Columbia University Reaches Landmark $220 Million Deal with Trump Administration Over Antisemitism Allegations

Columbia University has finalized a significant $220 million agreement with the Trump administration, aimed at resolving allegations regarding the university’s handling of antisemitism amid campus protests. Education Secretary Linda McMahon, speaking on Thursday, July 17, 2025, expressed her satisfaction with the deal, calling it a “cultural change” for universities.

The settlement, which sees Columbia paying $200 million to the federal government over three years, restores nearly half a billion dollars in education grants and contracts previously frozen by the Trump administration. These funds are crucial for the Ivy League institution’s research projects. The freeze was enacted in March following a task force investigation that cited the university’s alleged inaction in protecting Jewish students.

A key element of the agreement involves Columbia assuring compliance with admissions and hiring practices, effectively banning diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies at the school. However, Acting Columbia President Claire Shipman stated that the university has not admitted wrongdoing and disputes the government’s conclusion that it violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.

McMahon emphasized that the deal aims to ensure a safe campus environment for Jewish students and promote open debate where all viewpoints can be expressed. Despite the agreement, some Jewish students, including recent graduate Eden Yadegar, have voiced disappointment, arguing the deal does not go far enough. Columbia has acknowledged that “Jewish students and faculty have experienced painful, unacceptable incidents” and committed to ongoing efforts to combat antisemitism, including submitting regular reports to a federal monitor.

McMahon hailed the deal as a “great win for education and for the administration,” attributing its success to President Trump’s efforts to address alleged antisemitic harassment on university campuses. Negotiations are also ongoing with Harvard University regarding its frozen federal funding.

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