Columbia University Faces Accreditation Threat Amid Federal Scrutiny

NEW YORK — June 5, 2025 the Trump administration escalated its confrontation with Columbia University by notifying its accreditor, the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, of alleged violations of federal anti-discrimination laws. This move could jeopardize Columbia's accreditation status, which is essential for maintaining eligibility for federal student loans and grants. [

Education Secretary Linda McMahon emphasized the critical role of accreditors as gatekeepers of federal student aid, stating that institutions failing to meet established standards should face appropriate consequences. The Department of Education's action follows a series of disputes between the Trump administration and Columbia University, including previous threats to withdraw federal funding and increased scrutiny over the university's policies.

Columbia University has not publicly responded to the latest allegations. However, the Middle States Commission confirmed receipt of the notification but declined to comment further. The potential loss of accreditation poses significant risks to Columbia's operations, particularly concerning federal financial aid access for its students.

This development is part of a broader pattern of the Trump administration's confrontations with higher education institutions, notably those perceived as opposing its policies. Earlier actions included restricting foreign student visas at Harvard University and proposing substantial cuts to federal funding for tribal colleges.

The situation at Columbia underscores the administration's willingness to leverage federal oversight mechanisms in its disputes with academic institutions, raising concerns about academic freedom and the politicization of education policy.

*Sources:
*https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/04/us/columbia-university-accreditation-antidiscrimination