Report on the Impact of Proposed Federal Student Aid Legislation on Access to Higher Education

Introduction

On June 26, 2025, concerns were raised by the University of Mount Saint Vincent (UMSV) regarding pending federal legislation known as the One Big, Beautiful Bill. This bill, currently under consideration by Congress, proposes significant changes to federal student aid programs that are critical for students and families striving to access and afford higher education. The potential implications of this legislation directly relate to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 1 (No Poverty), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

Key Concerns Regarding the Proposed Legislation

The One Big, Beautiful Bill aims to reduce student loan debt and increase accountability. However, UMSV highlights several provisions that may inadvertently restrict access to higher education for the most vulnerable populations. The following student aid programs are at risk:

1. Graduate PLUS Loans: These loans assist graduate students in covering essential living expenses such as housing, food, and clothing. The bill proposes eliminating these loans, which could severely impact graduate student support.
2. Borrowing Limits on Graduate PLUS Loans: Proposed reductions in borrowing limits and lifetime caps could hinder students’ ability to plan financially for their education.
3. Parent PLUS Loans: Introduction of per-child borrowing limits may reduce financial support available to families funding their children’s education.
4. Subsidized Federal Loans: The elimination of these loans, which do not accrue interest while students are enrolled, could increase the financial burden on students.
5. Pell Grant Eligibility: Restrictions on eligibility would limit access to vital financial aid for students with the greatest need, undermining efforts to promote equitable education.

UMSV’s Commitment to Sustainable Development Goals

For nearly 200 years, UMSV has championed expanded access to education as a catalyst for social and economic mobility, aligning with the following SDGs:

• SDG 4 – Quality Education: UMSV’s mission fosters inclusive and equitable quality education and promotes lifelong learning opportunities.
• SDG 1 – No Poverty: By supporting student aid programs, UMSV helps reduce poverty through education-driven economic empowerment.
• SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities: The institution’s values-driven and inclusive approach addresses disparities in access to higher education.

The proposed legislation threatens to reverse progress toward these goals by limiting educational opportunities for marginalized and low-income students.

Call to Action

UMSV urges stakeholders to take immediate action to protect student aid and uphold the principles of equitable access to education. Recommended steps include:

• Contacting Elected Representatives: Students, families, faculty, staff, board members, and community supporters should communicate their concerns to lawmakers, emphasizing that higher education must remain accessible and affordable.
• Advocating for Reforms that Expand Support: Encourage policymakers to enact reforms that open doors to student aid rather than restrict them.

UMSV emphasizes the importance of collective advocacy to ensure that college remains a reachable goal for all students, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to SDG 4 and related objectives.

Conclusion

The University of Mount Saint Vincent stands firmly against any legislative measures that would limit access to higher education and undermine the progress made toward inclusive and affordable education. Upholding the values inspired by Saints Vincent de Paul and Elizabeth Ann Seton, UMSV continues to promote human dignity and social responsibility through education. Protecting student aid is essential to sustaining these commitments and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.

About the University of Mount Saint Vincent

Founded in 1847 by the Sisters of Charity, the University of Mount Saint Vincent offers a nationally recognized liberal arts education alongside select professional programs. Located on a historic campus overlooking the Hudson River, UMSV is dedicated to educating the whole person and leveraging the rich cultural and educational resources of New York City. The University equips students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary for achievement, professional success, and leadership in the 21st century, thereby contributing to the realization of multiple Sustainable Development Goals.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 4: Quality Education – The article focuses on access to higher education, student aid, and affordability, which are central to ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education.
2. SDG 1: No Poverty – By discussing financial aid and support for students from low-income families, the article connects to efforts to reduce poverty and economic barriers to education.
3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – The emphasis on protecting access to education for those who need it most relates to reducing inequalities within and among countries.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs

1. SDG 4 Targets:
   • Target 4.3: Ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable and quality technical, vocational and tertiary education, including university.
   • Target 4.5: Eliminate gender disparities and ensure equal access to all levels of education and vocational training for vulnerable populations.
2. SDG 1 Targets:
   • Target 1.4: Ensure that all men and women have equal rights to economic resources, including access to basic services and financial aid.
3. SDG 10 Targets:
   • Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Indicator 4.3.1: Participation rate of youth and adults in formal and non-formal education and training in the previous 12 months – implied through concerns about access to student aid affecting enrollment.
2. Indicator 4.5.1: Parity indices (female/male, rural/urban, bottom/top wealth quintile and others) for all education indicators – implied by the focus on equitable access for vulnerable students.
3. Indicator 1.4.1: Proportion of population living in households with access to basic services and financial support – implied by the discussion on Pell Grants and federal loan subsidies.
4. Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50% of median income, by age, sex and persons with disabilities – indirectly related to the article’s focus on economic inclusion through education.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: mountsaintvincent.edu