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Should College Be Free? The Pros and Cons

Types of Publicly Funded College Tuition Programs

Pros: why college should be free, cons: why college should not be free, what the free college debate means for students, how to cut your college costs now, frequently asked questions (faqs).

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Americans have been debating the wisdom of free college for decades, and more than 30 states now offer some type of free college program. But it wasn't until 2021 that a nationwide free college program came close to becoming reality, re-energizing a longstanding debate over whether or not free college is a good idea. 

And despite a setback for the free-college advocates, the idea is still in play. The Biden administration's free community college proposal was scrapped from the American Families Plan . But close observers say that similar proposals promoting free community college have drawn solid bipartisan support in the past. "Community colleges are one of the relatively few areas where there's support from both Republicans and Democrats," said Tulane economics professor Douglas N. Harris, who has previously consulted with the Biden administration on free college, in an interview with The Balance. 

To get a sense of the various arguments for and against free college, as well as the potential impacts on U.S. students and taxpayers, The Balance combed through studies investigating the design and implementation of publicly funded free tuition programs and spoke with several higher education policy experts. Here's what we learned about the current debate over free college in the U.S.—and more about how you can cut your college costs or even get free tuition through existing programs.

Key Takeaways

• Research shows free tuition programs encourage more students to attend college and increase graduation rates, which creates a better-educated workforce and higher-earning consumers who can help boost the economy. 
• Some programs are criticized for not paying students’ non-tuition expenses, not benefiting students who need assistance most, or steering students toward community college instead of four-year programs.  
• If you want to find out about free programs in your area, the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education has a searchable database. You’ll find the link further down in this article. 

Before diving into the weeds of the free college debate, it's important to note that not all free college programs are alike. Most publicly funded tuition assistance programs are restricted to the first two years of study, typically at community colleges. Free college programs also vary widely in the ways they’re designed, funded, and structured:

• Last-dollar tuition-free programs : These programs cover any remaining tuition after a student has used up other financial aid , such as Pell Grants. Most state-run free college programs fall into this category. However, these programs don’t typically help with room and board or other expenses.
• First-dollar tuition-free programs : These programs pay for students' tuition upfront, although they’re much rarer than last-dollar programs. Any remaining financial aid that a student receives can then be applied to other expenses, such as books and fees. The California College Promise Grant is a first-dollar program because it waives enrollment fees for eligible students.
• Debt-free programs : These programs pay for all of a student's college expenses , including room and board, guaranteeing that they can graduate debt-free. But they’re also much less common, likely due to their expense.  

Proponents often argue that publicly funded college tuition programs eventually pay for themselves, in part by giving students the tools they need to find better jobs and earn higher incomes than they would with a high school education. The anticipated economic impact, they suggest, should help ease concerns about the costs of public financing education. Here’s a closer look at the arguments for free college programs.

A More Educated Workforce Benefits the Economy

Morley Winograd, President of the Campaign for Free College Tuition, points to the economic and tax benefits that result from the higher wages of college grads. "For government, it means more revenue," said Winograd in an interview with The Balance—the more a person earns, the more they will likely pay in taxes . In addition, "the country's economy gets better because the more skilled the workforce this country has, the better [it’s] able to compete globally." Similarly, local economies benefit from a more highly educated, better-paid workforce because higher earners have more to spend. "That's how the economy grows," Winograd explained, “by increasing disposable income."

According to Harris, the return on a government’s investment in free college can be substantial. "The additional finding of our analysis was that these things seem to consistently pass a cost-benefit analysis," he said. "The benefits seem to be at least double the cost in the long run when we look at the increased college attainment and the earnings that go along with that, relative to the cost and the additional funding and resources that go into them." 

Free College Programs Encourage More Students to Attend

Convincing students from underprivileged backgrounds to take a chance on college can be a challenge, particularly when students are worried about overextending themselves financially. But free college programs tend to have more success in persuading students to consider going, said Winograd, in part because they address students' fears that they can't afford higher education . "People who wouldn't otherwise think that they could go to college, or who think the reason they can't is [that] it's too expensive, [will] stop, pay attention, listen, decide it's an opportunity they want to take advantage of, and enroll," he said.

According to Harris, students also appear to like the certainty and simplicity of the free college message. "They didn't want to have to worry that next year they were not going to have enough money to pay their tuition bill," he said. "They don't know what their finances are going to look like a few months down the road, let alone next year, and it takes a while to get a degree. So that matters." 

