By Sean Robins, NACAC’s director of advocacy

Welcome to this issue of the Advocacy Update on NACAC’s Admitted blog. The longest federal government shutdown in U.S. history has finally come to a close after 43 days, ending a period marked by uncertainty, disruption, and strain across the nation. As institutions, students, and college admission counselors begin to navigate the uneven path toward recovery, federal agencies are reopening, policy debates are resuming, and courts and Congress are shaping the landscape in real time. This moment underscores just how closely access to education is tied to the stability and functionality of government — and why continued vigilance, advocacy, and clear-eyed policy engagement remain essential to protecting students and the professionals who support them.

Policy & Legislative Updates 

The higher education sector continues to feel the strain of the record 43-day federal shutdown, with disruptions touching nearly every corner of campus operations and student life. Institutions are reporting significant delays in research activity and grant spending, with universities like North Carolina State freezing federal grant expenditures as interruptions surpass $25 million per month. Students and families are facing widening hardship as partial cuts to SNAP benefits deepen food insecurity for more than one million college students, while military-affiliated students encounter delays in tuition assistance and GI Bill payments. Adjunct faculty are also seeing health care costs rise as federal subsidies stall. Across higher education, many describe this moment as one of “cumulative exhaustion.”

Several court decisions offered temporary relief for families while underscoring the instability surrounding federal programs during the shutdown. A federal judge ordered the administration to restore full SNAP benefits for the 42 million people who rely on the program, finding that officials deliberately withheld available funds for political reasons. The First Circuit then blocked an additional attempt to halt benefits, following an earlier administrative stay issued by Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, who temporarily paused lower court orders to allow for further review. The Supreme Court extended that stay through the end of Nov. 13. Now that the bipartisan agreement to reopen the government includes the full Fiscal Year 2026 SNAP budget, the status of the lawsuit is uncertain; it may ultimately be dismissed as moot because SNAP recipients will, eventually, receive their missing November benefits.

Congress, meanwhile, has begun to reengage issues beyond the shutdown. Following passage of OBBBA, lawmakers are turning their attention to transparency in college cost information. At a Senate HELP Committee hearing, members from both parties emphasized the need for program-level clarity on price and outcomes. While Republicans framed transparency as central to understanding return on investment, Democratic witnesses highlighted the broader affordability crisis — driven by rising living expenses — that transparency alone cannot solve. Proposals ranged from improving the College Scorecard to standardizing financial aid offers and advancing the bipartisan College Transparency Act.

As funding negotiations slowly progressed, the Senate advanced a bipartisan agreement to end the shutdown. The package will provide full-year appropriations for the Departments of Veterans Affairs and Agriculture and the legislative branch while funding all other agencies under a continuing resolution through Jan. 30. The deal guarantees back pay for more than one million federal employees, temporarily blocks new layoffs, and restores thousands of positions eliminated during the shutdown. Although most Democrats opposed the measure for failing to extend expiring Affordable Care Act premium subsidies — the issue central to the standoff — enough supported the agreement for it to move forward. The legislation passed in the Senate 60-40 on Nov. 10 and passed in the House of Representatives 222-209 on Nov. 12; the president signed the bill into law following passage in the House.

Courts also weighed in on the administration’s internal operations. A federal judge ordered the Education Department to remove partisan language inserted into furloughed employees’ out-of-office messages, finding that the administration had “commandeered” employee email accounts to advance political messaging during the shutdown. The ruling permanently bars the department from inserting partisan content into automated emails and reinforces the longstanding principle of civil-service neutrality.

Beyond the shutdown, universities continue to navigate shifting administrative policies. Cornell University reached a $60 million agreement with the administration that restores more than $1 billion in frozen federal research dollars while explicitly preserving the institution’s autonomy. The settlement requires only limited federal reporting, making Cornell the fifth institution to strike such a deal as the administration continues pursuing investigations and policy changes aimed at reshaping higher education and dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion structures.

Even as universities respond to these federal actions, states are beginning to consider their own roles in safeguarding civil rights. With the Education Department’s Office for Civil Rights significantly weakened through layoffs, regional office closures, and a narrowed enforcement scope, some states — such as Pennsylvania — are weighing the creation of state-level civil rights offices to fill the gap. Advocates caution that a state-by-state approach risks creating uneven protections for students nationwide.

Enrollment trends continue to evolve amid this uncertainty. New data from the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center show overall enrollment up 2 percent this fall, with community colleges leading growth at 4 percent and the largest increases occurring among students pursuing short-term credentials and associate degrees. Graduate enrollment held flat. The data also highlight a growing racial-reporting gap, with a 45 percent rise since 2023 in students not disclosing their race — complicating efforts to monitor demographic shifts.

At the same time, the Education Department is redirecting nearly all $171 million in Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE) funding from congressionally intended student success and access programs toward administrative priorities such as artificial intelligence, civil discourse, accreditation reform, and short-term workforce training. Stakeholders warn that this shift sidesteps legislative intent, puts pressure on institutions serving rural, veteran, and low-income students, and may be difficult to implement given staff shortages and tight timelines.

In a notable departure from earlier policy positions, Trump recently defended the presence of international students in U.S. higher education, calling them “good” for America’s colleges and cautioning that enrollment cuts would devastate institutions financially — especially HBCUs. The comments contrast sharply with prior administrative actions that restricted visas and imposed heightened requirements for international students, highlighting tension between political messaging and the economic realities facing colleges.

With the shutdown now officially over following House passage of a short-term funding bill, agencies are moving to resume operations, though major policy disputes remain unresolved. The agreement restores pay for federal workers and allows institutions to continue accessing core student aid services, but uncertainty persists around whether the Education Department will comply with provisions reversing recent layoffs. Many expect additional oversight challenges in the weeks ahead.

Meanwhile, legal challenges continue in states seeking to end in-state tuition benefits for undocumented students. Courts in Texas and Oklahoma have already struck down tuition-equity policies, tripling costs for some students with little warning. Similar efforts are underway in Kentucky, Illinois, and Minnesota. Civil rights advocates, including the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF), are pushing to reopen these cases, arguing that affected students were denied due process. NACAC joined an amicus brief led by the Presidents’ Alliance urging the Fifth Circuit to ensure students have the opportunity to be heard.

Finally, the administration has released a revised proposal to expand IPEDS admissions reporting. The updated draft narrows the scope to four-year institutions with selective admissions and requires six years of disaggregated application and admissions data, including test scores, GPA, Pell eligibility, income, and parental education levels. Community colleges and open-enrollment institutions awarding aid solely based on need are no longer included. While this reduces the burden on open-access institutions, significant concerns remain. NACAC’s previous public comment called for greater clarity, stronger privacy protections, and safeguards against misuse of admissions data. The revised proposal is now open for a 30-day public comment period.

NACAC Advocacy 

This week, NACAC continued to elevate the concerns of our members and the students they serve as federal actions and policy shifts create new challenges across the education landscape. In meetings with congressional staff, I underscored the urgent need to protect equitable pathways to postsecondary education — particularly as institutions navigate the aftermath of the shutdown, ongoing legal battles, and emerging federal proposals that could reshape college access.

These conversations focused on the concrete impacts that recent federal actions are having on students, college admission counselors, and institutions, including rising instability in student aid programs and the growing strain on low-income and first-generation students. I emphasized the foundational principle that public education is a public good, and that federal policy must reinforce — rather than erode — the systems that allow individuals to move toward opportunity.

NACAC also discussed introducing legislation aimed at strengthening college access, supporting students and families through clear admission processes and policies, and reinforcing pathways that help individuals enter and remain in mission-driven careers through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Across each meeting, our message was consistent: students deserve an accessible, stable, and equitable system, and NACAC will continue to push for federal policies that uphold those values.

Ways You Can Take Action 

We are continuously updating our Take Action page with opportunities to make your voice heard. If you have not already, I encourage you to advocate on the urgent issues below. You can also view all active advocacy campaigns in the yellow column of the Take Action page. 

• Tell Congress: Protect FSEOG and Work-Study Funding
• Tell Congress: Save TRIO and Support College Access
• Tell Congress: Prioritize Visa Appointments for International Students and Scholars 
• Urge Congress to Protect Postsecondary Pathways 
• Tell Congress: International Students are Essential to America’s Safety, Economy, and Global Strength
• Tell Congress to Not Abandon Our National Commitment to Education
• Urge Congress to Protect Disabled Students 
• Don’t Flunk the Future Advocacy Toolkit 

As federal operations resume and policymakers turn toward the work ahead, this moment calls for both persistence and a clear commitment to progress. The past 43 days underscored how quickly uncertainty can ripple through classrooms, campuses, and communities — but they also revealed the resilience of the professionals who remain steadfast in their support of students. NACAC will continue to advocate for policies that strengthen pathways to opportunity and reinforce the systems that allow students to move forward with confidence, clarity, and stability.

In the spirit of that work, I am reminded of the words of educator and civil rights advocate Marian Wright Edelman: “Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it.”

As we look ahead, we carry that charge with us — advancing progress step by step, and persevering on behalf of the students and counselors who depend on it.

