The U.S. Department of Education (Department) released new guidance on June 15, 2026, clarifying how institutions must update their Eligibility and Certification Approval Report (ECAR) to comply with the upcoming Earnings Accountability framework and Student Tuition and Transparency System (STATS)
The ECAR outlines a school’s eligibility status for participation in the Title IV federal student aid programs and specifies which educational programs at the school qualify for federal student aid. The Department has observed that many schools are adding educational programs to their ECAR in preparation for earnings accountability reporting, as required by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).
However, in some cases, schools are adding programs that they are not currently required to add under the regulations, including eligible non-Gainful Employment (GE) programs such as degree programs at public and non-profit institutions. The Department requests that schools refrain from making such additions unless specifically required by law or regulation, by their Program Participation Agreement (PPA), or unless the Department specifically requests it.
The Department will use school-certified data from the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS®) enrollment reporting process to identify programs by their unique Classification of Instructional Program (CIP) codes and credential levels to support our implementation of the OBBBA. This proactive strategy is designed to reduce administrative workload for schools. The Department does not expect to require schools to add eligible non-GE programs to their ECARs.
Additional information regarding the process and timeline for program identification will be provided at a later date. Please monitor the FSA Knowledge Center for updates.
Schools can review the guidance here: (GENERAL-26-36) Guidance on ECAR Program Additions and Earnings Accountability Reporting