Free college programs can also help send "a clear and tangible message" to students and their families that a college education is attainable for them, said Michelle Dimino, an Education Director with Third Way. This kind of messaging is especially important to first-generation and low-income students, she said. 

Free College Increases Graduation Rates and Financial Security

Free tuition programs appear to improve students’ chances of completing college. For example, Harris noted that his research found a meaningful link between free college tuition and higher graduation rates. "What we found is that it did increase college graduation at the two-year college level, so more students graduated than otherwise would have." 

Free college tuition programs also give people a better shot at living a richer, more comfortable life, say advocates. "It's almost an economic necessity to have some college education," noted Winograd. Similar to the way a high school diploma was viewed as crucial in the 20th century, employees are now learning that they need at least two years of college to compete in a global, information-driven economy. "Free community college is a way of making that happen quickly, effectively, and essentially," he explained. 

Free community college isn’t a universally popular idea. While many critics point to the potential costs of funding such programs, others identify issues with the effectiveness and fairness of current attempts to cover students’ college tuition. Here’s a closer look at the concerns about free college programs.

It Would Be Too Expensive

The idea of free community college has come under particular fire from critics who worry about the cost of social spending. Since community colleges aren't nearly as expensive as four-year colleges—often costing thousands of dollars a year—critics argue that individuals can often cover their costs using other forms of financial aid . But, they point out, community college costs would quickly add up when paid for in bulk through a free college program: Biden’s proposed free college plan would have cost $49.6 billion in its first year, according to an analysis from Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce. Some opponents argue that the funds could be put to better use in other ways, particularly by helping students complete their degrees.

Free College Isn't Really Free

One of the most consistent concerns that people have voiced about free college programs is that they don’t go far enough. Even if a program offers free tuition, students will need to find a way to pay for other college-related expenses , such as books, room and board, transportation, high-speed internet, and, potentially, child care. "Messaging is such a key part of this," said Dimino. Students "may apply or enroll in college, understanding it's going to be free, but then face other unexpected charges along the way." 

It's important for policymakers to consider these factors when designing future free college programs. Otherwise, Dimino and other observers fear that students could potentially wind up worse off if they enroll and invest in attending college and then are forced to drop out due to financial pressures. 

Free College Programs Don’t Help the Students Who Need Them Most

Critics point out that many free college programs are limited by a variety of quirks and restrictions, which can unintentionally shut out deserving students or reward wealthier ones. Most state-funded free college programs are last-dollar programs, which don’t kick in until students have applied financial aid to their tuition. That means these programs offer less support to low-income students who qualify for need-based aid—and more support for higher-income students who don’t.

Community College May Not Be the Best Path for All Students

Some critics also worry that all students will be encouraged to attend community college when some would have been better off at a four-year institution. Four-year colleges tend to have more resources than community colleges and can therefore offer more support to high-need students. 

In addition, some research has shown that students at community colleges are less likely to be academically successful than students at four-year colleges, said Dimino. "Statistically, the data show that there are poorer outcomes for students at community colleges […] such as lower graduation rates and sometimes low transfer rates from two- to four-year schools." 

With Congress focused on other priorities, a nationwide free college program is unlikely to happen anytime soon. However, some states and municipalities offer free tuition programs, so students may be able to access some form of free college, depending on where they live. A good resource is the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education’s searchable database of Promise Programs , which lists more than 100 free community college programs, though the majority are limited to California residents.

In the meantime, school leaders and policymakers may shift their focus to other access and equity interventions for low-income students. For example, higher education experts Eileen Strempel and Stephen Handel published a book in 2021 titled "Beyond Free College: Making Higher Education Work for 21st Century Students." The book argues that policymakers should focus more strongly on college completion, not just college access. "There hasn't been enough laser-focus on how we actually get people to complete their degrees," noted Strempel in an interview with The Balance. 

Rather than just improving access for low-income college students, Strempel and Handel argue that decision-makers should instead look more closely at the social and economic issues that affect students , such as food and housing insecurity, child care, transportation, and personal technology. For example, "If you don't have a computer, you don't have access to your education anymore," said Strempel. "It's like today's pencil."

