For decades Americans have debated the merits of free college. More than 20 states offer free college programs. A national program offering free college was only a few steps away from becoming reality in 2021. This is the beginning of a long-standing debate regarding whether or not college should be free.
The idea of free college is still being pursued, despite the setback suffered by the advocates. In October, as Congress was negotiating with Congress on the spending bill, the Biden administration's proposal for free community colleges was scrapped.
Closer observers agree that similar proposals for free community colleges have attracted strong bipartisan support. Douglas N. Harris, Tulane's economics professor, said in an interview that community colleges were one of the few areas where both Republicans as well as Democrats support it. He had previously worked with the Biden administration to promote free college.
The Balance examined studies on the design and operation of public funded tuition programs to get a better understanding of both the benefits and disadvantages. They also interviewed higher education policy professionals. We have compiled a list of what we know about the debate about free college in America. You can also find out how to cut college costs and get tuition free through existing programs.
Here are some key takeaways
- Research has shown that students who receive free tuition are more likely to go to college. This encourages them to do so and increases graduation rates. It also creates a better-educated workforce, as well as higher-earning consumers that can boost the economy.
- Some programs have been criticized for not paying for students' non-tuition expense, for not helping students who most need it, or for directing students towards community colleges rather than four-year programs.
- University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education maintains a searchable database of free programs. This article has a link to the searchable database.
There are many types of publicly funded college tuition programs
Before getting into the details of the free college debate. Most public-funded tuition assistance programs have a two-year limit. These are usually at community college. The way that free college programs are funded and designed can vary greatly.
- Last -dollar tuition-free: These programs will cover tuition after the student has exhausted all financial aid, including Pell Grants. These programs include most state-run free colleges. These programs usually don't cover expenses such as room and board.
- First dollars tuition-free: These programs are available to students who qualify, but they are far more common than the last-dollar programs. The student can use any financial aid they receive to pay for books or fees. California College Promise Grant (first-dollar program) waives student enrollment fees.
- Debt-free Programs: These programs cover all expenses of a student's college, including room, board and lodging. Students can graduate with no debt. They are also more rare, probably because they are expensive.
The Pros of College Being Free
Supporters often claim that college tuition programs funded by the public will eventually be paid for. This is because students are able to access better jobs and higher incomes through their education. These proponents suggest that there should be no concern about the cost of public education. Here are some arguments in favor of free college programs.
The Economy Benefits from a More educated Workforce
Morley Winograd is President of Campaign for Free College Tuition. He points out the tax and economic benefits of college graduates earning higher wages. Winograd stated that more revenue means more revenue for government. The more someone earns, the more likely they are to pay taxes.
"The country's economies get better because of the skilled workforce it has. It is better able compete globally." Because of the higher incomes of those who are better educated and more well-paid, local economies reap the benefits. Winograd explained, "That is how the economic grows."
Harris says that the return government gets from investing in free college could be significant. Harris said that the cost-benefit analysis of these items has consistently passed. The benefits are at least twice the cost when you consider the higher college attainment and the associated earnings, as well as the extra funding and resources required to make them.
Incentives for students to attend college free of cost
Students from poor backgrounds can find it difficult to convince them to go to college. This is especially true if they worry about how much money they will spend. Winograd stated that students who are unable to pay for higher education tend to be more likely to accept free college programs. He said that people who don't think they could afford college or would not otherwise consider it possible will stop and listen to the possibilities, then decide to enroll.
Harris reports that students also love the simplicity and certainty offered by free college messages. Harris stated that they didn't want students to worry about not having enough money next year. They don't know how their finances will look a few months or next year. It takes time to get a degree. That is what matters.
Michelle Dimino from Third Way Education Senior Policy Advisor said that students and families can receive a "clear message" about college through free programs. She said that this type of messaging is particularly important for low-income and first-generation students.
Free College Increases Graduate Rates and Financial Safety
Students are more likely to complete college if they have access to free tuition. Harris, for one, stated that Harris' research demonstrated a strong link between tuition-free college and higher graduation rates. "What we found was that college graduation rates at two-year colleges increased due to it. So more students graduated than they would otherwise."
Advocates also believe that people who receive free tuition to college will have a greater chance of living a happier, more fulfilling life. Winograd said that college education is almost a necessity. Employees are learning that college education is essential for success in a globalized economy. This is similar to how a high-school diploma was valued in the 20th. He said that free community college was a way to make this happen quickly, efficiently and essentially.
