Columbia University’s accrediting body has been notified by the Trump administration that the Ivy League school is failing to meet standards for receiving federal funds. This notice, sent by the Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights, marks the latest escalation in the administration’s efforts to hold Columbia accountable for failing to address antisemitism on its campus. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), which provides accreditation for Columbia, has been informed that the university is currently falling short of its accreditation standards. MSCHE is one of several accreditors recognized by the Department of Education, ensuring that member institutions maintain quality education and adhere to academic integrity and institutional effectiveness standards.
The notice to MSCHE underscores the administration’s commitment to upholding federal antidiscrimination laws and ensuring compliance with educational standards. Education Secretary Linda McMahon emphasized that accreditors have a significant public responsibility as gatekeepers of federal student aid, determining which institutions are eligible for federal loans and grants. The administration maintains that it has an obligation to prevent institutions from violating these laws, and it expects the MSCHE to keep the Department fully informed of actions taken to ensure Columbia’s compliance with accreditation standards.
The Trump administration’s scrutiny of Columbia is part of a broader effort to address antisemitism on campuses, following a previous decision to cancel $400 million in federal grants over the university’s alleged failure to protect Jewish students from antisemitic harassment. This decision was made after an investigation into Columbia, which found that the university was not adequately addressing antisemitism. In response, Columbia implemented various changes, including overhauling its policies on protests, safety, and security, reorganizing its Middle Eastern studies department, and adopting a new campus-wide definition of antisemitism. These changes were intended to demonstrate the university’s commitment to addressing the issue and meeting the administration’s requirements.
However, these efforts have come at a financial cost. Last month, Columbia announced the layoff of approximately 180 staff members as a result of the loss of federal grants. Acting President Claire Shipman explained that the university had to make difficult choices to preserve its financial flexibility, with nearly 20% of the individuals funded by the terminated grants now facing non-renewal or termination of their employment. Shipman acknowledged the challenges faced by higher education institutions in navigating the current climate, noting that the university is attempting to manage these issues with precision, even if the process is imperfect.
While Columbia has not yet responded to further inquiries from Fox News Digital, the situation highlights the complex relationship between federal oversight, institutional responsibility, and the financial impact on universities. The administration’s actions raise questions about the balance between ensuring educational standards and addressing issues of discrimination on campuses. As the situation continues to unfold, the effects on Columbia’s operations, its students, and its financial stability remain significant concerns.