Early national surveys of high school seniors are showing those who initially were bound for four-year colleges changing their first-choice schools for something less expensive. Some of those surveyed say they are thinking of giving up on going to college in the fall entirely.
The immediate concern for low-income students headed to college this fall could be coming up with the cash for enrollment deposits. But more pressing is assistance with the FAFSA as students’ parents lose jobs and the family economic situation shifts.
“The biggest concern ... is that you might have students who weren't previously low income, who now are,” Warick said. “Not only are they facing that loss of income, but if they've already done their FAFSA, they now need to contact the financial aid office to let them know there's been a change and ask for an updated financial aid package.”
Colleges and universities have become very, very expensive. This includes first, second, and third rate private schools. This includes commercial schools without accreditation. And, sadly, it includes public schools.
This is happening against a backdrop of increasing bifurcation of the economy, a student debt crisis, and a pandemic.
I can't say what I would do if I were graduating high school today. I was fortunate that my family was able to pay out of pocket for my education at public schools. We also had our choice of part time and summer jobs that adults are doing today for less pay.
All I can say is I'm grateful for the opportunities public education and my family provided me and I'm glad I don't have to face these decisions today.
