Trending Higher Education News for the Week

Federal Oversight & Institutional Response

Expansion of Student Visa Terminations by the Trump Administration

International students are facing growing uncertainty as the Trump administration expands visa terminations without clear justification. Students from schools like Harvard and BU have seen their visas revoked suddenly, often without due process. Immigration attorneys warn this sets a troubling precedent, and campus leaders are concerned about its chilling effect on future international enrollment.

Key Takeaway: Colleges must be prepared to support affected students while advocating for fair and transparent visa policies.

College Presidents Navigate Federal Funding Threats

College presidents are increasingly caught between compliance with federal directives and protecting institutional values. Leaders from Macalester and Hollins report political pressure tied to potential funding cuts, especially for perceived non-compliance with executive orders. Maintaining educational focus in this climate is becoming more complex and politically fraught.

Quick Insight: Leadership today demands both advocacy and strategic communication to safeguard campus priorities.

Federal Requirement for K-12 Schools to Certify Non-DEI Compliance

The federal government is now requiring K–12 schools to certify that they are not engaging in discriminatory DEI practices. Schools must respond within 10 days or risk losing Title I funding. Legal experts and education leaders argue the directive may infringe on local control and invite lawsuits, while others question its constitutionality.

Key Action: Higher ed leaders should watch closely—this could signal future compliance demands for colleges as well.

Federal Considerations for Deregulating Financial Aid

The Department of Education is inviting public comment on ways to simplify and streamline financial aid processes. The proposed deregulation aims to reduce administrative burdens for schools and make access easier for students. Institutions are encouraged to weigh in to ensure future rules promote both flexibility and accountability.

Quick Insight: Simplifying aid can boost access—but only if equity and oversight stay central to the reforms.

Supreme Court Upholds Cancellation of Teacher Grants

The Supreme Court has upheld the Trump administration’s cancellation of federal teacher grants, leaving many educators without expected support for professional development. The decision is part of broader moves to reevaluate education spending. Colleges with teacher prep programs may need to rethink how they support future educators.

Key Takeaway: As federal support shifts, institutions must develop alternative pathways to sustain teacher training.

Florida Atlantic University Police Seek Immigration Enforcement Powers

FAU’s police department is seeking authorization to enforce federal immigration law. The proposal has raised concerns about campus climate, particularly among undocumented and international students. Advocates argue it may damage trust and student engagement.

Quick Insight: Aligning campus safety with community trust is essential—especially in times of rising scrutiny.

Could the Department of Education Spark an Accreditation War?

The Trump administration is considering action against SACSCOC, a major accreditor, raising fears of politically motivated interference. Critics warn that weaponizing accreditation could destabilize the independent review system that underpins U.S. higher education.

Key Takeaway: Preserving institutional credibility means protecting the independence of accreditation processes.