Cost issues deter qualified graduates

November 14, 2008

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A newly released research report, from the Washington-based Institute for Higher Education Policy, concludes that many students who are qualified to attend post-secondary education in the U.S. do not attend because of the perception that financial aid will be insufficient. This is one of the most influential barriers for high-achieving students from disadvantaged groups. The key findings:

Many non-college-goers felt that they needed to work;

Some non-college-goers expressed uncertainty about their academic preparation; and

Most non-college-goers believed the cost of college was too high;

Some non-college-goers are unwilling to borrow to cover the cost of college;

Very few non-college-goers took any of the necessary steps to enroll in college.

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