UW-Madison’s Office of Federal Relations is coordinating the campus response to emerging federal updates, including executive orders, agency directives and congressional activity. Representatives from across campus, including Strategic Communication, the Provost’s Office, the Office of Legal Affairs, the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research, Student Affairs, the Office of Human Resources, the International Division, the Division of Enrollment Management, UWPD, and additional offices, are monitoring these issues and coordinating communication.
Last update: October 8, 2025
Messages for Campus
Message to research community regarding the federal shutdown
Today marks day 8 of the federal government shutdown. Kurt McMillen, Interim Associate Vice Chancellor for Research Administration and Interim Director for Research and Sponsored Programs, shared a message below with the UW–Madison research community.
October 8, 2025Guidance on immigration and international travel during federal government shutdown
As the federal government shutdown continues, the UW–Madison community should be aware of the potential impact on immigration processes and international travel.
October 2, 2025Federal student aid processing minimally impacted by federal shutdown
The Department of Education reaffirmed that, at this time, the federal government shutdown will have minimal impacts on Federal Student Aid (FSA).
October 2, 2025Federal shutdown update from VCFA, VCR
Campus leaders are monitoring developments and potential impacts and will continue to communicate with the community and shared governance.
October 1, 2025UW–Madison prepares for possible federal shutdown
Campus leadership, including University Relations, Research and Sponsored Programs (RSP) in the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research, the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, and the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Legal Affairs, began preparing for the possibility several weeks ago, amid other work on federal updates.
September 28, 2025- More campus messages regarding federal updates.
Questions?
Campus community members can reach out to University Relations, the centralized point of contact for resources and information related to emerging federal updates. Campus units are asked to coordinate with our office before planning communication on federal actions and activities.
Resources
Research & Sponsored Programs
Researchers with federally-funded projects should consult these resources.
Administrative & Congressional Updates
Additional information and resources for understanding federal activities.
Human Resources & Immigration
Resources related to immigration, administrative compliance and more.
Association & Partners Updates
Updates and information from higher-ed coalitions, associations and partners.
Other Resources
A list of resources for campus employees.
Focus on Mission
As UW–Madison assesses the evolving governmental landscape, our focus remains on our mission. We are committed to the Wisconsin Idea, which states that what we do here at the University should enhance the lives of every person in the State of Wisconsin, as well as around the nation and the world.