SCOOP: Trump Admin Intensifies Pressure on Columbia University as Education Department Questions Accreditation
Columbia University faces federal funding threat after accrediting body flags compliance issues.
The Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights has formally notified the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) that Columbia University is currently failing to meet accreditation standards, raising serious concerns about the Ivy League institution’s future eligibility for federal financial aid programs.
This notice represents a significant escalation in the federal government’s scrutiny of Columbia, stemming from an investigation into the university’s handling of antisemitism on campus. Institutions must maintain accreditation from a recognized body like MSCHE in order to qualify for vital federal funds, including Pell Grants and student loans. If Columbia loses its accredited status, thousands of students could lose access to essential financial support.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon emphasized the importance of accreditors acting as gatekeepers for federal funds. “University accreditors have an obligation to ensure member institutions abide by their standards,” she said, highlighting the dual responsibility between government and accrediting agencies to uphold both academic quality and federal antidiscrimination law. The Department expects ongoing updates from MSCHE as it reviews Columbia’s compliance with these requirements.
The investigation into Columbia began in February, following reports of alleged antisemitic harassment on campus. In a decisive move, the federal government announced the cancellation of $400 million in federal grants over what officials described as a “failure to protect Jewish students.” This unprecedented action placed immense pressure on Columbia’s administration to respond swiftly and substantively.
In response, Columbia initiated a series of reforms, including overhauling campus protest and safety protocols, reorganizing its Middle Eastern studies department, and adopting a new, campus-wide definition of antisemitism. Despite these steps, the Department of Education determined that more needs to be done to bring the university into compliance with accreditation and civil rights standards.
The financial impact of the revoked grants is already being felt across the university. Last month, Columbia announced plans to lay off approximately 180 staff members, a move that acting President Claire Shipman linked directly to the loss of federal funding. “This represents about 20% of the individuals who are funded in some manner by the terminated grants,” Shipman said. She also warned of further austerity measures in the months ahead as the university grapples with significant uncertainty and seeks to stabilize its finances.
The situation remains fluid, with the possibility of more sweeping changes at Columbia if it cannot regain its accreditation standing. The outcome will not only affect the university’s reputation and finances but also carry potential ramifications for students, faculty, and the broader higher education landscape nationwide.
