Note: This was written prior to the government shutdown ending on Nov. 13, 2025.

Students have raised concerns as the ongoing government shutdown halts federal pay and programs.

Federally funded jobs have had pay suspended, with government employees working without pay or placed on unpaid leave until the shutdown ends.

​“I hate the shutdown,” says Evelyn, a UHCL student who works for NASA. “While I’m not political this affects my job and payments for school”

“I’m scared to not go in because I do not want to lose my job with NASA, but not getting paid and still showing up is upsetting.” Due to NASA being government-funded, Evelyn fears that she may not be able to afford her last year at college. 

​Other consequences of the current shutdown relate to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, better known as SNAP.

Hailey, a student who is registered with SNAP, says, “I luckily have my parents helping me, but I am a single mother and going to school, with the shutdown now becoming the longest ever. I really look forward to the government’s assistance when it comes to buying food or groceries. I am just trying to finish my school and get my degree so I can better provide for my child.” 

The current shutdown has set the record for longest in U.S. history. Reopening the government would require Republicans and Democrats reaching an agreement on Medicaid and healthcare insurance spending.