U.S. colleges and universities are offering ever-greater discounts to make their institutions more affordable and attractive as they compete for students who are increasingly concerned about the value of a college education.
Topics: Financial aid
Financial aid shifting from lower-income students to higher-income students, analysis finds
At nearly 700 colleges and universities across the country, net prices have risen more rapidly for the lowest-income students than for their highest-income peers, says The Hechinger Report.
Year-round Pell Grants linked to improved retention, earnings
A new study finds that students eligible for year-round Pell Grants had higher degree attainment rates and earnings than students who could not access the grants for summer sessions.
Biden’s 2024 spending package for higher ed increases student aid, renews calls for free community college
Described by officials as a “values statement,” President Biden’s 2024 budget proposal seeks a $10.8B increase for the U.S. Department of Education, including proposals to increase financial aid awards, provide tuition-free community college, and bolster mental health and basic needs supports for college students.
More students may be eligible for Pell Grants under FAFSA Simplification Act
Changes to the financial aid process could expand access to Pell Grants for students from low-income households, according to a new analysis from state education leaders.
McCourt School expands scholarships that provide financial support for military-connected students
Thanks to a generous donation, the Craig Newmark Veterans Scholarship Fund will provide tuition assistance for military-connected students and fund veterans and national security programing at the McCourt School.
Students who meet with high school counselors more likely to apply for and receive need-based aid
Amid a national school counselor shortage, a new report highlights the role these professionals play in ensuring college-bound students get access to the funding they need to meet college costs.
Georgetown expands scholarships for military-connected undergraduate students
New Yellow Ribbon Program benefits will cover the annual cost of full-time undergraduate tuition for eligible military-connected students.
Pell Grant receives largest increase in a decade
New legislation signed at the end of 2022 includes a $500 increase to the maximum Pell Grant award and additional funding for other higher education programs that serve students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
GAO highlights opportunities to improve accuracy, transparency in financial aid packages
A new report from the Government Accountability Office says that most U.S. colleges and universities are not following best practices for providing clear and standard information when sharing financial aid packages with newly admitted students, leaving many families unprepared for the true cost of college.
Georgetown McDonough School of Business expands tuition benefits for military-connected students
To increase access to graduate degree programs for veterans, Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business will expand its Yellow Ribbon Program scholarships.
Education Department finalizes new rules for prison education programs
Preparing for a dramatic expansion in the number of incarcerated students eligible for Pell Grants, the U.S. Department of Education has released new regulations to guide higher education institutions offering prison education programs.