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what we do

  • The Project on Student Debt

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    The Project on Student Debt works to increase public understanding of rising student debt and the implications for our families, economy, and society.

  • Keeping California's Promise

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    California’s Master Plan for higher education guarantees a place in college for every eligible student. The Institute seeks to maximize the effectiveness of this promise by ensuring students have the financial aid and student services they need to succeed, particularly at California’s community colleges.

  • College InSight

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    College InSight is a unique new web site for higher education data and research. The site is a valuable resource for anyone interested in college affordability, student debt, economic and racial diversity, student success, and other important issues in higher education.

  • Simplifying the FAFSA

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    There is widespread agreement that the current Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a barrier to college access. The Institute supports using IRS data to automatically answer income questions on the FAFSA.

  • Difficult Dialogues Initiative

    Difficult Dialogues

    The Assessment and Evaluation Development Team supports the Ford Foundation’s Difficult Dialogues Initiative by providing technical assistance and individualized consultation to grantee institutions promoting religious, cultural, and political pluralism.

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what's new

After the FAFSA

Our new report examines how the complicated process after students submit their federal financial aid application can keep them from getting grants they would otherwise qualify for. It includes recommendations for campuses and the federal government.  

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  Read the report

High HopesHigh Hopes, Big Debts (Class of 2008)

Our new fact sheet focuses on students who borrow $40,000 or more for their undergraduate education - almost twice the average debt for four-year college graduates. While still a minority, the number of students carrying such heavy debt is growing quickly.

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  Read the fact sheet

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