The Department of Education's fiscal year (FY) 1992 budget for higher education essentially freezes the FY 1991 funding level, with requested increases in student financial aid and categorical support offset exactly by proposed reductions. Most categorical programs will continue at their current funding level. (MSE)

According to members of Congress, college chief executive officers possess an enormous amount of prestige and clout they could utilize to get what they need from lawmakers--be it dollars, new programs, or legislative support. This year's concerns include access, college costs, and research funding. (MLW)

The Republican proposal to cut the federal student loan program is examined, and some of the other challenges and changes likely to be faced by higher education due to Republican politics are outlined, including appropriations for discretionary programs, welfare and immigration reform, social and economic policy issues affecting the middle class,…