Here are some new resources and news for the field of higher education.
Colleges Could Start Using “Adversity Index” In an effort to admit more students who hail from some of the nation’s most socio-economically challenged neighborhoods and high schools, colleges and universities may soon use an “adversity index” in the admissions process in addition to more standard methods such as college entrance exam scores. (Diverse: Issues in Higher Education, April 4)
Four Student Aid Experiments Will End The Department of Education will end four experimental initiatives launched under the Obama administration granting participating institutions a waiver from certain statutes concerning federal student aid. (Inside Higher Ed, April 3)
Simplification May Not Be So Simple: Gauging state alignment with the FAFSA Explores state alignment with the FAFSA and provides a synopsis of both federal- and state-level efforts related to FAFSA simplification.
Sen. Bernie Sanders Introduces New Free-College Bill Seeking to offer an alternative vision to that of the current administration, Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders unveiled new legislation Monday to make public colleges and universities tuition-free. (Inside Higher Ed)
College Presidents: Stuck Between A Rock And A Harsh Reality Last week, when Southern Illinois University revealed that its main campus in Carbondale needs to borrow money from its Edwardsville location, the news seemed shocking. Who knew SIU was in such dire straits? (NPR Illinois)
Pre-College Factors in Racial Gaps on Graduation A new study in The Journal of Higher Education finds that 61 percent of the variance on college graduation rates by race can be explained by factors in students’ pre-college experiences. (Inside Higher Ed, April 7)
Degrees Lead on Wages While some states and colleges are focused on boosting certificates as a way to increase workforce development, associate degrees continue to increase graduates’ earnings more than shorter-term credentials. (Inside Higher Ed, March 29)