By Sean Robins, NACAC’s director of advocacy

Welcome to this issue of the Advocacy Update on NACAC’s Admitted blog. With the federal shutdown now the longest in U.S. history, its impact on education is becoming increasingly visible — from disruptions in food assistance to weakened civil rights protections. Each development underscores the need for steadfast advocacy to ensure students remain at the center of policy decisions. NACAC continues to monitor these challenges closely and advocate for equitable access, institutional integrity, and support for those most affected.

Policy & Legislative Updates 

As the federal government shutdown stretches into its second month, schools and families are facing mounting challenges. SNAP funding lapsed on Nov. 1, nearly 40 percent of recipients are children and at risk of losing access to critical food support. While USDA has temporarily extended school meal funding, delays in reimbursements and potential disruptions to Head Start programs are raising serious concerns about rising food insecurity and instability for students and families. Efforts by states, schools, and organizations like the Hope Center for Student Basic Needs are helping to fill gaps, but millions remain vulnerable, especially as partial SNAP payments have only just begun and are insufficient to meet basic needs.

The shutdown itself is now the longest in U.S. history, now exceeding 38 days, with no immediate end in sight. Congressional negotiations have made only slow progress. The House remains out of session, and Senate Republicans continue to resist Trump’s push to eliminate the filibuster to force passage of a stopgap funding bill. While bipartisan talks are ongoing, lawmakers are grappling with disagreements over full-year appropriations, temporary funding measures, and expiring health care subsidies under the Affordable Care Act. The economic and human toll is escalating, with costs already surpassing $7 billion in lost GDP and projected to reach $14 billion if the impasse continues past eight weeks. At the same time, previously promised back pay for furloughed federal workers has been rescinded, adding to economic uncertainty for hundreds of thousands of employees.

Amid these disruptions, students and families face additional challenges. Mixed-status families are increasingly hesitant to complete the FAFSA due to fears that personal information could be used for immigration enforcement, despite legal protections. The National College Attainment Network (NCAN) has issued new guidance addressing concerns from mixed-status families completing the FAFSA.

The Trump administration’s proposed rule barring employees of organizations supporting migrants or trans youth from Public Service Loan Forgiveness has sparked legal action, with advocates arguing that it politicizes a program intended to reward public service and may violate the First Amendment.

The Department of Education under Secretary Linda McMahon has also seen dramatic reductions in staff, programs, and oversight functions. While student aid remains largely intact, civil rights enforcement has been severely weakened. The Office for Civil Rights has been gutted, leaving students — particularly those facing racial harassment or disability discrimination — without federal recourse. Career staff continue to work to preserve core departmental functions, but the agency’s capacity to ensure accountability and equity has been markedly diminished.

Meanwhile, the administration’s decision to end longstanding initiatives like the National Blue Ribbon Schools program underscores a broader effort to shift responsibility to states, even as at least 18 states step in with their own recognition programs.

Despite these challenges, new research from the Brookings Institution reinforces that higher education remains a strong long-term investment, with degree holders earning substantially more than non-degree peers. However, rising debt burdens and gaps in affordability highlight the urgent need for policy action to support student persistence, equitable access, and smarter loan options.

Finally, political dynamics are shifting. Following Democratic wins in Virginia and New Jersey, party strategists are assessing opportunities in competitive and traditionally Republican states ahead of the 2026 mid-term elections, with attention on Senate and House races in key battlegrounds.

NACAC Advocacy 

This week, NACAC continued its work to advance equitable access and uphold student protections across federal and state policy. NACAC joined the American Council on Education (ACE) and other higher education associations in urging the Department of Veterans Affairs to withdraw its proposed rule redefining “distance learning” and “independent study.” The coalition letter highlights concerns that the proposed definitions conflict with those used by the Department of Education and could expand GI Bill eligibility to unaccredited, non-degree online programs — undermining safeguards that ensure program quality and protect both students and taxpayer investments. The associations called on the VA to collaborate with Congress and the higher education community to modernize these definitions responsibly.

NACAC also joined the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration and 36 other organizations in filing an amicus brief before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit in support of the Texas tuition equity law. The brief emphasizes that allowing all eligible students — regardless of immigration status — to pay in-state tuition and access state aid strengthens institutions, local economies, and state workforce needs. NACAC’s participation reaffirms the association’s commitment to expanding opportunity through higher education and ensuring that college remains a pathway to upward mobility for all students.

Ways You Can Take Action 

We are continuously updating our Take Action page with opportunities to make your voice heard. If you have not already, I encourage you to advocate on the urgent issues below. You can also view all active advocacy campaigns in the yellow column of the Take Action page. 

• Tell Congress: Protect FSEOG and Work-Study Funding
• Tell Congress: Save TRIO and Support College Access
• Tell Congress: Prioritize Visa Appointments for International Students and Scholars 
• Urge Congress to Protect Postsecondary Pathways 
• Tell Congress: International Students are Essential to America’s Safety, Economy, and Global Strength
• Tell Congress to Not Abandon Our National Commitment to Education
• Urge Congress to Protect Disabled Students 
• Don’t Flunk the Future Advocacy Toolkit 

As the shutdown’s effects deepen and new policy debates emerge, NACAC remains committed to advancing fairness, integrity, and opportunity across higher education. Whether defending veterans’ benefits or championing tuition equity, our advocacy continues to center the students and communities most impacted by shifting federal priorities.

In times like these, collaboration and compassion become even more essential. As Coretta Scott King reminded us, “The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.”

Together, through thoughtful advocacy and shared purpose, we can ensure that compassion continues to shape the policies guiding access and opportunity for all students.

By Sean Robins, NACAC’s director of advocacy

Welcome to this issue of the Advocacy Update on NACAC’s Admitted blog. As the federal shutdown stretches into its fifth week, the impact across education, childcare, and public service continues to grow. From canceled TRIO grants and delayed Head Start funding to deepening uncertainty around college access and affordability, these disruptions underscore the importance of informed, engaged advocacy — especially as national policy decisions increasingly shape the future of students and institutions alike.

As Election Day approaches on Tuesday, Nov. 4, we encourage everyone to make a plan to vote and to review the nonpartisan resources shared during our recent webinar. Participating in elections — local, state, and national — is one of the most meaningful ways to support our communities and the students we serve. Whether you vote early, by mail, or in person on Election Day, please take time to ensure your voice is heard. Every vote helps shape the future of education and advances our shared mission to expand access and opportunity for all students.

Policy & Legislative Updates 

The federal government shutdown has entered its fifth week, with escalating consequences across education, child care, and public service. In the Senate, efforts to ensure federal workers are paid have stalled, as both Republican and Democratic proposals failed to advance. While Senators Ron Johnson (R-WI) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) have begun bipartisan talks, the administration continued to pay military personnel under uncertain authority and has suggested that back pay for furloughed workers may not be required — contradicting existing law. The ongoing stalemate has already cost the economy at least $7 billion in lost productivity, according to the Congressional Budget Office, with losses potentially reaching $14 billion if the shutdown continues through November.

The shutdown’s ripple effects are spreading across schools and colleges. K–12 leaders are bracing for steep cuts to federal support, with many districts preparing budgets that assume the elimination of Titles II, III, and IV-A next year. More than three-quarters of school and district leaders expect funding to decline, and some have already reduced staff or delayed academic initiatives. The uncertainty follows the administration’s summer freeze on billions in federal education dollars and proposals to eliminate key K–12 programs.

In higher education, the Trump administration’s anti-DEI campaign has led to the cancellation of 120 TRIO programs — cutting off more than 43,000 low-income, first-generation, and veteran students from vital college access resources such as tutoring and FAFSA support. The move marks a significant departure from decades of bipartisan commitment to TRIO’s mission. Meanwhile, a new Quinnipiac poll shows that nearly 60 percent of Americans oppose the administration’s plan to expand federal control over higher education through its proposed “compact,” underscoring broad public resistance to political interference in colleges and universities.

The administration’s actions are also fueling economic insecurity for families. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reversed earlier guidance, announcing it lacks authority to sustain the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during the shutdown — putting food benefits for more than 42 million Americans at risk. Food banks nationwide are preparing for increased demand, and bipartisan groups of lawmakers have urged USDA to use all available funds to prevent a lapse in benefits.

Lawmakers from both parties are urging USDA to reconsider. More than 200 House Democrats and 46 Senate Democrats sent letters calling on Secretary Brooke Rollins to use the contingency fund and transfer authority to prevent a lapse in benefits. Senate Appropriations Chair Susan Collins (R-Maine) joined them in a separate letter, urging USDA to “consider all available options” to sustain benefits, including partial payments or fund transfers.

Education and childcare programs face similar strain. Starting Nov. 1, more than 65,000 children in 134 Head Start centers are expected to lose funding, while districts reliant on Impact Aid will miss payments that offset lost tax revenue. Twenty-five states have now sued USDA over its SNAP decision, warning of widespread harm to students and families.

