As of March 11, 2025, American higher education stands at a crossroads amid President Donald Trump’s evolving education policies. With ongoing discussions about executive orders, potential restructuring of the U.S. Department of Education, and influence from the Project 2025 policy blueprint, colleges and students are preparing for possible changes.
What does this mean for higher education in 2025? Let’s explore the latest developments, Trump’s education agenda, and the potential impact on students and institutions.
Trump’s Education Department: What’s Changing?
During his 2024 campaign, Trump reaffirmed his long-standing pledge to overhaul or eliminate the U.S. Department of Education. As of today, no executive order has been signed to dissolve the department, but discussions continue. According to The Miami Herald, a potential executive order is under review.
However, dismantling the department entirely would require congressional approval—a significant hurdle, given that it oversees $1.5 trillion in student loans and manages programs like Pell Grants and FAFSA.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon, confirmed by the Senate on March 3, 2025, aligns with Trump’s vision but has not publicly detailed an immediate overhaul. Still, many colleges are bracing for potential funding shifts, prompting budget adjustments and hiring freezes in some institutions.
What Is Project 2025? The Policy Blueprint Explained
Project 2025, a policy agenda crafted by the Heritage Foundation and some Trump-aligned groups, outlines a conservative restructuring of federal institutions, including education. Though Trump distanced himself from it during the campaign, several proposals align with his administration’s current discussions, such as:
| Project 2025 Proposal | Trump’s 2025 Actions (As of March 11) | Potential Impact on Colleges |
| Abolish Dept. of Education | Executive order rumored, but unconfirmed | Uncertainty in federal funding and oversight |
| Privatize student loans | Discussion on shifting loan management to Treasury | Possible higher costs for borrowers, reduced access |
| End PSLF (Public Service Loan Forgiveness) | Eligibility limits reportedly adjusted | Fewer incentives for public service careers |
Recently, on March 7, 2025, Trump reportedly tightened PSLF eligibility requirements, according to policy analysts on social media. However, no official White House confirmation has been issued yet.
Is FAFSA Going Away?
Many students are asking: Is Trump eliminating FAFSA? The short answer—no, but potential changes are being explored. FAFSA, tied to Title IV of the Higher Education Act, cannot be eliminated without congressional approval.
However, Trump’s team is reportedly discussing moving the Federal Student Aid office to another agency, such as the U.S. Treasury Department. If implemented, this could lead to delays in aid processing and administrative challenges, but not an outright elimination of student aid programs.
How Colleges Are Adapting to Trump’s Education Policies
Uncertainty surrounding funding has already led some universities, such as MIT and Stanford, to consider hiring freezes and budget adjustments. Additionally, Trump’s anti-DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) stance, a Project 2025 priority, is prompting colleges to reassess diversity initiatives.
Another major concern is research funding. Recently, a federal judge blocked a proposed Trump administration move to cut billions from agencies like the National Institutes of Health (NIH), but institutions remain cautious about future cuts.
What’s Next for Students and Colleges?
If Trump’s education agenda continues to follow Project 2025 principles, the private lending sector may expand, potentially leading to higher student loan interest rates. Pell Grants remain protected by Congress, but shifts in loan management could complicate access.
However, major overhauls face congressional opposition, particularly in the Senate, where 60 votes are required for significant legislative changes. Education Secretary Linda McMahon has emphasized continuity for core aid programs, according to recent statements tracked by education policy analysts.
The Bottom Line
As Trump’s 2025 education policies take shape, students and colleges must navigate uncertainty surrounding student loans, federal aid, and institutional funding. While some see potential for reduced bureaucracy, others fear greater financial burdens on students and fewer public service incentives.
How will Trump’s vision reshape higher education? Stay updated with the latest news from the U.S. Department of Education and CNN Politics as this story develops.
What’s your take on Trump’s education policies? Share your thoughts below!