How to Financially Support Students' Educational Journey?
Nearly half of the participants are not aware that households whose income is below $20,000 would likely get free tuition at any public college or university.
Community Colleges or Four-Year Institutions?
Many students and their families choose colleges and universities based on their financial situation rather than their personal or their child’s aspirations. Community colleges are frequently favored by those who prioritize factors such as family finances, proximity to home, and concerns about feeling overwhelmed by the college experience. Our research indicates that many people believe that starting at a community college and then transferring to a four-year university is a beneficial path, particularly for students from low-income backgrounds, leading to greater success.
Cost of College
Cost and financial aid matter most when it comes to selecting a college/university.
Take-Away
One of the easiest ways to increase enrollment is removing the perceived financial barrier by communicating to potential students and their parents that low-income households are likely to receive free tuition at any public college/university.
We recommend taking this insight a step further by letting potential students and their parents know that if they apply early, they will likely receive income-based grants even if they are above the low-income mark and regardless of academic achievement.