Trump Proposes Cuts to Funding for Howard University and Other Programs

Washington, D.C. — President Donald Trump on May 2, 2025, proposed significant cuts to federal higher education spending, impacting Howard University, one of the nation’s leading historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). The proposed budget for fiscal year 2026 includes plans to eliminate key programs such as Federal Work-Study and the TRIO program.

The Trump administration aims to reduce the budget for the U.S. Department of Education by 15.3%, totaling approximately $163 billion in cuts across the federal government. In the budget document, the administration argues that current funding levels are unsustainable and that states should take over certain educational responsibilities.

Howard University has played a vital role in American education since its establishment in 1867, significantly contributing to social mobility and workforce development. The university’s leadership emphasizes the need to maintain funding levels similar to those of fiscal year 2025 to continue its mission.

In response to Trump’s budget proposal, U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon stated that it reflects a responsible transition of certain roles from federal to state levels. She contended that budget proposals are often subject to negotiation and might not pass as presented.

“The American people sent Republicans to Washington to lower costs and rein in wasteful government spending,” said Tim Walberg, chair of the House Committee on Education and Workforce, supporting the proposed spending cuts. He indicated that this budget reflects a blueprint for fulfilling that promise.

Among the most affected programs is Federal Work-Study, which helps students afford college through part-time employment. The proposed budget suggests reducing its funding by $980 million from the $1.2 billion allocated in fiscal 2024, proposing to transition its management to states and colleges.

The plan also calls for the complete elimination of Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, which assist low-income undergraduate students. The budget documents criticize the grants for allegedly contributing to rising college costs.

Additionally, programs like TRIO, which supports disadvantaged students from middle school through college, face elimination. Trump’s administration refers to these programs as outdated and claims that access to college is no longer a major barrier for low-income students.

Furthermore, Howard University is set to see a funding decrease of $64 million, a reduction intended to return its budget to levels from 2021. The administration argues that this approach would provide more sustainable support for the institution’s operations.

The budget proposal does not mention funding for Pell Grants, which is the largest federal student aid program. While Trump’s plan faces considerable challenges in Congress, some Republican lawmakers have already voiced their objections to certain cuts.