Earlier this month, the Trump administration extended an unprecedented offer to nine prestigious universities, proposing a set of conditions aimed at reshaping higher education in the United States. The proposal, often referred to as a “compact,” demanded that these institutions adopt stricter ideological and operational standards. Specifically, universities were asked to increase conservative representation, eliminate units that allegedly promote hostility toward conservative ideas, relinquish control over admissions and hiring processes, adopt biological definitions of sex and gender, freeze tuition fees for five years, restrict student protests, and maintain institutional neutrality on current events.

In exchange, participating universities would avoid losing access to vital federal benefits, including research grants, student loans, federal contracts, and visas for students and faculty. The administration also promised that those who agreed could access “substantial and meaningful federal grants,” creating a financial incentive for compliance.

However, opposition to the proposal has been swift and firm. As the October 20 deadline looms, only five of the nine targeted institutions initially indicated their willingness to consider the agreement. Notably, four prominent universities — the University of Pennsylvania, Brown University, the University of Southern California, and MIT — have publicly announced that they will not sign the compact, citing concerns over academic freedom, institutional independence, and the implications of the conditions.

Furthermore, the American Council on Education (ACE), representing more than 1,600 colleges and universities nationwide, issued a statement urging the complete withdrawal of the proposal. The ACE emphasized the importance of maintaining academic autonomy and warned against policies that could undermine the core principles of higher education.

This development marks a significant stand by leading academic institutions against a federal initiative that many see as an attempt to influence university policies and culture. As debates continue, the broader higher education community is closely watching whether more institutions will oppose or accept the proposed “compact,” which has ignited discussions about academic freedom, institutional independence, and the future direction of American higher education.

Ethan Cole

I'm Ethan Cole, a tech journalist with a passion for uncovering the stories behind innovation. I write about emerging technologies, startups, and the digital trends shaping our future. Read me on x.com