House Budget Plan Threatens Deep Cuts to Higher Education

Education Department Moves to End MSI Programs

The U.S. Department of Education announced it will end discretionary grant programs for Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs), including those serving Hispanic, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, and predominantly Black students, calling them unconstitutional “racial quotas.” This decision halts over $100 million in existing and future awards, stunning higher ed leaders who warn it will strip vital resources from already underfunded institutions. While the Department pledged to “re-envision” the programs, the lack of clarity leaves MSIs uncertain about future support.

Key Takeaway: Institutional leaders should prepare for funding gaps, monitor legal challenges closely, and consider collective advocacy as Congress and the courts weigh in on the Department’s authority.

Dual Enrollment Research Shows Strong Outcomes

Dual enrollment has surged to 2.5 million participants nationwide, with nearly half of public high schoolers in states like Idaho and Indiana taking college-level courses. New research shows dual-enrollment students—particularly Black and Hispanic participants—are more likely to apply to selective colleges, be admitted, and receive scholarships or grants than peers without dual-credit experience. These findings highlight the academic and financial benefits of dual enrollment while raising questions about equity, program quality, and state-level variation in access.
Quick Insight: Colleges should view dual enrollment as both an equity driver and a vital enrollment pipeline requiring intentional investment and oversight.

Despite widespread predictions of an “enrollment cliff,” many colleges reported record numbers this fall, crediting growth in health sciences programs, expanded dual-enrollment pipelines, improved retention initiatives, and the launch of new graduate programs. Institutions highlight these strategies as critical in attracting both traditional-age and adult learners, bucking expectations of widespread declines.
Insight: Strategic program development and stronger retention pipelines are proving effective countermeasures to the looming enrollment cliff.

Caregiving Duties Could Make Parenting Students More Likely To Withdraw From College

A new report from the Center for Community College Student Engagement finds that parenting students face steep challenges balancing academics, work, and caregiving, with 71% saying these responsibilities could cause them to withdraw from college. Although most parenting students enroll to change careers, many underutilize support services such as career counseling and job placement, while struggling with food and housing insecurity. The report urges colleges to provide flexible course options, expand childcare partnerships, and proactively connect parenting students with campus and community resources. Cuts to programs like CCAMPIS that help fund childcare on college campuses could further impact institutions’ ability to retain parenting students.
Key Takeaway: Community colleges must tailor flexible policies and proactive support systems to keep parenting students enrolled and on track to degree completion.

Adult Learners Statistics 

Adult learners—students over 25—make up nearly a quarter of all undergraduates, with 3.9 million enrolled in fall 2023. The majority are women, many are parents, and most work while in school, which creates significant financial and time barriers. While adult learners pursue degrees primarily to improve workforce prospects, they often depend on flexible online options and protections like Title IX to continue their studies while parenting.
Key Insight: Serving adult learners requires colleges to prioritize flexibility, affordability, and family support systems to ensure persistence and completion.

Published: September 15, 2025