A new policy brief calls on colleges to use readily available financial aid data to inform students of their potential eligibility for government assistance, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and subsidized health insurance.
Topics: Student necessities
Another expansion for a highly regarded student success program
At a cost of $2,000 per year, per student, New York’s public university system is expanding a proven program that offers low-income students academic and financial support to help them complete their degree.
Federal study highlights food, housing insecurity among college students
A new study confirms that postsecondary students are experiencing significant rates of food insecurity and homelessness—and provides the first nationally representative federal data set of its kind.
Campus pantries help students with food insecurity get out of ‘survival mode’
U.S. colleges and universities prepare food pantries to support students struggling with hunger and aid those who may soon lose access to pandemic-era emergency SNAP benefits.
Work requirements for public assistance programs lock Americans out of college and higher-paying jobs
The resumption of work requirements for food stamp benefits and other public assistance programs could make it difficult for students to afford basic needs—and stay in school.
High living costs forcing California college students to make difficult choices
California’s pricey real estate markets are taking a toll on low-income students’ ability to attend University of California schools.
The push to make textbooks more affordable
Educators and state and federal legislators are working to reduce students’ course material costs by increasing access to open education resources.
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.
Emergency aid network equips faculty, staff to help students facing financial hardship
To support college students dealing with unforeseen expenses, a network called the FAST Fund is equipping faculty, staff, and unions at several dozen institutions to quickly distribute emergency aid when students turn to their professors for assistance.
Georgetown offers winter and summer housing to students encountering personal challenges
Georgetown University provides bridge housing during winter and summer university breaks to students facing difficulties.
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.
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.