The U.S. Department of Education (ED) has officially dismissed a proposed fine of $37.7 million against Grand Canyon University (GCU), confirming there were no findings of wrongdoing. The dismissal came through the ED’s Office of Hearings and Appeals, stating that GCU did not violate any Title IV requirements, including allegations that the university misrepresented the costs of its doctoral programs.
GCU President Brian Mueller welcomed the decision, expressing confidence that the university had been wrongfully accused. He emphasized that GCU provides thorough information to students regarding program costs and timelines, surpassing legal requirements. The dismissal aligns with previous rulings from various regulatory bodies and courts that have also found no merit in claims against GCU. Earlier, federal courts rejected similar allegations regarding GCU’s disclosures, while the Higher Learning Commission acknowledged the university’s disclosures as “robust and thorough.”
Furthermore, a recent audit by the Arizona State Approving Agency of the Department of Veterans Affairs corroborated that there were “no substantiated findings” against GCU. The dismissal coincides with other recent legal victories for the university. In November 2024, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the ED had acted unlawfully in questioning GCU’s nonprofit status, which has been further supported by a bipartisan letter from ten Arizona Congressional members.
In March 2025, the U.S. District Court of Arizona dismissed a lawsuit from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) against GCU, stating that the FTC lacked jurisdiction. The court affirmed GCU’s status as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit entity, reinforcing the university’s assertion that being a revenue-generating nonprofit does not equate to being a for-profit organization.
This recent development marks a significant step for GCU as it continues to fight against allegations stemming from the past administration, showing resilience and a commitment to clarity in its operations and educational offerings. GCU remains focused on its mission to deliver quality education while navigating regulatory landscapes.
Grand Canyon University, established in 1949, has a rich history as Arizona’s premier private Christian university, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offering a wide array of academic programs for both traditional and adult learners.