With the Trump administration taking office in 2025, higher education institutions and students are facing a new wave of swift policy changes. Key areas typically affected by a transition of power include federal oversight, funding priorities and regulations governing colleges and universities.
This article tracks key changes impacting higher education, examines how institutions are responding, and highlights what stakeholders should watch for in the coming months.
Executive Orders Impacting Higher Education
With a large number of executive orders in the first few weeks of its return, the Trump administration has moved quickly to make key changes to immigration policies and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), among others.
Immigration Policies
President Trump issued Executive Order 14161 on January 20, 2025, aimed at strengthening national security through enhanced immigration procedures. The order, titled "Protecting the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats," mandates stricter vetting standards for foreign nationals seeking entry into the United States.
The directive reinstates screening protocols from Trump's previous administration while ordering a comprehensive review of current visa and immigration policies. The order also calls for increased monitoring of foreign nationals already within U.S. borders and emphasizes programs to promote immigrant assimilation into American society. Officials will evaluate existing visa programs to address potential security vulnerabilities.
This policy change has concerned some higher education institutions about potential declines in international student enrollment and the potential presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on college campuses, which was previously barred in past policies.
A separate executive order targeting anti-Semitism allows officials to revoke visas and initiate deportation proceedings for international students labeled as "Hamas sympathizers."
In response to these executive orders, some higher education institutions and advocacy groups have expanded support services, asked for policy adjustments, and are seeking legal clarity to ensure that they are adhering by proper policies.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion (DEI)
Colleges nationwide have already had to act with urgency in response to the 2023 Supreme Court decision barring race-based admissions, and now face additional new policies limiting DEI programs and initiatives.
The new directives bar federal funding for race, gender and identity-based training and programs, and remove mandatory diversity statements from faculty hiring.
Navigating the shifting landscape of DEI has been challenging and the higher education space is split in its response. Some institutions canceled diversity celebrations and cultural events to comply, while others are seeking ways to maintain inclusion efforts within the new constraints.
There is also uncertainty around the future state of these measures, as various legal challenges are beginning to unfold. The American Association of University Professors and other groups have sued over the orders, arguing they violate academic freedom and university independence.
Universities are watching these lawsuits closely as they reshape diversity efforts. The court outcomes could likely have a significant impact on how higher education approaches inclusion and representation moving forward.
Proposed Elimination of the Department of Education
President Trump has proposed dismantling the Department of Education, pushing to transfer control of education policy to states and local governments. The Education Department currently oversees federal education policies and programs, including federal student aid, research, and civil rights laws like Title IX.
The plan would shift the department's duties to other federal agencies and convert education funding into state block grants.
The proposed elimination of the Department of Education has also raised concerns about accrediting bodies. Without federal oversight, accreditation policies could fragment, potentially affecting how colleges maintain access to federal funding and meet academic standards.
The plan faces major hurdles and if set in motion, could fundamentally redefine higher education nationwide.
Trump Administration Priorities
The new administration's policy shifts are affecting higher education through changes in federal research funding, Title IX regulations and workforce development priorities. These directives could change how institutions operate nationwide.
Changes to Federal Research Funding
The Trump administration has reduced research funding reimbursements to universities, with the National Institutes of Health capping indirect costs at 15% - roughly half the current average rate. Some institutions previously received up to 50% for overhead costs.
The University at Buffalo (UB) expressed concerns that the cap would have “a significantly disruptive impact on UB’s ability to carry out lifesaving medical research,” said University at Buffalo officials. Yale University leaders warned the cuts could destabilize research programs and drive young scientists from academia.
Twenty-two states have sued NIH over the restrictions. A federal judge has temporarily blocked the payment cap while the case proceeds.
Changes affecting Title IX and Campus Policies
The Department of Education has reinstated the 2020 Title IX regulations, requiring cross-examination in misconduct cases and narrowing sexual harassment definitions.
Critics say these changes impede justice for survivors, while supporters argue they ensure fair disciplinary processes. Universities now face updated compliance requirements for handling misconduct cases.
Focus on Workforce Development and Vocational Training
The Trump administration has actively promoted the expansion of apprenticeships and vocational education as a key priority. In 2017, President Trump signed an executive order to establish the Task Force on Apprenticeship Expansion, aiming to create more apprenticeship opportunities.
This focus may result in a reallocation of federal funding from traditional higher education institutions to workforce development initiatives.
The Future of Higher Education Under the Trump Administration
The 2025 Trump administration policies have brought sweeping changes to higher education, affecting international students, campus diversity programs, transgender student rights and federal oversight.
Key shifts include stricter visa requirements, limits on diversity initiatives and new restrictions on transgender athletes.
With legal battles and compliance challenges ahead, universities must navigate shifting policies while advocacy groups and policymakers debate their implications. As the landscape evolves, staying informed on legislative, judicial, and institutional responses will be crucial in shaping the future of higher education.