Students from low-income households have limited exposure to advanced math courses and opportunities that could prepare them for STEM internships and careers. Colleges and companies are ramping up efforts to ensure more equitable access.
Topics: Low-income students
States work to improve college access for youth currently or formerly in foster care
Bipartisan support grows for statewide legislation that expands access to higher education for youth with a history of being in foster care, who experience significant challenges to college completion, including high rates of housing insecurity and difficulties affording college costs.
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.
Students selling their blood plasma to cover college costs
A new book recounts how some college students have adopted a routine of paid blood plasma donations in order to afford their education and basic needs.
California program reshapes work-study to give underrepresented students a career boost
A new employment program in California allows underrepresented students at public postsecondary institutions to earn money to pay for college while gaining valuable work experience in their areas of interest.
Could direct admissions reduce barriers for low-income, first-gen students?
Although direct admissions can open doors to postsecondary education for students from underrepresented communities, a simpler application process isn’t enough to make college truly accessible, some experts say.
A call to connect more college students with federal food assistance program
A new report finds that many college students facing food insecurity are not taking advantage of public assistance programs that would make it easier for them to purchase food.
Building bridges to college for traditionally underrepresented students
Hoping to strengthen the path to higher education, college exposure programs and non-profit organizations are creating opportunities for high school students from historically underrepresented communities to earn credits and see themselves in that environment.
Disparities in academic preparation during K-12 key force in college enrollment gaps
More first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented minority students are applying to college, but uneven K-12 academic preparation remains a barrier to their enrollment in postsecondary institutions.
Colleges staff up to address basic needs insecurity
Hoping to increase the visibility and impact of resources available to students experiencing hunger, housing insecurity, or other hurdles, colleges are establishing director-level positions dedicated to meeting basic needs.
How ‘spaces of belonging’ can help first-gen students thrive
First-generation college students benefit significantly when institutions provide a dedicated campus center that supports their full participation in the college experience and signals their importance to the campus community.
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.