There was a lot of federal action over the last week, and states are also responding to the massive changes facing higher ed. This Week In College And Money News
Here’s a quick look at the most important stories shaping higher education and student finances this week for January 30, 2026.
1. Lawmakers Reject Proposed Cuts to Pell Grants and Student Aid
A bipartisan group of House appropriators moved to block proposed cuts to higher-education (PDF File) funding, preserving the current maximum Pell Grant and maintaining funding for programs such as TRIO, GEAR UP, Federal Work Study, and campus childcare initiatives. Funding for minority-serving institutions, including HBCUs, was also protected.
The move contrasts sharply with White House budget proposals that would have reduced or eliminated several college access programs.
➡️ Impact: Pell Grants remain the foundation of college affordability for low-income students. Keeping aid levels stable helps families plan, even as broader student loan rules continue to change. This Week In College And Money News
2. Nevada Public Colleges Face Large Tuition Increases
Public colleges in Nevada are going to have tuition hikes of up to 12% at four-year institutions and 9% at two-year colleges as they face persistent budget shortfalls. College leaders say the increases may be needed to maintain academic programs, staffing, and student services. This Week In College And Money News
Student advocates warn that higher tuition could discourage enrolment or increase borrowing at a time when federal loan limits are tightening.
➡️ Impact: Tuition hikes at public institutions directly affect affordability, especially for in-state students who rely on lower sticker prices to keep borrowing down.
3. Education Department Launches Accreditation Reform Committee
The U.S. Department of Education announced the formation of a new Accreditation, Innovation, and Modernization (AIM) committee, signaling renewed focus on reshaping how colleges are accredited. This Week In College And Money News
Accreditation determines whether institutions can access federal student aid. Officials say the effort will examine recognition standards, oversight processes, and how student outcomes factor into accreditation decisions. This Week In College And Money News
The HEALR program will provide significant financial incentives to healthcare professionals who commit to serving high-need populations, addressing critical workforce shortages while reducing barriers to essential health services in underserved communities.
Maximum loan repayment awards for each title are as follows: This Week In College And Money News
- Psychiatrists: up to $300,000 per awardee
- Dentists and Primary Care Physicians: up to $100,000 per awardee
- Nurse Practitioners and Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialists: up to $50,000 per awardee