The Cost of Federal Regulatory Compliance in Higher Education: A Multi-Institutional Study

It is no secret that the federal government plays an active role in regulating higher education, and justifiably so given the major financial investment that it makes through student grants and loans, research grants, and other subsidies. This regulatory oversight is critical to ensuring that taxpayer dollars supporting higher education and research in myriad ways are responsibly managed; that the health and safety of all students, faculty, staff, and visitors is protected; that research is conducted safely and responsibly; that federal laws are followed; and that many other important checks and safeguards are in place. At a time when students, families, policymakers, and higher education leaders are carefully examining the cost of higher education in the United States, a close analysis of the costs associated with federal regulation is warranted.