There has been a lot of federal action over the past week, and states are also responding to the massive changes facing higher education.
Here’s a quick look at the most important stories shaping higher education and student finances this week on January 30, 2026.
🎓 Top headlines at a glance
- Lawmakers are blocking proposed cuts to Pell Grants and campus support programs.
- Nevada colleges are considering tuition increases to fill budget gaps.
- The Ministry of Education launches a new campaign to reform accreditation.
- New York is launching a new program to help pay off student loans.
1. Lawmakers reject proposed cuts in student grants and aid
A bipartisan group of House governors Move to block proposed cuts to higher education (PDF), maintaining the current maximum Pell Grant awards and maintaining funding for programs such as TRIO, GEAR UP, federal work-study, and campus child care initiatives. Funding for institutions serving minorities, including black colleges, was also protected.
The move contrasts sharply with White House budget proposals that would have cut or eliminated many college admissions 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.
2. Nevada public colleges face significant tuition increases
Public colleges in Nevada Her tuition fees will rise for up to 12% at four-year institutions and 9% in two-year colleges They face persistent budget deficits. College leaders say the increases may be necessary to maintain academic programs, staff and student services.
Student advocates warn that higher tuition could discourage enrollment or increase borrowing at a time when federal loan limits are tightening.
➡️ impact: Tuition increases at public institutions directly impact affordability, especially for in-state students who rely on low sticker prices to keep borrowing low.
3. The Ministry of Education launches an accreditation reform committee
The US Department of Education announced the formation of a new body Accreditation, Innovation and Modernization Committee (AIM).signaling a renewed focus on reshaping how colleges are accredited.
Accreditation determines whether institutions have access to federal student aid. Officials say the effort will examine recognition standards, oversight processes, and how student outcomes influence accreditation decisions.
➡️ impact: Changes in accreditation rules can affect which colleges qualify for federal student loans and grants — making it even more important to check a school’s accreditation status before enrolling.
4. New York launches new student loan forgiveness program
New York is Launching a new program to help repay student loans It’s called the Health Access Loan Repayment (HEALR).
The HEALR program will provide significant financial incentives to health care professionals who commit to serving high-needs populations, addressing critical workforce shortages while reducing barriers to essential health services in underserved communities.
The maximum loan repayment bonuses per address are as follows:
- Psychiatrists: Up to $300,000 per winner
- Dentists and primary care doctors: up to $100,000 per winner
- Nurse Practitioners and Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialists: Up to $50,000 per winner
➡️ impact: States have expanded student loan forgiveness programs over the past few years as a way to recruit professionals in in-demand fields.
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