Cons: Why college shouldn't be free
The idea of free community college is not popular. Although many critics are concerned about the cost of such programs, others have concerns about the fairness and effectiveness of current efforts to cover college tuition. Here are some concerns regarding college programs that offer free tuition.
It would be too expensive
Criticisms of community colleges being free have raised concerns about the impact on social spending. Critics claim that community colleges don't cost nearly as much as four-year college tuition, which can sometimes run into the thousands each year. They are also less expensive than four-year colleges. They point out that community college costs can quickly mount up if paid in large amounts through a free program. According to a Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce analysis, Biden's proposal for a free college plan would have cost $49.6 Billion in its first year.
Some people argue that the funds should be used to fund students' educations.
Free College isn't really free
Free college programs are often criticized for not going far enough. This is a common concern. Even though a program may offer free tuition, students must still find ways to pay for books, room, board, transportation, high speed internet and possibly child care. Dimino says that SMS is crucial to this process. While students may apply to college or enroll, they might not realize that it will be cost-free. However, there could be unexpected fees.
These factors should be considered by policymakers when creating future free college programs. Dimino, along with other observers, fears that students might be worse off if the college they are enrolled in is not free.
Students who need them most are not eligible for free college programs
Critics say that many state-funded free college programs have a number of quirks, restrictions, and can result in students being denied or being rewarded for their wealth. State-funded free college programs don't kick-in until students have applied for financial aid. These programs provide less support to students with low incomes who are eligible for need-based aid, and more support for students with higher incomes who are not.
Community College may not be the best option for all students
Critics also fear that students will be encouraged by their community colleges to go to four-year institutions when they would have done better at a four year institution. Four-year colleges typically have more resources and can provide greater support for students in need.
Dimino added that some research shows that community college students are less likely academically to succeed than four-year students. "Statistically, data shows that students attending community colleges […] have lower outcomes such as lower graduation rates or low transfer rates between two- and four-year schools.
What the Free College Debate means for Students
A nationwide program of free college is unlikely to be implemented soon, as Congress is focusing on other priorities. However, there are some states that offer tuition-free programs. Students may be able access free college depending on their location. Although the database of Promise Programs at the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education is searchable, it contains more than 120 programs that are free for California residents.
In the meantime policymakers and school leaders might shift their attention towards equity and access to low-income students. Eileen Strempel of the University of Michigan and Stephen Handel from the University of Wisconsin published "Beyond Free College: Making higher education work for 21st century students" in 2021. This book advocates that policymakers should not focus on college access but college completion. Strempel, in an interview for The Balance, stated that there has been a lack of laser-focus on how to get people to finish their degrees.
Strempel and Handel argue against limiting college access to low-income students and instead, should be looking at the socio-economic issues that students face, including food insecurity, transportation, and child care. Strempel said, for example, "If your computer is not working, you won't be able to access your education." "It's like today's pencil."
How to Cut College Prices Now
While it is difficult to save money for college costs, there are some things you can do to lower your monthly living expenses. You can save money on college costs by paying attention to the location and the cost of living for residents who are interested in it.
You might not be able to afford the college's living costs if it is located in an expensive area. If you plan on driving to campus, make sure you check the prices of gas and public transport and figure out how much it will cost to get there and back.
Online classes are becoming more popular, so it is worth considering programs that offer lower tuition in places that are further from your home, especially if you can get your degree without ever leaving home. You may also be eligible for federal and state financial aid programs. These programs can reduce your expenses or even pay the entire cost. You should also consider scholarships and grants that are merit-based or need-based to help you pay more. No-loan colleges promise that students will graduate debt-free.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
Community college should be offered for free
There are many perspectives on the question. Free community colleges are supported by those who see the economic benefits of more educated workers and the individual benefit that financial security brings. But critics also warn about the high cost and inefficiency involved with free college programs.
What are the states that offer free college?
More than 20 countries offer tuition-free colleges programs. The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education lists 115 first-dollar community and 16 second-dollar programs. But, these programs are not available to California residents.
Is there an affordable college?
A college education is not free. Some colleges offer tuition for free, while others offer a tuition-free option. You might also consider employer-based programs. Many large employers offer tuition reimbursement for employees. Students may be eligible to receive enough financial aid, scholarships or grants to cover their entire college expenses.
