The U.S. Department of Education has moved forward on a new earnings-based accountability framework for Title IV programs, rolling out final regulations tied to an earnings “Do No Harm” standard. Under the rule, programs generally face eligibility loss only when graduates consistently earn less than comparable high school graduates and show poor repayment outcomes. The department also built in exemptions for certain programs outside the Direct Loan Program and delayed consequences for programs tied to tipped occupations. The regulations also require institutions to submit new reporting under the Student Transparency System (STATS) or remain under earlier Gainful Employment reporting through defined transition windows, with some provisions effective in 2026 and broad changes effective in 2027. Separately, the department continued expanding competition across accreditors, added graduate earnings data into recognition reviews, and issued interim guidance for certain professional degree programs following court action.