US Study Abroad Secures Key Victory Against Proposed Federal Funding Cuts
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The United States has taken a decisive step in safeguarding its federal funding for international educational and cultural exchange programmes, following fears of deep budget cuts proposed by former President Donald Trump.
In response to Trump’s FY2026 budget proposal, which threatened to slash funding for the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) by a staggering 93%, the US House of Representatives has now dramatically softened the blow. Under the latest House Appropriations Bill, funding cuts have been reduced to just 5.5%, preserving over $700 million for ECA—including $287 million specifically for the Fulbright Program.
This development follows a record-breaking advocacy campaign led by the Alliance for International Exchange, which saw over 20,000 letters sent to Congress urging lawmakers to protect the future of international exchange. Mark Overmann, the Alliance’s executive director, described the revised budget as a “big win” and dismissed the earlier proposal as “doomsday” rhetoric.
“The President’s budget can be thrown out the window. This shows Congress recognises the value of international exchanges,” Overmann told The PIE News, adding that the bill represents a significant show of support for US soft power and diplomacy.
The FY2026 budget process is far from over, with the Senate Appropriations still to come. However, advocates remain hopeful. Historically, the Senate has offered even higher funding levels for ECA programmes than the House, and stakeholders are optimistic that trend will continue.
The news arrives amid an uncertain period for the United States’ global education strategy, following mass layoffs at the State Department and growing concerns over isolationist policies. Still, this move offers a much-needed boost for US study abroad, reinforcing the country’s ongoing commitment to international engagement and cooperation.
Source: THE PIE NEWS
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