Courts have begun to intervene as well. A federal judge has indefinitely blocked the Trump administration’s attempt to lay off thousands of federal workers during the shutdown, calling the move unlawful and retaliatory. Another judge reinstated nearly $1 billion in Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) mental health grants that the Education Department had abruptly discontinued, ruling the decision “arbitrary and capricious.”

Within higher education policy, negotiations continue over graduate loan limits under OBBBA. The department has proposed a narrow set of professional programs eligible for higher loan caps, raising concerns that students in high-need fields like mental and physical health could lose access to necessary financing.

Meanwhile, new details have emerged about the administration’s broader efforts to reshape higher education through punitive enforcement. Newly released documents reveal sweeping demands placed on UCLA — including a $1.2 billion fine, restrictions on gender-affirming care and trans athletes, limits on foreign student enrollment, and bans on overnight protests. Faculty leaders have condemned the proposal as “ideological extortion,” warning that it threatens academic freedom, institutional autonomy, and global competitiveness.

Across the country, institutions are grappling with the implications of these federal actions. College leaders remain uncertain about the administration’s Compact for Academic Excellence, with some voicing opposition but others hesitating to formally reject it amid confusion over potential funding consequences. As political pressure mounts, Texas Christian University announced plans to dissolve its race and gender studies departments, citing low enrollment. Faculty members say the move reflects growing political pressure on diversity, equity, and inclusion-related programs and signals a retreat from decades of progress toward equity and inclusion.

Even as the federal climate grows more restrictive, new research highlights alternative paths to equity. A report from the Institute for Higher Education Policy (IHEP) examines California’s nearly three decades of experience expanding access under a race-neutral framework. After the state’s 1996 ban on affirmative action, California invested in K–12 to higher education pathways, holistic admissions, and integrated data systems linking education and workforce sectors. While equity gaps persist, recent gains in enrollment show how race-neutral strategies — if paired with intentional investment — can expand opportunity in a post-SFFA landscape.

In Congress, a small group of Hispanic Republican lawmakers are breaking ranks with the administration’s anti-DEI agenda, urging the restoration of $350 million in funding for Hispanic-Serving Institutions. Their push underscores the tension between opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion and recognition of the programs that expand opportunity for diverse student populations.

The administration has also finalized a rule restricting eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, barring employees of organizations deemed to have a “substantial illegal purpose.” Critics warn the policy could be used to target nonprofits that disagree with the administration’s views, raising significant First Amendment concerns.

With negotiations stalled, education funding uncertain, and key social supports at risk, the shutdown continues to deepen its impact on students, families, and federal workers alike — threatening both short-term stability and long-term recovery.

NACAC Advocacy 

This week, NACAC continued its work to defend college access and opportunity through both federal engagement and member mobilization. NACAC joined higher education partners in opposing a proposed Department of Homeland Security rule that would prioritize H-1B visa petitions based on wage levels—a change that would severely limit post-graduation work opportunities for international students. The proposed rule threatens to deter international enrollment, restrict pathways for early-career professionals educated in the U.S., and weaken the diversity and competitiveness of U.S. campuses and the broader economy.

At the same time, NACAC shared an action alert as part of the Student Aid Alliance, urging members to contact Congress and oppose proposed cuts to critical student aid programs. The House has advanced a funding bill that would eliminate the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) and reduce Federal Work-Study (FWS) by nearly 40 percent — cuts that would disproportionately harm low-income students and undermine college affordability nationwide. NACAC continues to advocate for preserving these essential investments that make higher education accessible for millions of students each year.

Ways You Can Take Action 

We are continuously updating our Take Action page with opportunities to make your voice heard. If you have not already, I encourage you to advocate on the urgent issues below. You can also view all active advocacy campaigns in the yellow column of the Take Action page. 

• Tell Congress: Protect FSEOG and Work-Study Funding
• Tell Congress: Save TRIO and Support College Access
• Tell Congress: Prioritize Visa Appointments for International Students and Scholars 
• Urge Congress to Protect Postsecondary Pathways 
• Tell Congress: International Students are Essential to America’s Safety, Economy, and Global Strength
• Tell Congress to Not Abandon Our National Commitment to Education
• Urge Congress to Protect Disabled Students 
• Don’t Flunk the Future Advocacy Toolkit 

As this challenging period for students, families, and institutions continues, the importance of advocacy has never been clearer. Each message sent to a lawmaker, each action taken through NACAC’s campaigns, and each conversation about the value of higher education helps strengthen our collective voice. Change rarely happens all at once — it builds through steady, determined effort.

As Marian Wright Edelman reminds us, “If you don’t like the way the world is, you change it. You have an obligation to change it. You just do it one step at a time.”

Each step we take — as advocates, educators, and engaged citizens — brings us closer to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.

By Sean Robins, NACAC’s director of advocacy

Welcome to this issue of the Advocacy Update on NACAC’s Admitted blog. As we enter the fourth week of the federal government shutdown, questions about when the stalemate will end are growing more urgent. This shutdown is now the second-longest in U.S. history, surpassed only by the 35-day shutdown during the previous Trump administration from December 2018 to January 2019. Beyond the political standoff, the closure has real consequences for millions of Americans, including federal employees missing paychecks, students and families facing delays in benefits, and disruptions to the Education Department’s critical oversight functions. In the midst of this uncertainty, institutions and students continue to navigate challenges ranging from federal policy proposals affecting academic freedom and international enrollment to declining federal support for postsecondary affordability, highlighting the ongoing importance of NACAC’s advocacy in protecting access, equity, and opportunity across higher education.

Policy & Legislative Updates 

The federal government remains in a prolonged shutdown, now extending into its fourth week, with little progress toward resolution. As millions of Americans face delayed paychecks and benefits, the shutdown has become both a political standoff and a policy test case for the Trump administration’s stated goal of permanently scaling back what it calls “Democrat programs.” The Senate has held repeated votes to reopen the government without success, while agencies like the Energy Department’s nuclear division prepare widespread furloughs.

The shutdown’s effects on education have been especially severe. The Education Department has largely ceased operations, leaving critical enforcement functions suspended. Recent layoffs — more than 460 employees in the past month — have further weakened oversight of special education, civil rights laws, and billions in federal grants. Education Secretary Linda McMahon has argued that this proves the department’s elimination is viable, while advocates warn that students with disabilities and other vulnerable populations are losing essential protections. The Trump administration’s exploration of a plan to move oversight of the $15 billion Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to another agency further signals its intent to dismantle the department. However, because both the IDEA and the Education Department itself were established by acts of Congress, relocating the program or closing the department would require new legislation — making this more a political signal than an imminent policy change.

At the same time, the administration continues its broader push to reshape higher education policy through the proposed Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education. The compact would tie priority federal funding to a series of politically driven conditions — including limits on international enrollment, tuition freezes, and restrictions on campus speech — drawing strong backlash from higher education leaders. This week the University of Virginia, Dartmouth College, the University of Arizona, and Washington University in St. Louis have all publicly declined to sign, citing threats to academic freedom, institutional governance, and the integrity of scientific research. No institutions have agreed to the compact by the administration’s stated deadline.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has also pursued investigations into diversity, equity, and inclusion practices on college campuses. The University of Virginia recently reached a settlement with DOJ, agreeing to pause investigations and comply with federal directives prohibiting the use of race in admission, hiring, and scholarships. The agreement allows UVA to avoid active enforcement actions for now, though it must provide data on compliance moving forward.

Across states and campuses, related policy shifts continue to emerge. The University of Illinois system has directed its campuses to end consideration of race, sex, or national origin in hiring, promotion, and financial aid decisions — effectively eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion statements and affirmative action practices. Faculty groups have criticized the decision as abrupt and made without shared governance. Meanwhile, new research from Education Reform Now finds a decline in the number of selective institutions publicly releasing racial enrollment data this fall — down from 34 to 16 year over year — amid increased federal scrutiny and political pressure. Early reporting indicates continued declines in Black student enrollment at most institutions.

Equity concerns are also reflected in new research on affordability. A joint report from the University of Alabama’s Education Policy Center and the Southern Education Foundation highlights a decade-long decline in Pell Grant funding, linking it to significant enrollment losses among Black students — particularly across the South. Between 2011–12 and 2021–22, federal Pell funding fell by nearly $8 billion, and the number of recipients declined by more than a third. Southern community colleges and majority-Black campuses were hardest hit, underscoring the need for Congress to stabilize and expand federal student aid. Complementing that call, the National Association of State Student Grant and Aid Programs reported that states collectively awarded $18.6 billion in aid during the 2023–24 academic year, a 12 percent increase from the prior year, with the vast majority directed toward need-based grants.

International education and workforce policy remain areas of contention as well. The Trump administration recently issued guidance exempting international graduates already in the U.S. from the $100,000 H-1B visa fee, following strong opposition from higher education and employer groups. The exemption applies to recent graduates seeking H-1B status and to current visa holders extending or changing status, but not to applicants abroad, leaving ongoing uncertainty for international hiring pipelines.

