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Columbia University to Pay $200M to Settle Trump Probe
Columbia University has agreed to pay over $200 crore to resolve a civil rights investigation initiated during the Trump administration. The deal will reinstate access to hundreds of millions in federal grants and includes a series of campus reforms aimed at addressing claims of antisemitism.
Background of the Dispute
The case began earlier this year when the U.S. government temporarily suspended nearly $400 million in federal funding to Columbia, alleging that the university had failed to protect Jewish students during on-campus protests related to the Israel–Hamas conflict. A federal civil rights review concluded that Columbia may have violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which bars discrimination in federally funded programs.
Settlement Terms and Funding
Under the agreement finalized this week, Columbia will pay approximately $200 million to the U.S. government and an additional $21 million in compensatory measures for students and faculty who reported discrimination. In return, federal funds that had been withheld will now be released.
Columbia clarified that while it disagrees with the findings, it has agreed to the settlement to avoid prolonged litigation and ensure continued research and academic operations. The university did not admit to any legal wrongdoing.
Reforms and Compliance Measures
As part of the settlement, Columbia will adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism, enhance campus safety policies, revise disciplinary procedures, and appoint compliance officers. New protest guidelines will be enforced, including regulations around face coverings and required coordination with law enforcement for large demonstrations.
What This Means for Columbia
The settlement brings an end to a tense chapter between the university and the federal government. While Columbia regains access to federal research funding, it must now meet strict compliance obligations and submit regular progress reports. The reforms aim to create a safer, more accountable campus environment while addressing concerns over discrimination, free speech, and institutional responsibility.
