Bill 118 hr 10404, also known as the "Foreign Distance Education Act," aims to amend title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 to allow foreign institutions of higher education to participate in federal student aid programs for their distance education programs. Currently, only domestic institutions are eligible for these programs.
The bill seeks to expand access to higher education for students who are interested in pursuing degrees from foreign institutions through online or distance learning programs. By allowing these institutions to participate in federal student aid programs, students would have more options for obtaining a quality education, regardless of their location.
Supporters of the bill argue that it would increase competition and innovation in the higher education sector, as well as provide students with more affordable options for obtaining a degree. Additionally, it could potentially strengthen international partnerships and collaborations between US and foreign institutions.
Critics, however, raise concerns about the quality and accreditation of foreign institutions, as well as the potential for fraud and abuse in the federal student aid system. They argue that allowing foreign institutions to participate in these programs could undermine the integrity of US higher education and put students at risk of receiving subpar education.
Overall, the Foreign Distance Education Act aims to expand access to higher education for students interested in pursuing degrees from foreign institutions through online programs, but it also raises important questions about quality, accreditation, and potential risks for students.