Edith Hejberg
Back in March 2025, the Trump administration froze $400 million in federal funding to Columbia, citing unchecked antisemitism on campus.
Columbia University has agreed to pay a $200 million fine after the Trump administration accused it of failing to prevent harassment of Jewish students. The move follows months of tension between the Ivy League school and federal authorities.
Trump Administration Froze $400M in Funding
Back in March 2025, the Trump administration froze $400 million in federal funding to Columbia, citing unchecked antisemitism on campus. The pressure campaign aimed to force institutional accountability and policy reform.
Settlement Clears Path to Restore Federal Support
As part of the deal, the majority of frozen funds will now be reinstated. Columbia will regain access to billions in current and future federal grants, according to a university statement released after the agreement.
Disciplinary Actions Follow Pro-Palestinian Protests
The settlement came just one day after Columbia disciplined several students for pro-Palestinian demonstrations. Among them was Mahmoud Khalil, a student activist who was detained for over 100 days after losing his visa.
Harvard Also Targeted by Trump Administration
Columbia isn’t alone. Harvard University is facing similar accusations and has had $2.6 billion in federal funds frozen. However, unlike Columbia, Harvard is pushing back through legal action.
Legal Battle Over Academic Autonomy Begins
Harvard has filed a lawsuit accusing the Trump administration of using funding as leverage to influence academic decisions. The outcome could set a major precedent for how universities interact with federal power.
A Turning Point for Campus Free Speech?
The Columbia case may reshape how universities handle activism, speech, and discrimination claims. With large sums of money at stake, higher education institutions across the U.S. are watching closely.
