Columbia University to pay $200 million in federal settlement

Students are seen on the campus of Columbia University on April 14, 2025, in New York City.

Columbia University announced it will pay $200 million to the US government to resolve multiple investigations into alleged violations of federal anti-discrimination laws. The settlement follows pressure from the Trump administration, which had threatened to withdraw federal funding over concerns about the university's handling of Jewish student protections.

As part of the deal, Columbia has agreed to comply with rules prohibiting the consideration of race in admissions and hiring decisions. The university will also pay $21 million to settle claims brought by the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

The settlement will reinstate most federal grants that were paused earlier this year and restore Columbia’s eligibility for billions in current and future funding. This provides relief to the university, which faced growing financial pressures despite its large endowment.

President Trump praised Columbia’s agreement, warning other higher education institutions that similar scrutiny and actions may follow.

Columbia’s acting president said the deal safeguards the university’s independence while allowing federal research partnerships to resume. The agreement includes maintaining a security force to prevent campus disruptions, especially after last year’s clashes involving pro-Palestinian protests.

Columbia has agreed to promptly share information with federal authorities regarding disciplinary actions and arrests involving student visa holders.

The university faced criticism over campus protests related to Israel’s conflict in Gaza, with some Jewish students reporting intimidation and inadequate protection.

Columbia recently expelled or revoked degrees for nearly 80 students involved in protests calling for divestment from Israel, emphasizing that disruptions to academic activities violate university policies.

Despite the settlement, protest leaders remain vocal. Mahmoud Khalil, a graduate involved in the demonstrations, has sued the Trump administration for $20 million after his detention by immigration agents, calling it a step toward accountability.