There was lot of federal action over the last week, and states are also responding to the massive changes facing higher ed.

Here’s a quick look at the most important stories shaping higher education and student finances this week for January 30, 2026.

Headlines at a Glance

• Lawmakers block proposed cuts to Pell Grants and campus support programs.
• Nevada colleges weigh tuition increases to close budget gaps.
• The Education Department launches a new push to overhaul accreditation.
• New York launches new student loan repayment assistance program.

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 child-care 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.

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.

Student advocates warn that higher tuition could discourage enrollment 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.

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.

Impact: Changes to accreditation rules could affect which colleges qualify for federal student loans and grants — increasing the importance of checking a school’s accreditation status before enrolling.

4. New York Launches New Student Loan Forgiveness Program

New York is launching a new student loan repayment assistance program called Health Care Access Loan Repayment (HEALR).

The HEALR program will provide significant financial incentives to health care 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:

• 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 

Impact: States have been expanding student loan forgiveness programs over the last several years as a way to recruit professionals into needed fields.