Please be aware that references to OBBB implementation are intended to be understood at a high level. Ongoing discussions are focused on clarifying the anticipated timing and sequencing of the transition from FVT/GE to STATS within the accountability framework.
Institutions should expect significant changes to federal accountability standards stemming from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act’s (OBBB) “do no harm,” passed in July 2025, as the Department of Education (ED) transitions to a new unified framework beginning in 2027. For additional details, see ED’s press release, US Department of Education Reaches Consensus on Accountability Framework.
In January 2026, the Accountability in Higher Education and Access Through Demand-driven Workforce Pell (AHEAD) negotiated rulemaking committee reached consensus on a new program accountability framework: the Student Tuition and Transparency System (STATS).
ED is introducing STATS as the successor to the current Financial Value Transparency and Gainful Employment (FVT/GE) model. There will still be one final FVT/GE reporting cycle, which begins July 1, 2026, and is due by October 1, 2026. After the final reporting cycle is complete, STATS will replace FVT/GE.
ED is preparing updated regulatory text as part of the formal rulemaking process. The proposed language is expected in the first half of 2026. A final version will follow later in the year.
FVT/GE Timeline
- July 01, 2026: FVT/GE annual reporting begins
- October 01, 2026: FVT/GE annual reporting due
STATS Timeline
- January 2026: ED negotiated rulemaking reached consensus
- June 2026: ED plans to publish a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM)
- July 1, 2026: ED plans to publish the Final Rule
- After July 1, 2026: ED plans to publish STATS guidance
- Summer/Fall 2027: STATS initial annual reporting begins
- October 1, 2027: STATS initial annual reporting due
About STATS
The Student Tuition and Transparency System (STATS) is a new program accountability framework that will apply to both GE and eligible non‑GE programs, including those offered in U.S. territories and at foreign institutions. At a high level, STATS will replace the FVT/GE framework after its final reporting cycle in 2026. Details about how STATS will operate are still in development. Additional updates will be shared as the rulemaking process continues.
How the Clearinghouse Is Supporting Institutions
Throughout this transition, the National Student Clearinghouse is closely tracking each stage of the rulemaking and implementation process. We will continue to communicate updates as ED releases regulatory text, data specifications, and additional operational guidance. Our goal is to ensure institutions have clear, timely, and practical information about what to expect, how reporting requirements are changing, and the steps they can take to stay ready as the federal accountability landscape evolves.
As you prepare for the final FVT/GE reporting cycle beginning July 1, 2026, our FVT/GE Knowledge Base has helpful resources that can support you throughout the reporting process. We also encourage you to attend our upcoming Compliance Corner webinars, where our team will be available to answer your questions live.
If you need any assistance, please contact us at schoolops@studentclearinghouse.org.