The landscape of higher education is constantly evolving, and with a change in administrations, we are witnessing significant shifts that will impact students, families, and institutions alike. At Foundry Admissions, we are committed to staying ahead of these changes, ensuring that our students are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of the college admissions process with confidence. By Friday, we will have attended workshops and debriefs with the National Association of College Admissions Counselors (NACAC), the International Association of College Admissions Counselors (IACAC), the Association of Independent Maryland & DC Schools (AIMS) as well as a special workgroup of 100 counselors from around the world shepherded by Mark Stucker of Your College Bound Kid. Here are some of the changes we are monitoring:
1. Cuts to NIH Funding and the Impact on Education
The recent removal of significant funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is having drastic consequences for graduate programs, particularly in the sciences and medical research fields. With fewer grants available, universities are being forced to restructure or eliminate entire programs and lay off staff, limiting opportunities for future researchers and graduate students. This shift is likely to reshape the landscape of graduate education and career pathways, which will very likely trickle down to the undergraduate levels.
2. Removal of DEI from College Campuses
Recent policies to curtail diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in higher education are reshaping campus policies nationwide. Some states and policymakers are pushing to defund or ban DEI offices, limit race-conscious admissions practices, and remove DEI-related curriculum requirements. These efforts could have significant impacts on campus climate, faculty hiring, and student support services. We are tracking these developments to help students understand how these changes might affect their college experiences and opportunities for an inclusive education.
3. Test-Optional and Holistic Admissions Trends
The test-optional movement, initially accelerated by the pandemic, continues to evolve. Some institutions are reinstating standardized test requirements, while others are doubling down on holistic admissions practices. This weeks’ “Dear Colleagues” letter from the Department of Education encouraged colleges to return to a test required landscape. While it is uncertain how schools will respond to this request, our team is actively analyzing these trends to provide students with tailored application strategies that align with the latest policies.
4. Changes in Financial Aid, Loan Repayment and Forgiveness Programs
This week, the administration announced the removal of income-driven repayment (IDR) plans, a move that will significantly impact borrowers who rely on these plans to manage student loan debt. Without IDR options, many graduates may face higher monthly payments and increased financial strain. We have also heard about (but can’t confirm) future plans to eliminate Parent Plus Loans and potentially raise the ceiling on student loan maximums. This topic is evolving rapidly and we will be watching the developments closely.
At Foundry Admissions, we recognize that these changes can feel overwhelming for students and families. That’s why we are committed to staying ahead of the curve, continuously educating ourselves, and providing expert guidance tailored to each student’s unique needs. Whether it’s deciphering financial aid updates, or adjusting application strategies, our goal is to make the college admissions journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. As higher education policies continue to shift, we are here to ensure that you are not only informed but also empowered to make the best choices for your future. Stay connected with us for ongoing updates, and let’s navigate this ever-changing landscape together.
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