Education Dept. Probes Scholarships for Undocumented Students

The U.S. Department of Education is investigating five universities—University of Michigan, Western Michigan University, University of Louisville, University of Nebraska Omaha, and University of Miami—for offering scholarships to undocumented and DACA students, following complaints these programs discriminate against American-born students based on national origin. The complaints, filed by the conservative Equal Protection Project, allege that restricting eligibility for these scholarships violates Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Some of the scholarships in question provide essential financial support to undocumented students who cannot access federal aid. Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor emphasized that federal law prohibits universities from denying scholarships to U.S.-born students due to their birthplace. The investigations are part of a broader Trump administration effort challenging diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in higher education. University officials have acknowledged the investigations but have mostly declined to comment.