For-profit schools may win OK for federal grants: "The change would allow many for-profit education companies to compete for hundreds of millions of dollars in federal grants now reserved for nonprofit schools.

''Do you really think that the American taxpayer wants to siphon these funds to the for-profit institutions?'' Letteney asked. ''As a taxpayer, I would say no.''

Supporters say the change would benefit students. They say the for-profit schools that more students are attending should enjoy an even playing field when it comes to federal support."