College News and Views

College News and Views is a semi-monthly publication that was created to provide you with highlights on a variety of topics in the world of higher education.  If you would like to see additional topics or a greater emphasis on certain areas, just let us know.

Changes in the “No Loan” Programs for Colleges

In the last few weeks two colleges have announced that they can no longer continue the “No Loan” programs.  Williams College will drop the “No Loan” program and replace grants with loans.  Dartmouth College will drop the “No Loan” program for families with incomes greater than $75,000.  With an annual cost of $52,973 for Dartmouth and $49,880 for Williams College this means families will have to dig deeper in their pockets to pay for college.

The “No Loan” program started back in 2007 and 2008.  This was at a time when endowments were growing and there was criticism that colleges weren’t spending enough of their funds.  Then came a significant decline in the stock market and real estate values towards the latter part of 2008.  It appears that schools are now rethinking their financial aid policies and making adjustments. 

With two prominent colleges making this change, will others follow suit?  

More Students Majoring in Science

It looks like more and more students are going to college with plans to major in Science or Technology.  This may also be referred to as STEM fields which include Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. 

A study completed by the Higher Education Research Institute also known as HERI showed that the graduation rates for STEM majors was much lower than their non-STEM classmates.  What’s alarming about the study is that students who start college in STEM fields have a lower graduation rate than those who start in all other areas of study whether the degree is in a STEM or non-STEM field.  The study is trying to determine what will actually work to help students with their graduation rate.

 Advanced Placement (AP) Scores on the Rise   

In the Collegeboard’s annual report the percentage of students scoring a 3 or more and attending public schools has increased from the previous year.  In 2008, 15.2% of high school graduates scored a 3 or more and in 2009 the percentage increased to 16%. 

The Advanced Placement program is administered by the Collegeboard.  The test scores range from a 1 to 5.  This program can allow high schools students to receive college credit.  A score of 3 or more can determine college success and readiness.