WASHINGTON (AP) — For decades, the federal work-study program helped millions of students get through college. It gave them flexible campus jobs and a steady source of income to help pay for tuition and living. But future students may not be so lucky.

The Trump administration’s 2018 budget seeks to cut funding for work-study nearly in half from $990 million to $500 million. That would leave 300,000 students without access to the program.

The Education Department says the change will make the work-study better targeted and refocus funds on undergraduate students who benefit most. The reductions are part of a 13 percent funding cut for the department.

But critics say the cuts will hit low-income students dreaming about college at a time when other student aid programs are also squeezed.

(Copyright (c) 2024 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

Join our Newsletter for the latest news right to your inbox