American Students First Act

HR 8039, the American Students First Act, amends the Higher Education Act to set new eligibility requirements for federal TRIO programs (like Upward Bound and Talent Search). It directly affects students seeking these programs by requiring participants to be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, specific aliens with intent to become permanent residents, citizens of Freely Associated States, CNMI residents, or lawful residents of Freely Associated States. The bill prohibits waiving these requirements under certain appropriations laws or performance partnership pilots. This change clarifies who qualifies for federal student support programs but does not alter program funding or create new benefits.