generation of providers to serve their communities.

Courtesy of Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine-Illinois