New report finds that nearly all state flagship institutions are unaffordable for low- and middle-income students.
Oftentimes, flagship institutions are the most academically rigorous and selective public college option in their states. As such, they must be accessible to all residents and offer financial support to students who experience economic hardship. However, cuts in state funding mean that a much larger percentage of school costs now fall onto students and their families. As such, it’s not surprising that nearly all state flagship institutions are unaffordable for low- and middle-income students.
According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, state funding for higher education fell approximately 16% per student between 2008 and 2018. In its report, the Institute for Higher Education Policy (IHEP) shows that state contributions have dropped from 71% to 54% per-student since 2000. This resulted in a greater financial burden placed on students and their families. The IHEP notes that, since 2000, student and familial contributions have increased from 29% t0 46%.
To make up for lost state funding, many flagship universities have started to target higher-income students who can afford to pay tuition without relying on school-offered financial assistance. However, this comes at the expense of lower-income students who cannot afford enrollment at state flagship schools without financial aid.
So, how can flagship colleges and universities make themselves more accessible to low- and middle-class students? Well, the most obvious solution is by lowering tuition costs and providing more financial aid. The IHEP also recommends that schools start offering aid to cover non-tuition expenses and incentivizing programs that look to recruit low-income students.
This is what you need to know about the report that found that nearly all state flagship institutions are unaffordable for low- and middle-income students. Looking for a consulting firm with experience working with salary, legal, and other human resources issues? Then don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at McKnight Associates, Inc. We are ready to offer you hands-on human resources consulting for colleges, universities, medical centers, and organizations of all sizes.