The Higher Education Act (HEA) provides almost $50 billion in loans, grants, work-study and institutional aid in support of postsecondary education. Ninety-five percent of the funding is through Title IV in the form of aid to students. The remainder is used to improve teacher quality, ensure access and improve postsecondary institutions.

The Higher Education Act was originally authorized in 1965 and was last fully reauthorized in 1998. The following titles are currently included in HEA:

Title I - General Provisions

Title II - Teacher Quality Enhancement Grants for States and Partnerships

Title III - Institutional Aid

Title IV - Student Assistance

Title V - Developing Institutions

Title VI - International Education Programs

Title VII - Graduate and Postsecondary Improvement Programs

Title VIII - Studies, Reports, and Related Programs