As of July 2026, more than 500 students were disenrolled from Howard University in Washington D.C. due to unmet financial deadlines. Incoming freshmen were notified about their situation, leaving many facing uncertainty about where they would attend college.
Governor Kathy Hochul has offered support to these students by encouraging them to attend participating State University of New York (SUNY) or City University of New York (CUNY). Participating universities with available capacity will have expedited late admissions reviews for all impacted students for the Fall 2026 Semester.
“Hundreds of students, including New Yorkers, are scrambling and scared since they’ve been disenrolled from their intended college just a few weeks before classes are set to begin,” Gov. Hochul stated, “We are ready to welcome these talented students with the opportunity they deserve.”
Administration and staff are partnering together to help these students during this time. With support, students can find aid and reassurance amid this situation and during their academic career.
Gov. Hochul’s directive inspired various SUNY and CUNY universities to support the disenrolled students and voice how they will aid them.
In a statement provided by Gov. Hochul’s official announcement, City University of New York Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez states, “CUNY’s mission is to expand access to higher education for all students, not restrict it based on financial means. … our doors are open, our admissions are expedited, and your dream of a college degree remains well within reach.”
The Knight News reached out to Jennifer Jarvis, Vice President of Student Affairs and Strategic Enrollment Initiatives on how QC will reflect Gov. Hochul’s initiative.
“Queens College is proud to participate in Governor Kathy Hochul’s directive as a City University of New York school to support students impacted by Howard University’s recent decision on disenrolling students.” Jarvis stated, “Although no Howard University students are currently enrolled at the college, we remain prepared to assist every impacted Howard University student while ensuring continuity and the highest level of service to our currently enrolled Queens College students.”
Saniah Collins, 17, from Atlanta, Georgia shared her perspective with CNN, stating, “Howard has been my everything. My whole senior year, my whole summer I worked consistently on scholarships. We tried to make ourselves 10 steps ahead to make sure we were on the right page.”
CNN displayed how the devastation troubled students across the states by sharing perspectives across the U.S. As enrollment deadlines approached, students found it very difficult to register in universities.
In an official announcement by Howard University on July 23, they stated, “The university recognizes that timing differences may have occurred between when financial aid was reflected and when charges were finalized.”
They continue to say that every case will be viewed individually if needed. Although addressing the situation, the university still seems to be under criticism. According to CNN, experts such as Marybeth Gasman at Rutgers University, mention that it is a bad look on Howard, as it is a predominantly and historically black school.
Students can find more resources to aid their academic journey on the official QC website.
