Times of India

George Santos, known for fabricating his education, career, and personal history, had his 87-month prison sentence for fraud and identity theft commuted by President Donald Trump in October 2025. Expelled from Congress in 2023, Santos’ case drew national attention for its scope of deception and reignited debates over political integrity and accountability.

The US Department of Education has resumed student loan forgiveness for millions after reaching an agreement with the American Federation of Teachers. The deal allows income-driven repayment borrowers to receive tax-free loan cancellations and reimbursements for extra payments. It also reopens paused programs like IBR and PAYE, offering long-awaited relief and stability to student debt holders.

Columbia Law School will now require international JD applicants to explain why they wish to study in the US, following a $220 million settlement with the Trump administration. The change, effective for fall 2026 admissions, reflects heightened federal scrutiny of international student enrollment, visa policies, and universities’ financial dependence on foreign students, reshaping US legal education admissions.

The White House met with university presidents to discuss President Trump’s proposed higher education compact, which ties federal funding to ideological and policy commitments. While Education Secretary Linda McMahon called for collaboration, several universities, including Virginia and MIT, have already rejected the deal, citing threats to academic independence. The standoff highlights tensions between federal oversight and university autonomy.

The University of Virginia has become the fifth U.S. institution to reject Donald Trump’s “Compact for Academic Excellence,” a White House proposal linking federal funding to conservative education reforms. Interim president Paul G. Mahoney said the university will not accept conditional funding, citing threats to academic integrity. The decision adds to nationwide resistance against the policy.

In today’s U.S. workplaces, employees increasingly maintain dual identities, balancing professional expectations with personal authenticity. Zety’s survey of 1,000 workers reveals that 60% believe a separate “work identity” is essential, while many conceal beliefs, values, or personal traits to fit in. This compartmentalization erodes well-being, particularly among marginalized groups, highlighting an urgent need for authentic, psychologically safe work cultures.

Palomar College’s board of directors sparked controversy by voting to remove its 2021 anti-racism policy, a move widely criticized by students, faculty, and the community. The decision, justified by legal concerns, reflects a broader national trend of rolling back diversity and inclusion policies under federal pressures. Critics warn the move could undermine campus equity and inclusivity initiatives.

The US federal budget deficit fell by $41 billion to $1.775 trillion in fiscal 2025, driven by record customs revenue from tariffs and steep cuts to education spending, even as healthcare, Social Security, and debt interest rose. Analysts warn that without structural reforms, the modest decline may be temporary, highlighting ongoing challenges in achieving long-term fiscal sustainability.

The TNPSC Group 4 Result 2025 is expected soon, following the written examination held on July 12 across multiple Tamil Nadu centres. The 200-question test assessed Tamil proficiency, general knowledge, and analytical ability. Successful candidates will be considered for key state government posts, including Village Administrative Officers, Junior Assistants, Typists, and Forest Guards, with results accessible via tnpsc.gov.in.

Across the United States, artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming central to classroom instruction. Teachers are adapting to tools that automate grading, generate lesson plans, and personalize learning. Unions like AFT and NEA are partnering with tech companies to train educators while retaining professional oversight. The challenge lies in integrating AI effectively, maintaining educational integrity, and preparing students for a technology-driven future.

A 2025 Gallup-led study reveals a stark reality: only 40% of US workers hold “quality jobs” that offer fair pay, growth, autonomy, and safe, respectful workplaces. Beyond wages, many employees face fragile cultures, limited advancement, and minimal influence over their work. The findings highlight an urgent need for a “quality-first” approach, redefining the future of work in America.

A new analysis by MyPerfectResume (2025) exposes a growing illusion in corporate America, “growth theater.” The reports reveal that 92% of US workers believe job titles are being inflated to mimic advancement, offering prestige without pay or power. With many employees feeling “title trapped,” experts warn of a deeper crisis: symbolic recognition replacing genuine progress.

The US Department of Education has issued layoff notices to over 460 staff, threatening more than 40 student grant programs, including Title I and IDEA. Offices overseeing K-12 and higher education funding, HBCUs, and Hispanic-Serving Institutions face cuts, raising concerns over delayed grants, disrupted support, and reduced federal oversight. A federal judge has temporarily blocked the layoffs amid political uncertainty.

Four leading universities—MIT, Brown, University of Pennsylvania, and USC—have rejected the Trump administration's funding offer tied to a “Compact for Academic Excellence.” The compact demands policy changes, including removing race and sex from admissions, capping international students, and limiting academic expression. These schools cite concerns over academic freedom, governance, and research funding merit as reasons for refusal, highlighting broader tensions between federal control and university autonomy in the US.

Students of the 2020s are redefining work, with side hustles becoming nearly twice as common as among their 1980s counterparts. Driven by creativity, digital opportunity, and economic necessity, these ventures blur the lines between learning and earning. Beyond income, they shape professional identity, teaching entrepreneurial skills, adaptability, and initiative, while offering freedom from traditional career constraints.

Several US states, including New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Texas, and California (from 2026), have recognised Diwali as an official school or state holiday. The move reflects growing cultural diversity and inclusion, allowing students and families to celebrate the festival of lights without missing classes. Recognition varies by district, marking Diwali’s expanding presence across America.

The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) has declared the IBPS SO Result 2025 for the Specialist Officer prelims held on August 30, 2025. Candidates can check their qualifying status for the mains exam, scheduled for November 9, 2025, on the official portal. The result details include personal information, post applied for, registration and roll numbers, category, and qualifying status, guiding aspirants toward the next recruitment phase.

The CBSE has announced that the Class XII Biology examination will be held on March 27, 2026, providing students a clear timeline for structured preparation. Covering topics from cell biology to ecology, the exam emphasizes conceptual understanding, analytical reasoning, and diagrammatic skills. With a detailed marking scheme and five-section format, strategic revision, practice, and time management are crucial for success.

IB JIO answer key 2025: The Ministry of Home Affairs has released the provisional IB JIO answer key 2025 on nsc.gov.in. Candidates who appeared for the exam held on October 13, 2025, can download the answer key using their login credentials. An objection window is open for raising concerns before the final key is published. Detailed instructions for accessing the answer key and important updates about the recruitment process are available on the official website.

Over half of prospective students use AI tools like ChatGPT to help with study abroad decisions, according to recent research. Despite AI’s growing role in early research, students still trust human advice and official university websites. Universities emphasise multi-channel marketing strategies, combining AI with personalised support from agents and in-person events. Accurate, real-time information remains essential for guiding students through applications and visa processes, as reported by the ICEF.