Three plans for reforming the financing of students wishing to attend college, therefore improving college affordability, are outlined: (1) improving the college loan system; (2) mitigating high tuition with high student aid; and (3) making comprehensive changes at all levels of the college finance system (the Plan of the National Commission on…

The current income tax law's effects on common elements of education financing are discussed, including scholarships, loans, employment, and related issues. In light of recent tax changes that increase the after-tax cost of education, information for maximizing remaining tax advantages is offered. (MSE)

Summarizes prior studies with a focus on untangling how changes in student financial aid policy have influenced changes in opportunity. Also recommends new strategies for lowering student loan debt, increasing federal and state cooperation in providing adequate need-based grant aid, and developing policies that target debt forgiveness for…

This exploratory study examines the factors that college students perceive are important in helping them make good financial decisions about paying for a college education. The study categorizes and summarizes students' self-reported responses to an open-ended survey question about recommendations for changes in financial aid counseling practices.…

As part of a series of hearings on the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act of 1965, the House Subcommittee on Postsecondary Education convened a hearing in Chicago, Illinois, in order to hear the recommendations of those who work directly in higher education. The witnesses testified on students loans, the difference between grants and…

This report responds to the 1992 Virginia General Assembly's request of the State Council of Higher Education to "study the efficacy and appropriateness of establishing a prepaid tuition trust program within the Commonwealth's system of higher education." They asked that the study include, at least, an examination of programs in other…

This booklet summarizes findings from the National Postsecondary Student Aid Study, concerning graduate and first-professional students. The booklet's introduction indicates that, of the 2.8 million postsecondary students enrolled in 1995-96, 56 percent were enrolled in master's degree programs, 12 percent in doctoral programs, 12 percent in…

This hearing document presents testimony comprising prepared statements and letters that address the direct loan concept (as authored by Senators Simon and Durenberger) in student financial aid, and the idea of tying repayment to income (income-contingent loan) as a means of simplifying the nation's guaranteed student loan process. Testimony…

This report presents the results of an audit of the Principal Financial Statements of the Department of Education's Federal Family Education Loan Program and its internal controls and compliance with laws and regulations for the fiscal year ended September 30, 1992. The report details the following findings: (1) the Statement of Cash Flows were…

This report presents testimony, along with prepared letters, statements, and supplemental materials, submitted before a House congressional hearing concerned with the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act of 1965 in general, and the integrity and quality of grant and loan assistance for students in particular. The testimony and statements…

This testimony before the House Subcommittee on Postsecondary Education addresses the need for improving student financial aid programs administered by the Department of Education, and in particular, the Stafford Student Loan Programs. The testimony begins with a brief review of the default problems involving student loans. Next, an examination is…

The nature of the changes in the patterns of financing and control of higher education systems which have been observed in the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries over the last decade are discussed. In particular, the report analyzes the links between expenditure patterns, costs and efficiency in higher education…

The Subcommittee met to hear testimony on the college student loan process, particularly whether, at a time of devolution of power to state and local levels, it is contradictory to continue with the relatively new Federal Direct Student Loan Program. Chairman Peter Hoekstra outlined how vital higher education has become for access to quality…

This bilingual guide (English and Spanish) provides information for migrant students on postsecondary education. The guide includes information on: (1) career planning, involving self-exploration, occupational exploration, and strategies for reaching career objectives; (2) planning for postsecondary education during high school, including a…

This resource paper provides an overview of postsecondary education financial aid for students with disabilities. Presented in a question and answer format, the paper covers the various types of financial aid, relevant technical words and phrases, and the process involved in financial aid disbursement. Particular attention is given to those…