Higher Ed. Dive
June 08, 2026 Enrollment Management Trends, Student Success
Growth in international enrollment in the U.S. has slowed after rebounding following the pandemic. College officials are now concerned that loss of momentum will deteriorate further under the current administration. In the year following President Trump’s return to the White House, the U.S. Department of State revoked some 8,000 student visas as part of a broader federal crackdown on immigration. Rapidly changing student visa policies and conflicting messaging have bred uncertainty for foreign students, potentially constricting the international pipeline further.
Chronicle
May 27, 2026 Enrollment Management Trends, Student Success
The Trump administration unexpectedly announced it would require most foreigners seeking green cards to leave the United States to apply for residency. The new policy mandates that people submit applications for legal permanent residency to American consulates in their home countries, “except in extraordinary circumstances,” rather than remain in the United States while the process is pending. The guidance affects visa holders generally, but it could have an impact on international students and scholars seeking to change their visa status to stay on in the United States. The change would effectively lock out applicants from countries subject to travel bans or where visa issuances are paused, such as Iran and Nigeria. It also could exacerbate existing backlogs in processing temporary work authorizations.
University Business
May 05, 2026 Pre-College Outreach, Student Success
University and K-12 systems have encouraged the development of a collaborative model between the two, aimed to better align our K-12/collegiate education offerings with the evolving workforce needs. This new model prioritizes hands-on learning, and the development of career pathways aimed at ensuring students feel equipped with practical and transferable workforce skills. With an increased introduction of credential programs such as apprenticeships and dual enrollments, students will be able to gain work experience while completing their studies. These efforts rise as an intentional move towards closing skills gaps, increasing education equity, and promoting the efficient transition between education, employment and the rapidly changing economy.
Higher Ed Drive - Dive Brief
March 03, 2026 Student Success, Value and Affordability
The U.S. The Department of Education has proposed narrowing the definition of ‘professional’ students under the implementation of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (OBBBA). This proposal would limit higher federal loan caps to eleven specific fields. Under this proposal, students enrolled under the eleven ‘professional’ fields may borrow up to $50,000 annually, while any other student will be capped at $20,500. With Grad PLUS loans being eliminated effective July 1, 2026, institutions may see a shift in student demographics as those from lower-income backgrounds are forced toward riskier private loans or out of graduate education entirely. Higher education institutions and associations are actively advocating for its reconsideration.
Higher Ed Drive
January 29, 2026 Admissions, Student Success, Value and Affordability
Policy changes across the higher education landscape are expected to continue this year, affecting operations and students. Institutions will be under intensified accreditation pressure from the federal government, potentially reshaping accreditation regulations. Ongoing Title IV investigations by the administration continue to expand. Over 2,600 federal research grants are cancelled or suspended, though funding priorities of the administration have begun to emerge. Additionally, in-state tuition rates for undocumented students have ended via executive order.
University Business
January 15, 2026 Enrollment Management Trends, Student Success
Over the past year, total enrollment for postsecondary education increased by 1%, though international graduate student enrollment decreased nearly 6%. Although international undergraduate student enrollment continues to grow, it does so at a rate nearly 5% lower than in previous years. Additionally, enrollment patterns have recently shifted by sector and degree offerings.
Higher Ed Drive
December 08, 2025 Student Success, Value and Affordability
The Education Department is raising awareness regarding what they deem to be ”low return” institutions by introducing a new feature that alerts first time FAFSA applicants if they have selected institutions whose graduates, on average, earn less than those with high school diplomas. The warning is for informational purposes and bears no impact on the FAFSA application process or eligibility determination. This initiative, live as of December 8, aims to make the college decision process more transparent as it relates to potential post-secondary outcomes.
Higher Ed Drive
November 11, 2025 Student Success, Value and Affordability
A new $100,000 fee for H-1B visa requests has been introduced by the current administration. This increase is substantial, as previously fees ranged from $2,000 – $5,000. Many higher education institutions across the nation rely on this community of visa holders, as H-1B visa holders are often hired to lead in research. This new established fee is applicable to new petitioners from outside of the United States. Higher education institutions have challenged this new regulation, advocating for policy changes and exemptions. Although no changes have stemmed from these actions, universities are advised to explore alternative visa options and continue advocating about the impact of this policy on education and overall economy.
Higher Ed Drive
October 25, 2025 Student Success, Value and Affordability
A recent study from the University of Arkansas found only 9 of the 1,584 U.S. colleges could be classified as “equity engines”. This classification applies to institutions where at least 34% of students receive Pell Grants, and among those, 55% graduate within six years. The exclusivity of U.S. colleges leaves many low-income students lacking equitable access to college. The study recommends expanded investment in colleges that may be close to fulfilling the established “equity engine” qualifications. Institutions more generally must also be willing to undergo institutional changes that embrace shared and equitable learning opportunities.
Inside Higher Ed
October 07, 2025 Student Success, Value and Affordability
College students often underestimate the cost of attending college. Only about 27% of students claim to fully understand the expenses and costs associated with tuition, housing, and other fees. Students share that these costs and other unanticipated costs could impact their active enrollment at collegiate institutions. Although institutions can often offer emergency aid and other financial support to students, many are unaware of these resources. The survey in this article highlights the current disconnect between available institutional support efforts and student knowledge and awareness. Cost transparency and improved communication efforts can assist with student retention related to financial matters.