Results of a self-study by Sterling College, Kansas, on the impact of federal programs are discussed. Sterling College, a small college with an enrollment of 500 students, has received 54 percent of its tuition dollars from federal and state programs. Until 1977-78 when $147,000 was received in federal support for program development, only small amounts of federal funds were received. A survey of college officials revealed that in general there is a minimum level of understanding of regulations pertaining to governmental programs. There is uncertainty about whether the college's affirmative action plan is acceptable, whether the due process system will stand up in courts, or whether the college is offering equal opportunity to both sexes in all areas. Demands of federal reports have required time-consuming efforts on the part of the office of student aid and the business office. Title IX regulations have changed priorities in the physical education program. It is concluded that the small college is in a difficult position and must decide whether receiving federal dollars is the best course of action, or whether it is possible to gather enough support to manage alone. A sample questionnaire used in the self-study is included. (SW)