WASHINGTON — U.S. colleges, universities and higher education associations stepped up advocacy efforts over federal budget and grant policies in July, urging lawmakers and the Trump administration to preserve research funding, student aid and long-standing merit-based grant review practices as Congress continued work on fiscal appropriations and the administration advanced proposed changes to federal grant regulations.
A coalition of universities and research organizations submitted formal comments calling on the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to withdraw proposed revisions to the federal government's Uniform Guidance regulations governing financial assistance. The groups argued the proposal would significantly alter the administration of federal grants by expanding the role of political appointees in funding decisions and reducing the influence of expert peer review.
The American Council on Education (ACE), which represents colleges and universities across the United States, said its government relations team continued engaging with congressional offices throughout the appropriations process, focusing on funding for student financial aid, scientific research and institutional support programs. ACE also coordinated comments urging the administration to reconsider the proposed grant rule.
The Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) said it was working with Congress and member institutions on fiscal year 2027 appropriations requests while analyzing the administration's budget proposals. The organization said its advocacy priorities include sustaining federal investments in research universities and student aid programs.
Several universities also submitted institution-specific responses. Georgetown University said proposed grant regulations could affect federally funded research and expressed concern that changes involving peer review, research outcomes and international collaboration could hinder its academic mission while supporting accountability in grants management.
The administration has said the proposed revisions are intended to improve transparency, accountability and oversight of federal financial assistance. Critics, including research universities, scientific organizations and industry groups, contend the changes could politicize grant-making and create uncertainty for federally funded research programs. More than 90,000 public comments had been submitted during the rulemaking process, according to reports on the proposal.
The debate comes as higher education institutions continue broader engagement with federal policymakers on appropriations, research reimbursement, student financial aid and other education priorities. Universities and sector organizations have organized meetings with members of Congress and expanded advocacy efforts as lawmakers consider funding legislation for the coming fiscal year.
As of July 14, the proposed OMB rule remained under review following the public comment period, while Congress continued deliberations on federal spending measures affecting higher education and research programs.
