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.
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.
Articles and Reports
Bearing the Burdens of College Costs: A Look at College Affordability by Student Race and Income at California’s Public Two- and Four-Year Colleges and Universities
How Student Loan Forgiveness Can Help Close the Racial Wealth Gap and Advance Economic Justice
Higher Education and Economic Opportunity in California
How Do I Pay for College?
FAFSA-Related News
The FAFSA rollout has been rough on students. The biggest problem is yet to come
Websites
The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC)