An Education Department advisory panel approved a new earnings test intended to link federal aid eligibility for certain undergraduate certificates to measurable post‑completion wages. The vote cleared the measure despite one committee member abstaining and concerns that blocking consensus could jeopardize protections for students in certificate programs. Panel discussion highlighted tradeoffs between protecting students from low-quality programs and preserving access to short‑term credentials that lead to good jobs. Committee members debated thresholds, data sources and the potential for unintended consequences for institutions that serve nontraditional learners. The panel’s endorsement moves the proposal closer to regulatory consideration by ED, with college leaders, trade associations and workforce partners preparing to press for adjustments that limit administrative burden while preserving accountability for outcomes.