The HBCU Campaign Fund (HCF) expresses deep concern regarding provisions within the proposed FY27 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education (Labor-HHS-Education) Appropriations Act that would eliminate subsidized federal student loans, reduce support for Federal Work-Study and make cuts to other vital student assistance programs.

For decades, these federal investments have helped millions of student access, afford, and complete a college education. The proposed elimination of subsidized student loans would require students to accrue interest while enrolled in school, increasing the overall cost of obtaining a degree. Likewise, reductions to Federal Work-Study programs would limit opportunities for students to earn income, gain professional experience, and offset educational expenses while pursuing their academic goals.

The impact of these changes would be especially significant for students attending HBCUs, MSIs, community colleges, and public institutions, where many students rely on federal aid to bridge financial gaps. The proposal would substantially reshape federal support for MSIs, providing $508.3 million for Aid for Institution Development programs under Title II and Title V. As the costs of tuition, housing, transportation, and other necessities continue to rise, reductions to student support programs could force many students to take on additional debt, delay enrollment, reduce course loads, or leave college altogether.

“Higher education should be a pathway to opportunity, not a privilege reserved for those who can afford it. The elimination of subsidized student loans and reductions to programs such as Federal Work-Study would create additional barriers for students who are already working tirelessly to achieve their educational dreams. These proposed cuts threaten not only college affordability, but also student persistence, degree completion, workforce development, and our nation’s long-term economic competitiveness.”

— Demetrius Johnson, Jr., Founder, President & CEO, HCF

HCF believes that investments in students are investments in the future of our communities, institutions, and workforce. The organization urges Congress and federal policymakers to protect and strengthen programs that promote educational access, affordability, and student success.

HCF will continue its mission of advocating for students, HBCUs, MSIs, and institutions of higher learning while championing policies that promote educational equity, economic mobility, and opportunity for all.

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About the HBCU Campaign Fund
The HBCU Campaign Fund (HCF) is an educational non-profit and advocacy organization dedicated to supporting HBCUs and MSIs. Founded in 2012, its core mission focuses on raising funds for student scholarships, developing campus programming, and advocating for higher education equity. For more information, visit www.hbcucampaignfund.org.