Austin, Texas, October 23, 2025
News Summary
Students at the University of Texas at Austin are gearing up to protest during the inauguration of the university’s 31st president. Their demonstration is sparked by concerns over the Trump Administration’s proposed ‘Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education,’ which could restrict diversity measures and limit the number of international students. With a feedback deadline on the proposal approaching, students feel abandoned by university leadership and are mobilizing support for their cause, highlighted by a petition gathering over 1,400 alumni signatures opposing the compact.
AUSTIN, Texas—Students at the University of Texas at Austin plan to protest during the Inauguration and Investiture of the university’s 31st president, amid uncertainty over the Trump Administration’s proposed “Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education.” The compact has sparked significant concern among students regarding potential changes to university policies and has drawn criticism due to a lack of communication from the administration about its plans regarding the deal.
The compact proposes major changes, including the prohibition of diversity, equity, and inclusion measures in hiring and admissions. It also includes a five-year freeze on tuition rates and limits on the number of international students to 15% of the undergraduate body, with no more than 5% from any single country. These changes have alarmed student groups such as Not Our Texas, the Texas Black Student Alliance, and the Black Studies Experience, which are promoting a peaceful demonstration alongside the inauguration event. Many students feel blindsided by the university’s silence, as the deadline for feedback on the proposal is October 20, and UT Austin has yet to announce whether it will sign the compact.
On October 2, UT System Board of Regents Chairman Kevin Eltife revealed that UT Austin was among nine universities in the U.S. considered for potential funding advantages tied to the compact. However, reports indicate that seven of the nine universities have already rejected the compact, leaving UT Austin and Vanderbilt University as the remaining institutions that have not publicly declined the proposal.
Students at UT Austin, including Freshman Henry Glanzer, have expressed concerns over the implications of the compact on personal and educational rights. Seniors like Arianna Jenkins share similar views, highlighting adverse effects on various targeted groups on campus. Concerns regarding the potential shifts in the university’s identity and overall direction are also prevalent, with Freshman Eian Hayden underscoring the uncertainty associated with the university’s decisions amidst broader conversations about inclusion and equity.
In response to the situation, UT President Jim Davis announced the formation of a Core Curriculum Task Force aimed at enhancing the core curriculum for all students. A university spokesperson clarified that this review is unrelated to the compact deal and had been in development for several months prior.
A petition initiated by alumni opposing the compact has gathered over 1,400 signatures, further reflecting widespread apprehension within the UT Austin community regarding the ramifications of accepting the Trump Administration’s proposal.
Key Points
- Students at UT Austin plan to protest during the university’s presidential inauguration.
- The Trump Administration’s “Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education” may impact diversity and academic policies.
- UT Austin has not made a public announcement regarding signing the compact by the October 20 deadline.
- Concerns about the compact’s implications for student rights and university identity are widespread.
- A petition against the compact has collected over 1,400 signatures from concerned alumni.
Background Context
As universities across the nation grapple with the implications of the proposed compact, institutions have been divided in their responses. Many universities view the compact as an attack on long-standing policies aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion, while others are considering the potential financial incentives offered through federal funding. The ongoing debate emphasizes the challenging balance between institutional policies and the pursuit of academic excellence.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the student protest at UT Austin?
Students plan to protest against the university’s silence on the Trump Administration’s “Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education” during the presidential inauguration.
What are the main features of the proposed Trump compact?
The compact includes prohibitions on diversity, equity, and inclusion measures in hiring and admissions, a five-year freeze on tuition rates, and limits on international students.
What is the deadline for UT Austin to respond to the compact?
The deadline for feedback on the proposed compact is October 20, and the university has not indicated whether it will sign.
How many universities have rejected the compact?
Seven out of the nine universities offered the compact have reportedly rejected it.
Is there a petition against the compact?
Yes, a petition initiated by alumni opposing the compact has gathered over 1,400 signatures.
Key Features of the Compact
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Diversity Measures | Prohibits consideration of diversity, equity, and inclusion in hiring and admissions. |
| Tuition Freeze | Demands a five-year freeze on tuition rates. |
| International Student Limits | Limits international students to 15% of the undergraduate body, with no more than 5% from one country. |
| Federal Funding | Offers preferential treatment and funding to complying universities. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
UT Austin Remains Silent on Trump Administration’s Funding Compact
AISD Faces Controversy Over Good Friday Decision
UT Austin Swears in New President Amid Education Controversy
Youth Engagement Surges for Turning Point USA in Oklahoma
Dallas Faces Challenges as Immigration Policies Stifle Job Growth
University of Texas Remains Silent on Trump Administration Compact
The Growing Concern of Political Violence in America
New Student Club at David Douglas High School Provokes Protests
Austin Explores Waiver to Preserve Street Art Amid Compliance Needs
UT Austin Faces Controversy Over Proposed Academic Regulations
Additional Resources
- The New York Times
- Wikipedia: Trump Administration
- KXAN
- Google Search: Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education
- TIME
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Higher Education
- Austin American-Statesman
- Google News: UT Austin Trump Compact
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