Finally, a new EdTrust brief underscores the urgent need for equity-centered strategies to meet state postsecondary attainment goals. While enrollment among Black and Latino students pursuing bachelor’s degrees has risen modestly in recent years, completion gaps remain wide, and community college enrollment continues to lag below pre-pandemic levels. As states adapt to the post–affirmative action landscape, the report calls for aligning funding and policy frameworks with student realities to ensure that all learners — especially those historically underserved — can access and complete high-quality educational pathways.

NACAC Advocacy 

This week, NACAC continued its advocacy to protect educational opportunity, transparency, and federal oversight in higher education. In response to the Department of Education’s request for information on modernizing the Institute of Education Sciences (IES), NACAC joined the Postsecondary Data Collaborative and partner organizations in urging the department to strengthen — rather than privatize — the federal postsecondary data infrastructure. The coalition emphasized the essential role of the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) in maintaining accurate, comprehensive, and publicly accessible data, calling for sustained federal oversight, adequate staffing, and continued investment in key collections such as IPEDS, NPSAS, and BPS.

NACAC also joined a broad coalition of higher education associations in opposing the Trump administration’s proposed Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education. The coalition warned that the compact would impose political and ideological litmus tests on colleges and universities in exchange for vaguely defined federal funding benefits — undermining academic freedom, institutional autonomy, and the open exchange of ideas that define U.S. higher education. The joint statement called on the administration to withdraw the proposal and instead support collaborative policymaking that strengthens, rather than constrains, higher education’s mission.

NACAC endorsed a congressional letter opposing mass layoffs at the Education Department, including within the Offices of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, Civil Rights, and Elementary and Secondary Education. The letter urges Secretary Linda McMahon and OMB Director Russell Vought to reverse the terminations, warning that these cuts erode federal enforcement of disability and civil rights protections and leave millions of students without critical support — just weeks before the 50th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

In addition, NACAC joined the American Council on Education and other higher education associations in urging the Department of Homeland Security to exempt colleges and universities from the new $100,000 H-1B visa fee established under the Sept. 19 Presidential Proclamation. The coalition emphasized that faculty, researchers, and staff on H-1B visas play a critical role in preparing students for high-demand fields such as healthcare, engineering, education, and computer science. The letter notes that institutions of higher education — already exempt under the H-1B lottery cap — are central to workforce development and national competitiveness and should not be subject to additional financial burdens that could impede their missions.

Ways You Can Take Action 

We are continuously updating our Take Action page with opportunities to make your voice heard. If you have not already, I encourage you to advocate on the urgent issues below. You can also view all active advocacy campaigns in the yellow column of the Take Action page. 

• Tell Congress: Save TRIO and Support College Access
• Tell Congress: Prioritize Visa Appointments for International Students and Scholars 
• Urge Congress to Protect Postsecondary Pathways 
• Tell Congress: International Students are Essential to America’s Safety, Economy, and Global Strength
• Tell Congress to Not Abandon Our National Commitment to Education
• Urge Congress to Protect Disabled Students 
• Don’t Flunk the Future Advocacy Toolkit 

This week’s developments underscore both the challenges and the opportunities facing higher education. Our collective advocacy demonstrates how coordinated, principled action can protect students, institutions, and the broader mission of education — even in the face of political gridlock, funding uncertainty, and federal policy shifts.

As Desmond Tutu reminds us, “Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”

Each effort — whether defending academic freedom, ensuring access for international students, or supporting federal protections — adds to a collective impact that safeguards opportunity and strengthens the future of education for all learners.

By Sean Robins, NACAC’s director of advocacy

Welcome to this issue of the Advocacy Update on NACAC’s Admitted blog. This week’s policy developments underscore the intense pressures facing higher education and federal oversight, from shutdown-related layoffs to new proposals that challenge institutional autonomy and access for students. At the same time, we are seeing colleges, states, and advocates step up to defend students, protect equity, and preserve academic freedom. Even in the midst of disruption, these actions highlight the resilience of the education community and the impact of organized advocacy in shaping policy outcomes.

Policy & Legislative Updates 

The Trump administration’s latest actions have intensified tensions across the education landscape, with colleges, advocates, and policymakers responding to a series of escalating developments affecting students, institutions, and federal oversight.

The administration turned its attention to undocumented student supports, directing the Education Department to investigate the University of Nevada, Reno’s UndocuPack program. The Justice Department claimed the university may have used taxpayer funds to “assist illegal immigrants,” while university president Brian Sandoval, a former Republican governor, strongly defended the initiative as lawful and fully state-funded. Advocates warn that the probe could serve as a “test case” aimed at deterring other campuses from offering services to undocumented students.

At the same time, the Trump administration introduced a proposed Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education, which ties new federal funding opportunities to institutional commitments around admissions, hiring, and “viewpoint diversity.” The proposal drew immediate skepticism from higher education leaders, who voiced concerns about threats to academic freedom and institutional independence. Faculty senates and professional organizations have urged colleges to reject the compact outright, calling it an attempt to restrict academic freedom, politicize research, and constrain inquiry. MIT became the first to formally decline, stating that federal funding should be merit-based, not politically conditioned. Following MIT’s rejection, the administration expanded the offer to all colleges and universities nationwide, prompting further backlash.

Brown University soon joined MIT in rejecting the compact, emphasizing the importance of protecting academic integrity and freedom from political interference. The University of Pennsylvania also added its voice, announcing that Penn would also decline to sign. Additionally, the University of Southern California has declined to sign, indicating that over time the Compact would “undermine the same values of free inquiry and academic excellence that the Compact seeks to promote.”

As higher education leaders push back on these ideological initiatives, the administration’s budgetary and personnel decisions have deepened instability across the federal workforce and at the U.S. Department of Education. Nearly 500 Education Department employees were laid off, among an estimated 4,200 individuals, in a new wave of cuts during the ongoing government shutdown — following an earlier round that had already reduced staff by half. The latest layoffs hit hardest in the Offices of Elementary and Secondary Education, Special Education, and Civil Rights, leaving some divisions with only a handful of staff. Unions and advocacy groups have filed lawsuits alleging the reductions are unlawful attempts to dismantle the department. Although the Supreme Court allowed the first round of cuts to proceed, a federal judge recently halted the most recent layoffs, calling them “likely illegal.”

The government shutdown has now stretched into its third week, leaving thousands of federal employees without pay and disrupting core services nationwide. Education programs and enforcement activities have been significantly affected, with the department’s capacity to administer grants, enforce civil rights protections, and support students with disabilities severely diminished. The shutdown’s ripple effects are being felt nationwide: food assistance programs like WIC are nearing exhaustion, federal workers are missing paychecks, and key education, housing, and fair housing offices have been gutted. Meanwhile, essential services like air traffic control and the military continue to operate — some without pay — as uncertainty deepens across the country.

Amid the federal uncertainty, several state and institutional efforts are moving in the opposite direction — advancing access and equity even as national policies sow disruption. California enacted a new law establishing direct admission to Cal State universities for eligible high school seniors — a policy designed to remove barriers and increase college enrollment among underserved students. In another key development, the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) and LatinoJustice PRLDEF have been granted permission to intervene in a federal lawsuit to defend the Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSI) program, ensuring that the interests of HSIs and their students are represented in court. Their involvement comes as congressional Republicans urge Education Secretary Linda McMahon to restore more than $450 million in funding for HSIs after the department deemed the programs unconstitutional.

Finally, the Education Department has again postponed its semiannual NACIQI meeting, now scheduled for December 16, following months of shutdown-related disruptions. The delay will postpone critical accreditation reviews and new appointments, raising concerns about an expanding backlog and further uncertainty in federal oversight.

NACAC Advocacy 

This week, NACAC joined national coalitions in two major advocacy efforts to safeguard students and uphold sound federal policymaking.

NACAC signed a letter with 35 organizations urging the Education Department to pause and revise its proposed Admissions and Consumer Transparency Supplement (ACTS) to IPEDS. The coalition, led by the Postsecondary Data Collaborative, warned that the proposal’s scope, speed, and lack of vetting would compromise data quality and impose excessive reporting burdens on institutions. The letter recommends narrowing the initial rollout to undergraduate data, delaying retrospective and graduate data collection, and reinstating technical assistance and staffing at NCES to preserve the integrity of federal education data.

NACAC also joined a broad alliance of disability, civil rights, and education organizations in condemning the Trump administration’s sweeping layoffs at the Education Department. The reductions have severely weakened key offices — Special Education Programs, Civil Rights, and Elementary and Secondary Education — undermining enforcement of IDEA, Section 504, and other laws that safeguard the rights of students with disabilities. As the nation marks the 50th anniversary of IDEA, the coalition is urging the administration and Congress to restore staffing and transparency, emphasizing that protecting students with disabilities remains both a legal and moral obligation.

Ways You Can Take Action 

We are continuously updating our Take Action page with opportunities to make your voice heard. If you have not already, I encourage you to advocate on the urgent issues below. You can also view all active advocacy campaigns in the yellow column of the Take Action page. 

