Expanding Opportunities in Higher Education Act of 2003

This bill proposes several significant changes to federal higher education laws to increase access and simplify the financial aid process. It would repeal the "90/10 rule," allowing for-profit colleges to receive more than 90% of their revenue from federal student aid, and remove restrictions on the number of online or distance-learning courses an institution can offer while remaining eligible for federal funding.

For students and families, the bill aims to make college more affordable and accessible by extending funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic-serving institutions, and Tribal colleges. It would also make it easier for active-duty service members to qualify for financial aid as independent students and directs the Department of Education to simplify the FAFSA application process. Additionally, the legislation continues support for programs like TRIO and GEAR UP, which provide tutoring and outreach to low-income and first-generation college students.