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Higher Education Act

The Higher Education Act (HEA) is a federal law that governs the administration of federal higher education programs. Its purpose is to strengthen the educational resources of our colleges and universities and to provide financial assistance for students in postsecondary and higher education.

First passed in 1965 to ensure that every individual has access to higher education, regardless of income or zip code, the HEA governs student-aid programs, federal aid to colleges, and oversight of teacher preparation programs. It is generally scheduled for reauthorization by Congress every five years to encourage growth and change.

The HEA has been reauthorized in 1968, 1972, 1976, 1980, 1986, 1992, 1998, and 2008. Current authorization for the programs in the Higher Education Act expired at the end of 2013, but has been extended while Congress prepares changes and amendments.
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Latest Actions

Efforts to update the Higher Education Act have stalled after the COVID-19 pandemic and a lack of cooperation. While efforts were made in the 118th Congress to include aspects of the Higher Education Reauthorization Act in education bills, including the and the , these bills failed to gain support and did not pass on the House floor. 

What is the Higher Education Act?

 

The Higher Education Act governs the administration of higher education programs. Below are the titles of the Higher Education Act, along with a brief summary of each title.  

  • Title I- Outlines general provisions and definitions for the Higher Education Act, including costs, funding, provisions, and requirements
  • Title II- Authorizes grants to improve the quality of teacher education programs and recruitment initiatives.
  • Title III- Provides programs, support, and provisions for developing institutions that serve low-income and minority students.
  • Title IV- Authorizes student assistance programs like scholarships, work-study programs, and low-interest loans.
  • Title V- Authorizes provisions and grants to assist developing institutions and Hispanic-Serving Institutions.
  • Title VI- Authorizes international education programs to improve undergraduate studies.
  • Title VII- Authorizes grants for improved education and community service programs to foster innovation in postsecondary education.
  • Title VIII- Enables other programs that support higher education.
  • Title IX- Prohibits sex-based discrimination in any education program or activity that recieves federal funds.

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