• Tell Congress: Save TRIO and Support College Access
• Tell Congress: Prioritize Visa Appointments for International Students and Scholars 
• Urge Congress to Protect Postsecondary Pathways 
• Tell Congress: International Students are Essential to America’s Safety, Economy, and Global Strength
• Tell Congress to Not Abandon Our National Commitment to Education
• Urge Congress to Protect Disabled Students 
• Don’t Flunk the Future Advocacy Toolkit 

As NACAC and our partners continue to engage on these urgent issues, it’s clear that our collective voice can make a difference in safeguarding students and advancing equitable access to education. As Paulo Coelho reminds us, “When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too.”

Our advocacy work is a testament to that principle — by taking action to protect students, support college access, and defend equity, we are helping shape a stronger, more just education system for all.

By Sean Robins, NACAC’s director of advocacy

Welcome to the newest issue of the Advocacy Update on NACAC’s Admitted blog. This week, the landscape of higher education policy continues to shift rapidly, with significant developments affecting students, institutions, and educators alike. From legal challenges to federal policies that threaten access and equity, to new proposals shaping data reporting, student visas, and academic freedom, the issues are both complex and consequential. NACAC is actively monitoring these developments, elevating member concerns, and advocating for policies that protect opportunities for all students while supporting the integrity and autonomy of colleges and universities. Our work underscores the critical importance of staying engaged, informed, and proactive in shaping the education system and pathways that serves all learners.

Policy & Legislative Updates 

The Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) has filed two lawsuits against the U.S. Department of Education over the denial and discontinuation of more than 100 TRIO grants — one of the largest disruptions in the program’s history. COE contends that the department retroactively applied new anti-DEI policies without following required rulemaking processes, cutting off vital services for roughly 40,000 low-income, first-generation students, veterans, and adult learners. Representing colleges and agencies that operate TRIO programs, COE says the litigation aims to restore due process and preserve educational opportunity for students nationwide.

The controversy surrounding the Education Department has continued to grow amid reports that furloughed employees’ out-of-office email messages were replaced with partisan language blaming Democrats for the government shutdown. Career staff have raised Hatch Act concerns, arguing the edits may amount to coerced political speech. The Hatch Act is a 1939 law designed to keep federal programs nonpartisan and protect civil servants from political coercion. Under the Act, nearly all executive branch employees, including those on furlough, are prohibited from engaging in political activity in their official capacity. The American Federation of Government Employees has since filed suit, alleging violations of federal employees’ First Amendment rights and deepening scrutiny of political interference within the agency. House Education Committee Ranking Member Bobby Scott is also calling for a hearing, arguing the move is an “apparent violation of the Hatch Act” and other federal laws, calling it “incredibly egregious.”

Meanwhile, the shutdown itself shows no sign of resolution. After the Senate has failed to pass a measure to reopen the government, the White House warned that “reduction-in-force” notices could soon be issued across federal agencies — an unprecedented step during a funding lapse. The administration has also deleted references to the 2019 Government Employee Fair Treatment Act, raising fears that furloughed employees may be denied backpay. The prolonged stalemate has left hundreds of thousands of federal workers in limbo and further strained agencies responsible for administering student aid and civil rights enforcement.

Amid these disruptions, the Senate confirmed Kimberly Richey to lead the Education Department’s Office for Civil Rights in a narrow 51–47 vote along party lines. Richey inherits an office facing a backlog of more than 12,000 cases and operating with half its former workforce. Her confirmation raises questions about whether OCR will have the capacity and support needed to meet its mandate during the shutdown and beyond.

In other developments, higher education groups are closely watching several key policy and legal battles. A federal court upheld the Biden administration’s gainful employment rule, rejecting a challenge from for-profit colleges. The decision reinforces the effort to hold career programs accountable for student outcomes and ensure graduates can repay their loans and earn more than high school graduates. At the same time, the department has resumed loan forgiveness under the Income-Based Repayment plan for long-term borrowers, following months of delay and legal pressure.

The Trump administration is exploring the sale of portions of the federal government’s $1.6 trillion student loan portfolio to private investors — a move that could upend borrower protections and reshape the federal role in student lending. Critics warn that such a sale could harm borrowers and shortchange taxpayers, while supporters frame it as a step toward reducing federal liabilities and administrative costs.

International education also remains in the spotlight, as the Department of Homeland Security faces widespread opposition to its proposal limiting foreign student visas to four years. Colleges, faculty, and industry leaders argue that the change would disrupt degree completion, deter global talent, and impose unnecessary administrative burdens.

A growing flashpoint for higher education institutions is the Trump administration’s proposed “Compact for Academic Excellence,” which has drawn strong condemnation across the sector for what many view as an unprecedented intrusion into institutional governance and academic freedom. The compact would condition access to federal funding — including student aid and research grants — on compliance with a set of ideological directives related to curriculum, speech, and campus policy. Among its provisions are requirements to align institutional policies with the administration’s redefinition of sex and gender, limits on international student enrollment, and mandates for standardized testing in admission.

The Association of American Colleges & Universities, the American Council on Education, and dozens of other higher education organizations have denounced the proposal as coercive, politically motivated, and fundamentally at odds with the long-standing principle of institutional independence. Faculty groups warn that it would open the door for the federal government to dictate academic content and personnel decisions, eroding the core values of inquiry and free expression that underpin higher education. Institutions from across the ideological spectrum have signaled they will not sign the compact, calling it a “test of allegiance” that would compromise academic integrity in exchange for funding. The move has united many in higher education around a shared message: that federal support must not be used as leverage to enforce political conformity or suppress diversity of thought. With the October 20 feedback deadline approaching, colleges are preparing formal responses and considering potential legal challenges to safeguard their autonomy.

In the broader economic context, colleges and universities continue to face financial pressure. September saw another round of job cuts and program reductions across campuses nationwide, including at well-endowed institutions such as Washington University in St. Louis, Brown, and Yale. Leaders cite declining enrollment, rising operational costs, and uncertainty around federal funding as key drivers.

New data from Inside Higher Ed’s Student Voice survey underscores how many students face financial uncertainty. The responses show that fewer than one in three students fully understand their total cost of attendance, and many say even a modest unexpected expense could derail their enrollment. The findings point to a need for clearer cost transparency, better access to emergency aid, and stronger institutional support to promote student persistence.

In a constructive development for advocacy efforts, the American Council on Education has launched a new interactive tool highlighting the economic impact of higher education across states and congressional districts. The platform visualizes how colleges drive workforce development, innovation, and local prosperity — information that can bolster advocacy efforts by illustrating the essential role of higher education in national and regional economies.

States continue to advance their own efforts to expand college access. Connecticut recently launched the Connecticut Automatic Admission Program, which guarantees admission for eligible students with strong GPAs to 10 participating public and private colleges. By removing application fees, essays, and recommendation requirements, the initiative aims to simplify the admission process and increase college participation among the state’s high school graduates.

NACAC Advocacy 

This week, NACAC raised significant concerns regarding the U.S. Department of Education’s proposed Admissions and Consumer Transparency Supplement (ACTS) revision to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). In formal comments submitted to the department — developed with input from NACAC members — NACAC emphasized that while the association supports greater transparency in college admission, the proposal’s scope and pace would place an unreasonable reporting burden on institutions and risk misrepresenting the admission process.

The proposed rule would require colleges to report detailed applicant-level data, including race, GPA, and test scores over multiple years, within a compressed timeline. NACAC cautioned that many institutions lack the capacity to collect such granular data retroactively and warned that publishing this information without context could distort public understanding of admission practices, particularly at institutions serving diverse or under resourced populations.

In addition to its individual comments, NACAC joined the American Council on Education and other higher education associations in a coalition letter urging the department to delay implementation and engage stakeholders in a more deliberate review process. The letter highlights the potential for confusion, privacy risks, and data misuse under the proposed requirements, which would add more than 100 new data elements and mandate five years of retroactive reporting. Together, the associations called on the department to prioritize accuracy, fairness, and meaningful transparency that supports students and institutions alike.

Ways You Can Take Action 

We are continuously updating our Take Action page with opportunities to make your voice heard. If you have not already, I encourage you to advocate on the urgent issues below. You can also view all active advocacy campaigns in the yellow column of the Take Action page. 

• Tell Congress: Save TRIO and Support College Access
• Tell Congress: Prioritize Visa Appointments for International Students and Scholars 
• Urge Congress to Protect Postsecondary Pathways 
• Tell Congress: International Students are Essential to America’s Safety, Economy, and Global Strength
• Tell Congress to Not Abandon Our National Commitment to Education
• Urge Congress to Protect Disabled Students 
• Don’t Flunk the Future Advocacy Toolkit 

As NACAC members, your voice, expertise, and commitment are central to protecting access, equity, and opportunity in education. In the face of policy challenges, legal battles, and uncertainty, coming together as a community allows us to amplify our impact and advocate effectively for students and institutions alike. As Margaret Mead once said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

Your engagement, whether through advocacy, coalition-building, or sharing your experiences, ensures that our collective efforts continue to make a difference for students across the nation.

