As financial aid leaders track the federal financial aid changes moving through Congress, the emergence of different House and Senate proposals might seem to complicate planning. But there’s a strategic silver lining: by focusing on the common ground between both versions, you can prepare efficiently for the changes most likely...
Following the House of Representatives’ passage of the wide-ranging reconciliation bill—dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill”—on May 22, 2025, attention now turns to the Senate. The legislation includes proposed changes to federal tax structures, healthcare, and higher education policy and was advanced through the budget reconciliation process, allowing it to...
The U.S. Department of Education has launched a new negotiated rulemaking process to revise Title IV regulations, aiming to simplify federal student aid programs and strengthen institutional accountability. Colleges and universities should be aware of the proposed changes and prepare for their potential impact. What it means for your institution and...
In early March, I joined over 100 career education leaders in Washington, D.C. for CECU’s annual Washington Briefing and Advocacy Day. Held at the Capitol Hill Club, the event offered a timely look at the future of higher education policy, with robust participation from members of Congress, policy experts, and...
In a troubling development for America’s 43 million student loan borrowers, delinquency rates have doubled since the pandemic payment pause ended, leaving millions at risk for severe financial consequences. Here’s what you need to know about this growing crisis. The Shocking Numbers Behind the Student Loan Delinquency Surge According to a recent...
For those of us invested in the future of higher education, the past few years have been anything but predictable. From shifting federal policies to mounting student loan concerns, institutions are navigating a landscape that’s constantly evolving. That’s why gathering in Washington, D.C., for CSPEN’s 7th Annual Higher Education Policy Meeting...
The U.S. Department of Education’s (ED) recent Dear Colleague Letter (GEN-24-11) offers critical guidance on the treatment of long-term debt and property, plant, and equipment (PP&E) in calculating an institution’s composite score for financial responsibility under Title IV. This update replaces the 2020 Electronic Announcement (except LTD Q&A 10) and...
Understanding Gainful Employment Reporting Requirements: An Overview Gainful Employment (GE) reporting requirements have been a focal point of compliance challenges for postsecondary institutions since their introduction by the Department of Education (ED) in 2010. This is especially the case for those offering vocational and career-oriented programs. This article will delve into...