During the Board of Regents meeting last week, Chancellor Jennifer L. Mnookin shared an update regarding federal research funding changes over the past year.
Federal FY26 appropriations update
University leadership and the Office of Federal Relations continue to closely monitor the state of federal funding. At this point, it remains an incredibly fluid situation.
Spring 2026 guidance on federal immigration actions
UW–Madison remains committed to keeping our community informed so all can navigate rights, responsibilities and resources related to law and policy.
Update on NIH indirect cost rate cap
On Monday, January 5, a panel of appellate judges unanimously upheld a lower court ruling blocking the National Institutes of Health from implementing a standard 15% facilities and administrative (F&A) rate across all NIH grants for indirect costs. The decision maintains current reimbursement rates, ensuring continued access to essential funding for annual expenses.
Business leaders urge Congress to sustain funding for the National Science Foundation
Yesterday, over 400 business leaders across the country sent a letter to Congress urging them to “sustain funding for the National Science Foundation as a cornerstone of U.S. competitiveness.” UW–Madison facilitated the signatures of many Wisconsin industry stakeholders, with the support of Wisconsin Tech Council and gener8tor.
Dec. 16, 2025 travel restrictions announcement
A new Presidential Proclamation was issued yesterday expanding the list of countries with full or partial travel restrictions on their nationals. Information about how these restrictions may affect UW-Madison international students, staff, and faculty can be found on the International Student Services website.
Professional degree reclassifications
UW–Madison is aware of professional degree reclassifications that are part of the Reimagining and Improving Student Education (RISE) Committee’s proposed federal student-loan changes to implement the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. These changes could impact federal loan options for students in multiple UW–Madison degree programs. We are awaiting the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) in the Federal Register will coordinate university comments.
Congressional Staff See UW–Madison Research Up Close and the Federal Investments Powering Wisconsin Innovation
UW–Madison welcomed congressional staff for a three-day visit to campus, November 12 – 14, to see firsthand how national investments fuel discovery, improve lives, and strengthen Wisconsin’s economy. With federal research funding facing new uncertainty, the Office of Federal Relations provided an up-close look at how agency-backed projects support the state’s key industries.
Federal shutdown ends
By a 222-209 vote in the House of Representatives, a continuing resolution (CR) to fund the government through January 30, 2026, has passed Congress. President Trump signed the bill early Thursday morning.
Nov. 5 federal shutdown update
Today marks the 36th day of the federal government shutdown. Most of the university continues to operate normally.