By Sean Robins, NACAC’s director of advocacy

Welcome to the latest Advocacy Update on NACAC’s Admitted blog. This week has underscored the difficult and uncertain moment we face in education policy. With the federal government now in a shutdown, critical services are paused, new threats to civil rights enforcement are emerging, and funding streams remain unstable. The weight of these disruptions is being felt directly by students, families, educators, and institutions. In the midst of these challenges, NACAC remains committed to empowering admission counseling professionals and advancing policies that ensure the transformative power of postsecondary education is accessible to all.

Policy & Legislative Updates 

The federal government officially shut down on Oct. 1, creating immediate uncertainty for higher education, K–12 schools, and students nationwide. While student aid programs like Pell Grants and federal loans will continue, nearly all Department of Education staff have been furloughed. This pause affects financial aid support, civil rights enforcement, regulatory actions, and research funding, with new grants and peer review panels on hold. A prolonged shutdown could leave colleges navigating compliance gaps, stalled innovation, and financial uncertainty, while federal employees and families feel the immediate impact. You can read more about the impact of the government shutdown on education and college access in a previous post, Looming Government Shutdown Threatens Access and Stability.

The shutdown compounds existing risks in federal student aid. The Congressional Research Service has warned of a looming “default cliff” this fall, as millions of federal student loans face default with the expiration of COVID-19 relief measures. Over 4 million borrowers were already more than 180 days delinquent as of June 2025, and these numbers could nearly double, putting additional strain on borrowers, the Department of Education, and colleges’ federal aid eligibility.

The Trump administration is also taking an aggressive approach in how it uses the shutdown. By freezing more than $26 billion in previously approved funds — including climate and infrastructure projects in Democratic-led states — the White House is using the fiscal standoff to punish political opponents. At the same time, federal workers face furloughs or are required to work without pay, deepening the risks of a prolonged shutdown and amplifying disruption across sectors.

Civil rights enforcement is facing new strain as well. The First Circuit Court of Appeals has cleared the way for the Department of Education to move forward with layoffs that will cut nearly half of the staff in the Office for Civil Rights. The ruling, which followed a July Supreme Court decision allowing broader reductions at the department, comes at a time of rising caseloads. Advocates warn these cuts will severely limit OCR’s capacity to protect students experiencing discrimination and harassment, leaving schools with fewer avenues for accountability.

At the K–12 level, the Trump administration has cut nearly $9 million in expected Fostering Diverse Schools funding just weeks into the school year. Districts in Anchorage (AK), East Baton Rouge (LA), Miami-Dade, New York City, and Los Angeles relied on these grants to support racial and socioeconomic integration, and advocates warn that the termination accelerates trends toward resegregation.

The administration has also narrowed two school mental health grant programs, Mental Health Service Professional Demonstration grant program and School-Based Mental Health Services grant program. The relaunched programs direct $270 million solely to school psychologists while excluding counselors, social workers, and colleges from applying — a shift away from earlier efforts to build a diverse pipeline of school-based mental health professionals.

In higher education, disparities in federal support remain a major concern. A new report from the Center for American Progress and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund shows that HBCUs received less than 1 percent of federal research and development funding in fiscal year 2023, despite representing 3.2 percent of four-year institutions and producing nearly 18 percent of Black STEM graduates. The report urges Congress and the administration to set benchmarks, expand capacity-building investments, and ensure equitable access to federal research opportunities.

The Trump administration also is using funding decisions to exert political influence. Universities face new pressures through the “Compact for Academic Excellence,” which ties federal research funding to alignment with federal priorities on tuition, admission, and governance. Harvard faces potential suspension or debarment over alleged Title VI violations, and Kentucky has agreed to end in-state tuition for undocumented students following a Department of Justice lawsuit. Meanwhile, the administration is proposing to link federal research grants to ideological compliance, raising concerns about academic freedom and institutional autonomy.

Congressional scrutiny of higher education also is increasing. House and Senate antitrust committees are investigating how major enrollment management firms, the College Board, Ellucian, and Oracle use student data to guide tuition pricing and financial aid decisions, reflecting growing concern over opaque pricing practices.

Finally, access to higher student loans remains constrained. The Department of Education is maintaining a narrow definition of “professional programs” eligible for higher borrowing, excluding critical fields such as nursing, education, and mental health. Advisory committees warn this could push students toward private loans and limit the pipeline for essential professions.

NACAC Advocacy 

This week, NACAC continued to advance its advocacy on behalf of students, college admission counselors, and institutions navigating an increasingly volatile policy environment. On Sept. 30, the U.S. District Court for Massachusetts issued a landmark ruling in AAUP v. Rubio, a case NACAC joined through a amicus brief led by the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration. The court struck down the administration’s policy of arresting and deporting noncitizen students and faculty for engaging in protected speech, affirming that noncitizens lawfully present in the United States hold the same First Amendment rights as citizens. The decision reinforces the principle that academic freedom and free expression cannot be curtailed on the basis of immigration status or political viewpoint.

NACAC also joined 53 higher education organizations in opposing the Department of Homeland Security’s proposed rule to impose fixed time limits on international students and exchange visitors. The proposed restrictions would disrupt degree completion, undermine experiential learning, and delay work authorization for researchers, threatening both U.S. colleges and the $44 billion economic contribution of international students. Together, the organizations urged DHS to withdraw the rule and instead rely on existing systems to address fraud concerns without destabilizing institutions or harming students.

Finally, NACAC joined more than 60 education organizations in calling on Congress to provide stability and transparency in federal higher education funding. Recent delays in FY 2025 allocations have already hindered program implementation and affected students and families. With FY 2026 appropriations approaching, NACAC and its partners urged lawmakers to ensure funds are spent as intended, preventing further disruption and safeguarding access for underserved students.

Through these efforts, NACAC continues to press for policies that protect free expression, preserve access, and uphold stable, equitable funding for education programs.

Ways You Can Take Action 

We are continuously updating our Take Action page with opportunities to make your voice heard. If you have not already, I encourage you to advocate on the urgent issues below. You can also view all active advocacy campaigns in the yellow column of the Take Action page. 

• Tell Congress: Save TRIO and Support College Access
• Tell Congress: Prioritize Visa Appointments for International Students and Scholars 
• Urge Congress to Protect Postsecondary Pathways 
• Tell Congress: International Students are Essential to America’s Safety, Economy, and Global Strength
• Tell Congress to Not Abandon Our National Commitment to Education
• Urge Congress to Protect Disabled Students 
• Don’t Flunk the Future Advocacy Toolkit 

These are challenging times for students, educators, and institutions, and the decisions being made at the federal level will have lasting consequences. NACAC remains committed to advocating for policies that protect access, equity, and opportunity in education. As Jamil Zaki writes in Hope for Cynics, “It actually is hope — the sense that things could improve in the future — mixed with fury, that inspires people to fight for progress, even when victory seems well out of reach.”

Even in moments of uncertainty, our collective efforts and advocacy ensure that students’ futures remain a priority.

By Sean Robins, NACAC’s director of advocacy

The federal government is at risk of a shutdown. If lawmakers cannot reach an agreement today on a Continuing Resolution to fund the government, federal operations will shut down at midnight.

For students, families, and colleges, the consequences are tangible. Here’s what to expect.

U.S. Department of Education Contingency Plan

The Department of Education has released a contingency plan, detailing how it would maintain critical operations while furloughing most staff. During the first week, roughly 95 percent of employees — about 2,117 of 2,447 — would be furloughed, leaving approximately 112 essential personnel to protect life and property or continue legally required functions.

What Will Continue
These activities are largely funded through mandatory or advance appropriations and are legally required to continue:

• Student Aid Disbursement: Pell Grants and Federal Direct Loans will continue to be distributed.
• Student Loan Servicing: Borrowers can continue making payments; contract staff servicing loans will remain active.
• Grant Funding: Title I and IDEA grants already awarded will be accessible to states, schools, and grantees.
• FAFSA Processing: Key operations to support student financial aid applications will continue.
• Rulemaking for Statutory Requirements: Certain Office of Federal Student Aid rulemaking tied to law will proceed.
• Bipartisan Safer Communities Act Programs: Mental health initiatives funded under this law will continue to operate.

What Will Cease
Many discretionary and administrative functions would be temporarily paused:

• New Grantmaking: The department will halt awarding new grants.
• Civil Rights Investigations: Office for Civil Rights (OCR) reviews and investigations will pause.
• Guidance and Regulatory Actions: Development and implementation of guidance, technical assistance, and regulations will be delayed.
• Contracting: The department will not issue new contracts during a shutdown, except those tied to “expected activities.” These are legally required functions that must continue, such as those authorized by law, necessary to keep already-funded work moving forward, needed to protect life or property, or tied to the President’s constitutional duties. Even for these contracts, payments may be delayed.

Even brief disruptions can create cascading challenges, slowing program implementation and creating uncertainty for students planning their college education. The department’s plan emphasizes rapid shutdown procedures, including furlough notices, securing federal property, and notifying grantees and contractors. While staff would return immediately once funding is restored, the impact of paused discretionary work could ripple across the education system, particularly for underserved communities.

