Advocates Warn of Reduced College Access in Trump Administration's Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Proposal

The Institute for College Access & Success (TICAS) issued a statement on Monday regarding President Donald Trump's proposed federal budget for Fiscal Year 2027. TICAS stated that the budget request would eliminate or sharply reduce funding for several college access and student support programs.

These programs include TRIO, GEAR UP, Federal Work-Study, and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG).

The targeted programs assist low-income, first-generation, and underrepresented students in accessing college and covering costs beyond tuition. TRIO and GEAR UP help students from disadvantaged backgrounds prepare for and complete college. FSEOG provides grants to eligible students, while Federal Work-Study supports part-time employment to help pay for college.

TICAS noted that the proposal maintains the maximum Pell Grant award at its current level. U.S. Department of Education. The budget also signals a long-term goal of placing the department on a path to elimination, though Congress would decide on any such action.

The White House has described the budget as part of an effort to reduce domestic spending and refocus federal priorities.

It argues that some student aid and campus-based grant programs are less targeted than Pell Grants and allow institutions too much discretion in fund use. The administration aims to shift more responsibility for student support to states and institutions.

Education Secretary Linda McMahon stated that the budget reflects funding levels for an agency winding down and delegating functions to other entities.

The proposal seeks to improve government efficiency by curbing non-defense discretionary spending.

stated that the cuts could make it harder for low-income and first-generation students to enroll, stay enrolled, or complete degrees, even with Pell Grants intact.