The Trump administration has announced a major reallocation of education funding, pledging nearly $500 million more to historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and tribal colleges.
While this move is being praised by some, it’s also sparked controversy as it comes with deep cuts to grant programs for other minority-serving institutions.
More Funding for HBCUs and Tribal Colleges
According to the U.S. Department of Education, this new funding will increase total investment in HBCUs to over $1.34 billion and raise support for tribal colleges to more than $108 million in 2025.
The administration says this step is part of its larger plan to focus on what it considers more effective educational investments.
UNCF (United Negro College Fund), a group that helps Black students with scholarships, welcomed this move. Lodriquez Murray, a senior VP at the organization, called the decision “a godsend” for HBCUs. The funds will be used for:
- Buying land and property
- Upgrading facilities and laboratories
- Supporting students and faculty
- Meeting other essential needs of the institutions
Charter Schools and Civics Education Also Get a Boost
In the same announcement, the Trump administration also revealed plans to give $500 million in grants to charter schools. Additionally, over $160 million will be invested in American history and civics education programs.
The decision was linked to a recent report showing a drop in academic performance in K–12 schools. The Department says the new funding will help improve student outcomes.
Cuts to Other Minority-Serving Institutions Spark Backlash
While HBCUs and tribal colleges are getting more funding, the administration has decided to withhold over $350 million in grants from other Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs). These include schools that serve:
- Hispanic students
- Alaska Natives and Hawaiian Natives
- Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders
- Other Black and minority student groups
The Department argues that giving grants based solely on the racial makeup of students is unconstitutional.
However, critics say this approach is unfair and harmful. Many education leaders believe that these cuts could make it harder for thousands of minority students to access higher education.
Education Experts Say Move Could Be Unlawful
Several experts and education advocates have expressed concern over the legality of the funding changes. Amanda Fuchs Miller, a former education official under President Biden, said that only Congress has the power to decide how federal funds should be used—not the Department of Education.
Deborah Santiago, head of Excelencia in Education, called it a “constitutional issue,” while Mamie Voight from the Institute for Higher Education Policy warned that it puts “one community against another.” She added that quick changes in grant programs could hurt both students and universities.
Trump’s Broader Goal: Redefining Federal Education Policy
This move aligns with President Trump’s larger plan to reduce the role of the Department of Education. In February, he told Education Secretary Linda McMahon that he wanted her to “put herself out of a job,” which would need Congress’ approval.
In his 2026 budget proposal, Trump is also calling for a 15% funding cut for the Department of Education, showing his intention to limit federal involvement in education policies.
At the same time, the administration continues to highlight its commitment to promoting “excellence” and “merit-based” funding. In April, Trump signed an executive order aiming to support innovation and success at HBCUs.
What This Means for Students and Colleges
For HBCUs and tribal colleges, the extra funding could mean better facilities, more scholarships, and stronger academic programs. But for other colleges that serve large numbers of Hispanic, Asian American, and Native American students, the cuts could be deeply damaging.
Universities that lose funding may be forced to make hard choices about what programs to keep, which services to cut, and how to support students with fewer resources.
The Trump administration’s new funding strategy is being seen as both a win and a loss. While historically underfunded HBCUs and tribal colleges are finally getting more support, other minority-serving institutions may face serious setbacks.
As debate continues over the fairness and legality of these changes, one thing is clear—students across the country will feel the impact in different ways.