A government shutdown is a tangible threat to students, colleges, and the broader goal of equitable access to higher education. Ensuring Congress reaches a funding agreement is essential to protect students’ opportunities, financial security, and pathways to college and career success.

NACAC’s Ongoing Monitoring and Updates

NACAC is closely tracking developments related to the looming government shutdown and the Department of Education’s operations. We are committed to keeping members informed as new information becomes available, including changes to student aid, grant funding, and other critical education programs. As the situation evolves, NACAC will provide timely insights and guidance to help colleges, high schools, and students navigate any disruptions. NACAC members can also take action and make their voices heard through NACAC’s Advocacy in Action page, which provides resources and opportunities to engage with lawmakers on issues that affect education access.

By Sean Robins, NACAC’s director of advocacy

Welcome to the latest Advocacy Update on NACAC’s Admitted blog. Thank you to all our members who joined us last week in Columbus, Ohio for the NACAC Conference 2025 — it was inspiring to connect in person and discuss the pressing issues facing the college admission counseling community. At the conference, we also launched NACAC’s new Advocacy Toolkit, designed to provide members with practical resources to engage policymakers, communicate the value of college access programs, and protect students’ opportunities. In Washington, D.C., a potential government shutdown looms if Congress cannot reach agreement on a Continuing Resolution by Oct. 1, creating uncertainty for education funding and federal programs. NACAC remains committed to ensuring students have equitable access to higher education and that institutions have the resources they need to serve them.

Policy & Legislative Updates 

The Education Department launched the 2026–27 FAFSA this week, meeting its Oct. 1 target date. Still, a new GAO report warns that future forms remain vulnerable to the same technical breakdowns that plagued last year’s rollout. GAO pointed to weaknesses in contractor oversight, staffing, and testing plans, raising concerns about whether FSA has the accountability measures in place to prevent similar disruptions to aid access.

At the same time, courts and federal agencies are weighing in on policies with far-reaching impact. Judges in Washington and Rhode Island temporarily blocked a Trump administration directive requiring immigration status verification for programs like Head Start, adult education, and career training, citing evidence of enrollment declines and classroom closures. In another case, a federal judge declined to reinstate more than $1 billion in NSF research grants canceled under the administration’s anti-DEI directive, underscoring the broad scope of its efforts to dismantle equity-related programs in science and innovation. Meanwhile, the administration is also unilaterally canceling hundreds of federal education grants, halting multi-year awards midstream and leaving schools and nonprofits scrambling to fill funding gaps. A separate ruling ordered the administration to restore $500 million in frozen federal grants to UCLA, protecting critical medical research projects. And in the federal workforce, a judge ruled that the administration’s mass firing of probationary employees was illegal, a significant win for civil service protections.

Equity-focused education programs remain especially vulnerable. The administration has frozen $660 million in TRIO funding, leaving hundreds of thousands of first-generation and low-income students in limbo. Colleges and nonprofits approved for grants are instead receiving “no cost extensions,” forcing them to cut staff, shutter programs, or scale back services. McNair Scholars also face uncertainty, with many institutions still waiting on delayed awards amid ongoing lawsuits. At the same time, $350 million has been cut from programs supporting minority-serving institutions, Hispanic-serving schools, and STEM opportunities for students of color, with dollars redirected to charter schools and “patriotic” civics programs. While HBCUs and tribal colleges will see a one-time boost, the cuts pit institutions against one another and divert resources away from public education.

The Education Department has also escalated its political fight with elite universities, placing Harvard University on heightened cash monitoring — an unusual step for a university with a $53 billion endowment. Experts call it a political move that could disrupt aid for low-income students and reflects the administration’s broader attacks on elite institutions.

International students are facing mounting challenges as policy shifts drive enrollment declines. New data show student visa arrivals to the U.S. fell to a four-year low this August — down 19 percent from last year, with the steepest declines from Asia. Backlogs, uncertainty, and new hurdles are chilling interest among prospective students. Trump’s recent proclamation adds to these barriers by imposing a one-time $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa applications, a sharp increase that could curb hiring of international graduates, further discourage enrollment, and squeeze industries — especially tech and healthcare — that depend on skilled foreign talent. A new Brookings report warns that restrictive visa policies pose not just enrollment risks but broader financial, economic, and global consequences. Smaller private colleges, particularly Christian institutions where international students make up 30 percent or more of enrollment, face the greatest strain. The report underscores that while elite universities may weather declines, many institutions — and the communities around them — could suffer lasting damage if international students increasingly choose other countries over the U.S.

Public pressure has shown it can make a difference. The Department of Energy recently abandoned a proposed Title IX athletics rule that would have rolled back protections for girls in sports after receiving more than 21,000 comments in opposition. Still, broader efforts to weaken equity protections persist — from federal lawsuits challenging state and local teacher loan forgiveness programs designed to diversify the educator workforce, to new federal proposals privileging “patriotic education” over a full and accurate account of U.S. history. The Department of Education has also launched the America 250 Civics Education Coalition, partnering with more than 40 conservative groups to create civics programming framed as “renewing patriotism,” raising questions about federal involvement in curriculum and the exclusion of more comprehensive perspectives.

The looming government shutdown further complicates the landscape. Trump has urged Republicans to move forward without Democrats and has cancelled scheduled meetings with Democratic leadership, even though bipartisan support is required in the Senate. House Republicans unveiled a seven-week stopgap bill, but Democrats quickly countered with their own proposal to extend health care subsidies, restore frozen funding, and increase oversight of federal spending. Neither side has yet secured a deal, and with the Oct. 1 deadline approaching, the Office of Management and Budget is directing agencies to prepare for mass layoffs rather than temporary furloughs if funding lapses. While some programs with advance funding, like Title I and IDEA, should continue, OMB could still block the release of billions in education funding. The uncertainty is especially concerning given that $22 billion in advance FY 2026 funding for Title I, IDEA, Title II, and CTE grants is scheduled for release Oct. 1.

Adding to the political landscape, Democrat Adelita Grijalva won the special election in Arizona’s 7th District, filling the seat previously held by her late father, Rep. Raúl Grijalva. Her arrival shifts the House balance to 214 Democrats and 219 Republicans, with two vacancies remaining, slightly narrowing the GOP majority as Congress heads toward the Oct. 1 funding deadline.

Meanwhile, student loan borrowers continue to face long delays in accessing promised relief. More than a million income-driven repayment applications remain backlogged, and the PSLF Buyback program is also experiencing long waits. While the Department has made some progress in processing, the American Federation of Teachers is seeking to expand its lawsuit against ED, arguing that these delays unlawfully block borrowers from affordable repayment plans guaranteed under federal law.

On the ground, colleges are navigating both immediate pressures and longer-term structural challenges. A new report from the Hope Center at Temple University highlights the scale of unmet student needs: Eight percent of undergraduates and five percent of graduate students — more than 1.5 million students — experience homelessness, while nearly half face housing insecurity. Food insecurity, lack of technology, and transportation costs compound the crisis, undermining persistence and completion. The National Student Clearinghouse underscores how systemic inequities play out in outcomes, with graduates of high-poverty high schools completing college at less than half the rate of their peers.

Institutions are testing new strategies to signal affordability and build trust with families. Income-based tuition guarantees, now being adopted by a growing number of colleges and universities, are designed to provide clarity up front. Programs like the “W&L Promise” at Washington & Lee and new commitments from Wake Forest, Reed, Emory, MIT, and others aim to cut through sticker-price confusion and demonstrate affordability for low- and middle-income families.

These innovations are emerging against a backdrop of broader public and institutional concern. A new Gallup poll shows public confidence in K-12 education has dropped to a record low, even as parents of K-12 students report relatively high satisfaction with their own children’s schools. Meanwhile, a new ACE survey finds nearly three-quarters of college presidents “extremely concerned” about the federal policy agenda — particularly cuts to research, restrictions on borrowing through OBBBA, and new accountability measures tying institutional outcomes to student earnings.

NACAC Advocacy 

This week, NACAC took action on several fronts to protect access and support student success. We joined an amicus brief in Commonwealth of Virginia et al. v. Secretary of Veterans Affairs, urging the court to uphold veterans’ access to the full 48 months of GI Bill benefits. The brief highlights the financial and educational impacts of limiting benefits, underscoring the importance of timely support for student veterans and their dependents.

NACAC also joined a coalition calling on the Department of Education to preserve Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). The coalition warned that proposed regulatory changes could conflict with congressional intent, jeopardizing relief for over 2.5 million public service borrowers who pursued lower-paying careers in good faith.

Finally, NACAC endorsed the Community and Technical College Investment Act, which would provide federal grants enabling states to offer tuition-free community and technical college programs for students facing financial hardship. The bill also emphasizes alignment with workforce and social services, outcome tracking, and program sustainability, helping students complete credentials and degrees that lead to meaningful careers.

Ways You Can Take Action 

We are continuously updating our Take Action page with opportunities to make your voice heard. If you have not already, I encourage you to advocate on the urgent issues below. You can also view all active advocacy campaigns in the yellow column of the Take Action page. 

