Because free college programs make up a fast-growing segment of student aid, it’s critical to design them in a way that “fulfills their promise” to “address serious affordability challenges,” the report’s authors contend.
Promise programs are expected to make up roughly 12.1% of all state student financial aid in 2020 as they spread among the states and gain popularity with policymakers.
As a result, getting the design features right is important, the authors explain.
On one hand, properly designed and implemented programs have positive effects on student outcomes.
