FEDERAL CUTS TO TRIBAL COLLEGE FUNDING THREATENS ARIZONA’S PROGRESS
Proposed cuts to the federal budget threaten to reduce funding for tribal colleges across the country from $187 million in 2025 to just $22 million in 2026, a nearly 90% reduction. This staggering cut would severely limit these institutions’ ability to serve Native American students, especially in rural areas where access to postsecondary education is already limited.
Established under the Tribally Controlled Community College Assistance Act of 1978, tribal colleges were created to uphold treaty and trust obligations, which include guaranteed inflation-adjusted funding based on enrollment. These colleges provide Native American students with opportunities for postsecondary education in their communities where they can learn skills and earn credentials to fill workforce needs.
Federal funding currently accounts for about 75% of tribal colleges’ budgets. Without strong and sustained investment, these colleges may be forced to cut programs, limit enrollment, or close their doors entirely—cutting off access to higher education, disrupting local economies, and further deepening existing disparities.
In Arizona, the stakes are especially high.
Tribal colleges like Tohono O’odham Community College, Diné College, San Carlos Apache College, and Navajo Technical University are key drivers of postsecondary attainment. They offer education and training opportunities close to home, support dual enrollment for high school students, and prepare future healthcare workers, educators, environmental leaders, and cultural experts who are ready to serve Arizona’s diverse and growing needs.
Arizona currently has a 49% attainment rate, meaning just under half of adults hold a degree or credential. Our state has set a goal of reaching 60% attainment by 2030. We cannot reach that goal without the continued strength and success of our tribal colleges.
A recent economic impact report found that Arizona could gain more than $5 billion annually by increasing higher education enrollment by just 20%. We simply cannot afford to leave that potential—and those students—behind.
Preserving tribal college funding is not just an education issue. It’s about honoring commitments, strengthening communities, and securing Arizona’s future.
Arizona has Everything to Gain when more students—regardless of background or zip code—can access education and training after high school.
Read more about how Education Forward Arizona is advocating to protect federal student aid programs, including Pell Grants, and why these investments matter for Arizona’s students, families, and future.