• Tell Congress: Save TRIO and Support College Access
• Tell Congress: Prioritize Visa Appointments for International Students and Scholars 
• Urge Congress to Protect Postsecondary Pathways 
• Tell Congress: International Students are Essential to America’s Safety, Economy, and Global Strength
• Tell Congress to Not Abandon Our National Commitment to Education
• Urge Congress to Protect Disabled Students 
• Don’t Flunk the Future Advocacy Toolkit 

As we continue our advocacy work, it is important to remember that the actions we take today can shape a brighter future for students, families, and institutions — even if we may not see the immediate results. In the words of Nelson Henderson, “The true meaning of life is to plant trees under whose shade you do not expect to sit.” By working together, advocating for equitable policies, and supporting access to higher education, we are planting seeds of opportunity that will benefit generations to come.

By Sean Robins, NACAC’s director of advocacy

Welcome to the latest Advocacy Update on NACAC’s Admitted blog. With our annual conference in Columbus, Ohio just days away, we look forward to connecting with members and partners about the issues shaping higher education. In Washington, D.C., budget deadlines and policy shifts continue to place institutions and students under pressure, with Congress still debating how to fund the government beyond the Oct. 1 deadline. NACAC remains focused on ensuring students have equitable access to higher education and institutions have the resources to serve them.

Please note: the next issue of the Advocacy Update will be published on Sept. 26, following the annual conference, and we will be happy to bring you further updates then.

Policy & Legislative Updates 

A government shutdown is looming while Congress weighs a continuing resolution (CR) to keep the government funded past Oct. 1. Republican appropriations leaders have proposed a short-term extension through November, while the administration favors a January extension that would carry funding a third of the way into FY 2026. Democrats have pushed back, noting that passage in the Senate requires 60 votes and therefore bipartisan support. It is unclear if Democrats will approve a “clean” CR, as they want certain priorities included and assurances that enacted funding will not be withheld or rescinded.

Federal funding and policy developments continue to place higher education institutions and students under significant strain. The University of California system recently warned state leaders that federal funding cuts could cost billions and devastate campuses. UC President James B. Milliken highlighted that $500 million has already been frozen at UCLA, warning that continued reductions would force deep cuts to classes, student services, research, and health care, while driving talent out of the state. The stakes are high and immediate, illustrating how federal funding uncertainty directly impacts institutional capacity and student opportunity.

At the federal level, the Department of Education has made several major policy shifts. Most IDEA Part D competitive grants will continue, but $14.8 million has been canceled, redirected to teacher training programs. Some grantees must now certify alignment with the administration’s priorities before receiving awards, and programs referencing diversity, equity, and inclusion concepts were disproportionately affected, signaling a narrowing of federal priorities. Similarly, the department announced discretionary grant programs for minority-serving institutions will be eliminated, impacting Hispanic-Serving Institutions, Predominantly Black Institutions, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions, Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions, and Native American-Serving Nontribal Institutions. These actions place $350 million in federal support at risk and raise concerns about destabilizing under-resourced campuses, though HBCUs and Tribal Colleges and Universities remain unaffected.

The Department of Education also is expanding its Office of Consumer Education and Ombudsman to provide students and families with guidance on the risks and benefits of borrowing for college. The shift reflects concerns over the $1.7 trillion federal student loan portfolio and high default rates, with new accountability measures also being developed for loan servicers. The department is simultaneously planning to propose new regulations to streamline the termination of federal funding for institutions found in civil rights violations. This comes amid the Trump administration’s aggressive use of civil rights investigations to freeze or pull billions from institutions over diversity efforts, transgender student inclusion, and responses to campus antisemitism.

Other administrative actions include ending the National Blue Ribbon Schools program, which recognized more than 9,000 schools for academic achievement and progress in closing achievement gaps since 1982. The department cited a desire to “return education to the states,” though this raises questions about consistency and visibility of recognition at a national level. Additionally, the Trump administration is shifting adult education programs to the Department of Labor under a new state plan portal, raising concerns about weakening career and technical education and reducing federal support for students who depend on these programs.

Institutional and student outcomes continue to be affected by these policy shifts. Transfer outcomes for first-time community college students remain largely stagnant, with only 31.6 percent transferring within six years and fewer than half of those earning a bachelor’s degree. Strategies such as dual enrollment, transferring to public four-year institutions, and completing a credential before transfer improve outcomes and illustrate actionable pathways to strengthen student success. Dual enrollment itself has grown significantly, reaching 2.5 million students in 2022-23. Research shows these students are more likely to apply to and be admitted by selective colleges and secure scholarships, with especially strong benefits for Black and Hispanic students. However, access remains uneven across states, leaving many students without equitable access to these opportunities.

A new analysis from the Center for Appropriate Dispute Resolution in Special Education (CADRE) finds that special education disputes are rising sharply, with written state complaints up 22 percent in 2023-24 and nearly double the 10-year average. States are struggling to manage backlogs amid educator shortages and limited capacity, while the Office for Civil Rights operates at reduced staffing levels. Mediation continues to show high success rates, but federal backlogs are forcing states into roles they are not fully equipped to manage.

Student populations with specific needs are also highlighted in recent research. A new report from the Annie E. Casey Foundation highlights the steep barriers young parenting students face, with dropout rates more than 20 points higher than peers. Financial insecurity, lack of child care, and inflexible policies are cited as major barriers. Pilot programs, such as Miami Dade College’s Mission North Star, demonstrate that targeted institutional support can significantly improve retention and completion rates, particularly for students of color and first-generation students.

Data on broader student learning outcomes and institutional impact reflect both pandemic disruptions and longer-term inequities. NAEP results show record-low scores in 12^th grade math and reading, along with widened achievement gaps. While the findings raise concerns about college and career readiness, experts also note that assessments like NAEP may not always receive students’ full attention. Tribal Colleges and Universities continue to demonstrate strong economic and social returns, with graduates contributing billions to the U.S. economy, supporting tens of thousands of jobs, and generating tax revenue at a higher rate than federal investment.

Political and legislative developments are also shaping the higher education landscape. A recent special election in Virginia maintained Democratic control of the 11th District, narrowing the Republican majority in the U.S. House. At the federal level, the House Appropriations Committee advanced a partisan spending bill cutting Title I funding by 26 percent and reducing the Department of Education’s overall budget by 15 percent, while the Senate’s approach remains bipartisan, setting up a contentious budget debate ahead of the Oct. 1 fiscal year deadline. Additionally, a bipartisan coalition of 34 senators is pressing the Department of Education and the Office of Management and Budget to release long-delayed TRIO grants, which serve nearly 870,000 low-income and first-generation students. Delays have forced layoffs and scaled-back services, threatening access to critical advising and support.

Federal research money is set to return to Harvard after a judge ruled the Trump administration’s sweeping funding blockade unlawful. Notices restoring hundreds of grants have begun reaching researchers, though no payments have yet been made. The administration has vowed to appeal, raising the possibility of another disruption.

NACAC Advocacy 

This week, NACAC continued its advocacy to protect students’ access to higher education and strengthen pathways to completion. NACAC joined the Student Aid Alliance in urging Congress to reject harmful cuts in the FY26 budget, including the proposed elimination of the Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) and a nearly 40 percent reduction in Federal-Work Study (FWS). These programs — alongside the Pell Grant — are essential tools that help low-income students access and succeed in college while meeting workforce demand for postsecondary credentials.

At the same time, NACAC joined 31 other higher education associations in calling on the State Department to exempt international students on F, J, and M visas from the June 2025 travel ban. International students already undergo extensive vetting and monitoring, and their presence strengthens U.S. academic excellence, fuels economic growth, and supports global engagement. Ensuring these students can continue to study in the United States without added barriers helps protect enrollment, research, and the nation’s commitment to education exchange.

Ways You Can Take Action 

We are continuously updating our Take Action page with opportunities to make your voice heard. If you have not already, I encourage you to advocate on the urgent issues below. You can also view all active advocacy campaigns in the yellow column of the Take Action page. 

• Tell Congress: Save TRIO and Support College Access
• Tell Congress: Prioritize Visa Appointments for International Students and Scholars 
• Urge Congress to Protect Postsecondary Pathways 
• Tell Congress: International Students are Essential to America’s Safety, Economy, and Global Strength
• Tell Congress to Not Abandon Our National Commitment to Education
• Urge Congress to Protect Disabled Students 
• Don’t Flunk the Future Advocacy Toolkit 

As federal policy and funding debates continue, NACAC remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting student access, supporting institutions, and advancing equity in higher education. The challenges ahead are significant, but so is our collective capacity to act.

As the late U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg reminded us, “Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time.”

Every advocacy action, every conversation with policymakers, and every effort to amplify student voices moves us closer to a higher education system that serves all students and communities. Together, we can turn uncertainty into opportunity and continue building pathways for student success.

We look forward to advancing this work alongside you in the weeks ahead and sharing further updates in our Sept. 26 issue, following NACAC Conference 2025.