ED releases new interest rates for older variable FFELP Stafford and PLUS loans
On June 3, 2011, ED provided an announcement that outlines the variable interest rates for older FFELP Stafford and PLUS loans. Below is a summary of the current variable interest rates and those that will be effective beginning July 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012.

Total and permanent disability (TPD) discharge updates
On June 6, 2011, ED provided an electronic announcement indicating that it has fully transitioned TPD discharge servicing to Nelnet. The TPD servicing includes processes and services for all TPD discharge assignments and referrals for veterans and non-veterans on behalf of ED.

Satisfactory academic progress (SAP): reviews for students in clock-hour programs
In an electronic announcement published on June 6, 2011, ED provided guidance regarding SAP reviews for students in clock-hour programs. This information will be helpful for some schools as they finalize implementation of the new SAP requirements effective July 1, 2011.

Gainful Employment final rule published in Federal Register
On June 2, 2011, ED released a prepublication final rule document on the gainful employment (GE) program debt measures. The published version of the final rule in now available in the Federal Register dated June 13, 2011. These new regulations on program metrics for student debt levels and repayment success become effective on July 1, 2012.

Closed school corner
This issue of Shoptalk provides a list of newly reported school closures and corrections from the Postsecondary Educational Participants System (PEPS) and from the June 2011 Closed School Monthly Report supplied by ED. Schools listed are those with which TG has done business or to which TG has otherwise provided services.

TG issues new publication examining how top-performing community colleges succeed
TG has released a new publication that examines high-performing community colleges in Texas and the practices these schools have in common that lead to success.

Simulcast sessions announced for the 2011 TG Student Success Symposium for Community Colleges
TG will simulcast two of the day's sessions from its Student Success Symposium for Community Colleges, allowing remote viewers to view, and participate in, the sessions. Like their counterparts at the TG campus, virtual attendees can expect to take away an understanding of the importance of accountability, the use of data to drive decisions, and practical steps for implementing comprehensive enrollment management planning and default management.

Four ways to get the most from attending conferences
As summer arrives, many financial aid professionals are preparing for their attendance at the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) Annual Conference, to be held this year from July 17-20 in Boston. And, before you know it, the fall conference season will be underway. In this article, Shoptalk focuses on tips to help you maximize your time at conference events.