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.
Messages for Campus
Changes to the “Duration of Status” Rule for International Students and Scholars
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has issued a federal rule change July 17 that ends the longstanding “duration of status” (D/S) rule for international students and scholars. The rule is effective September 15.
July 17, 2026Update regarding proposed changes to uniform guidance
Monday was the comment deadline for the Office of Management and Budget's Proposed Regulation on Federal Financial Assistance, which would make broad and significant changes to federal research administration. UW–Madison joined nearly 500,000 other individuals and entities in submitting public comments to the proposal.
July 15, 2026$100,000 H-1B Fee Update
On June 8, 2026, the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts struck down the federal government’s $100,000 H-1B payment policy as unlawful.
June 10, 2026Proposed changes to uniform guidance – UW–Madison monitoring and assessment
Vice Chancellor Dorota Brzezinska shared a message with the campus research community regarding the Office of Management and Budget's recently proposed changes to uniform guidance.
June 5, 2026Changes to the Federal Direct Loan Program from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act
The Office of Student Financial Aid has created a webpage to share updates and resources on changing rules around federal student loan borrowing.
June 2, 2026- 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.