Trump Cuts Federal Funds to Harvard University

Level: Beginner • Date: April 16, 2025

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Big Change for a Big School

This week, President Donald Trump announced that his administration would freeze over $2.3 billion in federal funds to Harvard University, including major grants for science research, academic programs, and financial aid.

Trump said the action was taken in response to what he described as Harvard’s ongoing “political bias” and promotion of “woke culture.” In a statement quoted by The Guardian, he said, “Harvard has a $50 billion endowment. They don’t need taxpayer dollars to push radical agendas.” He argued that the university should rely on its own vast financial resources—Harvard’s endowment is one of the largest in the world—rather than taxpayer money.

What This Means

Federal funds often support important research, financial aid, and academic programs. If the freeze continues, it could impact jobs, research projects, and student services at Harvard. This move may also affect how other universities approach federal partnerships.

The decision has triggered strong reactions. Supporters say it’s time to hold elite institutions accountable for perceived political agendas. Critics warn it sets a dangerous precedent, where political leaders use funding to control education.

What’s Next?

The legality of the freeze is being challenged, and lawsuits are expected. Some members of Congress have also expressed concern and may take steps to push back.

This story is a clear example of how deeply connected politics and education have become—and why staying informed matters now more than ever.

Vocabulary Builder

Federal funds (n.) – money given by the U.S. government.
Example: The school received federal funds for its science lab.
Political bias (n.) – support for one political view over others.
Example: Some say the news has political bias.
Woke (adj.) – aware of social justice, often used as a criticism.
Example: The speaker was criticized for being “too woke.”
Taxpayer (n.) – someone who pays taxes.
Example: Taxpayers want to know where their money goes.
Endowment (n.) – money saved by a school or organization.
Example: Harvard has a large endowment.
Debate (n.) – a discussion with different opinions.
Example: The new law caused public debate.
Unfair (adj.) – not right or equal.
Example: Cutting the program felt unfair to many.
Punish (v.) – to make someone suffer for doing something wrong.
Example: He was punished for breaking the rules.
Block (v.) – to stop something from happening.
Example: The court blocked the new rule.
Stay informed (v.) – to keep learning about current events.
Example: I read the news to stay informed.

Discussion Questions: About the Article

What do you think about Trump’s plan?
Why might federal funds be important for universities?
Do you think politics should affect education?
What could happen to students if schools lose money?
What do you think the courts will decide?

Discussion Questions: On the Topic

Do universities in your country get government money?
Should rich schools use their own money first?
How can politics change education in your country?
What do you think makes a school fair or unfair?
Should students care about national politics?

Idiom of the Day: “Make waves”

Meaning: To cause a strong reaction or big change.
How it applies: Trump’s plan made waves in the world of education and politics.

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This article was inspired by reporting from the Associated Press , The Guardian, Al Jazeera, and Business Insider .

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