After just one week in office, The White House Office of Management and Budget directed federal agencies to temporarily pause activities regarding obligation and disbursement of federal financial assistance, which is something a lot of students depend on to pay for school.
The announcement caused confusion and concern across the country leaving students, educators, and administrators scrambling to understand the potential impacts.
Many were under the assumption that federal student loans and Pell Grants would be removed, making college unaffordable for those who rely on government aid. However, the U.S. Department of Education clarified that direct student loans and Pell Grants would not be affected by the pause.
While this is a good thing for many, the Trump administration has placed student aid programs under review to determine whether they align with recent executive orders. These programs that are being assessed are targeted to see if programs provide support to undocumented immigrants, fund diversity and promote gender ideology.
This review extends beyond higher education, as it can impact K-12 funding as well. Some federal funds which include helping low-income school districts, support special education programs and provide resources for struggling students are being reviewed. If these programs are removed with the new executive orders, schools might lose funding for services that helps student success.