Topic: College Affordability & Student Debt

What’s at Stake with Pell Grants

article-cropped April 10, 2026 by Wil Del Pilar, Ph.D.

If Congress doesn’t act, the Pell Grant program faces a potential deficit of $17 billion

EdTrust Comment on the Workforce Pell Grant Program Regulation

April 09, 2026 by EdTrust

This letter is submitted in response to the Department of Education’s proposed Workforce Pell Grant eligibility rules

Protecting Students Amid Federal Attacks on Higher Education Opportunities

files April 02, 2026 by EdTrust

Given the impending threats to the future of higher education, there are opportunities for states to make policy and resource decisions that can reduce the potential impact and scope of cuts

A Guide for States on Implementing Workforce Pell Grants

compass April 02, 2026 by Sabreyna Reese, Roxanne Garza, Kyla Hurns, Tihirah Ruffin

A new guide explains how Workforce Pell expands federal financial aid to short-term, career-focused programs and how states and stakeholders can implement it effectively

Joint Letter Supporting Increased FY27 Funding for Postsecondary Student Success Grants

March 23, 2026 by EdTrust

We, the undersigned 34 organizations, write to express our support for appropriating at least $55 million for the Postsecondary Student Success Grant (PSSG) program in Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27)

Understanding the Implementation of Universal FAFSA Completion Policies in Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, and Louisiana

files March 16, 2026 by Victoria Jackson, Kyla Hurns, Paulina Fraser

A study of universal FAFSA policies in four states finds that they are most effective and equitable when combined with dedicated funding, opt-out flexibility, strong support networks, accountability systems, and policies that promote college attendance

Pell Grants Are a Lifeline for College Students. These Students Know

article-cropped March 04, 2026 by Gabriela Montell

Pell Grants help low- and middle-income students afford college each year. But students say Pell Grants don’t cover the full cost of attendance

EdTrust Comment on RISE Negotiated Rule

March 03, 2026 by EdTrust

EdTrust’s recommendations for the final RISE negotiated rule implementing several provisions of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

How Land-Grant Institutions Can Better Serve Indigenous Students

files February 11, 2026 by Durriya Ahmed, Brianna Huynh, Paulina Fraser

These institutions were founded on the premise of accessible education, but how accessible are they to Indigenous students?