Research + News

Poll: Parents and Teens Share (Unrealistic) Dreams About College

NatinalJournalThe National Journal reports on a Heartland Monitor poll revealing that “most (students and parents) still see a college degree as ticket to the middle class. But they’re unprepared for the cost.”

From the article:

“And how do families expect to pay for all of these four-year degrees? The answer may explain why so many students end up dropping out–or taking breaks from their college studies–because of financial concerns and difficulties. Sixty percent of parents and a full 78 percent of teenagers say they are counting on grants and scholarships to help finance the cost of college education. That is no doubt the encouraging message they’re hearing from well-meaning teachers and counselors who want to nurture college dreams. But with fewer than 40 percent of college students receiving Pell Grant money–and a far smaller number benefiting from merit-based scholarships–that leaves a families with tuition-and-board sticker shock.”

Read the full report here.