APLU works with members to confront and overcome the extraordinary challenges facing public research universities. We are working collectively to broaden access to higher education, garner renewed investment in research, and tackle societal challenges while spurring economic growth. Public universities are working to address urgent student needs, advance equity and degree completion, and address their communities’ most urgent work.

Driving Equitable Student Success
A core mission of public universities is to provide students from all different backgrounds access to a high-quality, affordable education, help those students obtain a degree, and ultimately work to ensure graduates are prepared for a lifetime of learning.

Fostering Research & Innovation
APLU promotes robust federal research funding as well as policies and university practices designed to support research, one of the core missions of our public universities. University research improves lives and has a significant impact on economic development and growth.

Deepening Community & Economic Engagement
APLU and its member institutions are deeply engaged in their communities and regions. Through partnerships with community organizations, state and local governments, entrepreneurs, small businesses, major corporations, and others, they advance economic development, tackle societal challenges, and foster great places to work and live.

Federal Policy & Advocacy
APLU works closely with members, fellow higher education groups, the business community, scientific organizations, and others on a range of issues and causes. A core focus of our effort involves drawing on the collective strength of our member institutions to effectively advocate for federal policies and funding levels that support and enhance the work of public research universities.
Highlighted Projects & Initiatives






seven million students annually. Doubling the maximum Pell Grant will help more students earn a degree, get a good-paying job, and increase economic mobility.



Supporting Our Work
APLU thanks the 20 NGOs and government agencies who supported our work in the last year. In 2021, APLU’s projects and initiatives had a combined contribution of more than $38 million over the life of the grants.
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