Saving money on college costs can be challenging, but you can take steps to reduce your cost of living. For example, if you're interested in a college but haven't yet enrolled, pay close attention to where it's located and how much residents typically pay for major expenses, such as housing, utilities, and food. If the college is located in a high-cost area, it could be tough to justify the living expenses you'll incur. Similarly, if you plan to commute, take the time to check gas or public transportation prices and calculate how much you'll likely have to spend per month to go to and from campus several times a week. 

Now that more colleges offer classes online, it may also be worth looking at lower-cost programs in areas that are farther from where you live, particularly if they allow you to graduate without setting foot on campus. Also, check out state and federal financial aid programs that can help you slim down your expenses, or, in some cases, pay for them completely. Finally, look into need-based and merit-based grants and scholarships that can help you cover even more of your expenses. Also, consider applying to no-loan colleges , which promise to help students graduate without going into debt.

Should community college be free?

It’s a big question with varying viewpoints. Supporters of free community college cite the economic contributions of a more educated workforce and the individual benefit of financial security, while critics caution against the potential expense and the inefficiency of last-dollar free college programs. 

What states offer free college?

More than 30 states offer some type of tuition-free college program, including Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Michigan, Nevada, New York, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Virginia, and Washington State. The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education lists over 100 last-dollar community college programs and 16 first-dollar community college programs, though the majority are limited to California residents.

Is there a free college?

There is no such thing as a truly free college education. But some colleges offer free tuition programs for students, and more than 30 states offer some type of tuition-free college program. In addition, students may also want to check out employer-based programs. A number of big employers now offer to pay for their employees' college tuition . Finally, some students may qualify for enough financial aid or scholarships to cover most of their college costs.

Scholarships360. " Which States Offer Tuition-Free Community College? "

The White House. “ Build Back Better Framework ,” see “Bringing Down Costs, Reducing Inflationary Pressures, and Strengthening the Middle Class.”

The White House. “ Fact Sheet: How the Build Back Better Plan Will Create a Better Future for Young Americans ,” see “Education and Workforce Opportunities.”

Coast Community College District. “ California College Promise Grant .”

Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce. “ The Dollars and Cents of Free College ,” see “Biden’s Free College Plan Would Pay for Itself Within 10 Years.”

Third Way. “ Why Free College Could Increase Inequality .”

Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce. “ The Dollars and Cents of Free College ,” see “Free-College Programs Have Different Effects on Race and Class Equity.”

University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education. “ College Promise Programs: A Comprehensive Catalog of College Promise Programs in the United States .”

19+ Reasons College Should be Free (Pros and Cons)

Imagine owing more money than you can even think of, right after you finish school. Sounds like a nightmare, doesn't it?

Well, for millions of people, this isn't just a bad dream—it's reality. In the United States, the total student loan debt has reached a mind-blowing $1.7 trillion! That's trillion, with a 'T'.

It's like buying about 340,000 really fancy houses or going on a lifetime supply of vacations but instead, it's money owed by students.

College is free in some places in the world, and even in some U.S. States. But most college costs tens or hundreds-of-thousands of dollars. 3 main reasons supporters think college should be free are: the rising cost of tuition, increasing equality, and the social benefits from a more educated populace.

Should college be free? You might think, "Sure, who doesn't like free stuff?" But it's not as simple as that. The price and experience of college is a social construct that can be really hard to change.

We'll explore how college got so expensive in the first place, what people are saying about making it free, and examples from places that have already tried it.

The Rising Cost of College Tuition

Once Upon a Time: A Glimpse of the Past

Believe it or not, attending college was once a much more affordable dream for many Americans. If we set our time-travel dials to the 1970s, the average annual tuition cost at a four-year public university was approximately $358—yes, you read that right!

When we adjust for inflation, that would be around $2,200 today. Now contrast this with the modern price tag: according to the Education Data Initiative , the average cost of tuition as of 2023 was $9,678 for in-state students and a whopping $27,091 for out-of-state students at public universities. For private universities, the annual average shot up to around $38,768.

Rocketing to New Heights: What's Driving the Cost?

The burning question is, why have these numbers skyrocketed? Multiple factors come into play.

First and foremost, colleges and universities have expanded their amenities and facilities. Students these days are often welcomed with state-of-the-art gyms, luxe dorms, and even gourmet dining options. While these add-ons certainly make college life more appealing, they also hike up the overall cost.

Another culprit is the administrative bloat. The number of non-teaching staff at many institutions has grown significantly. From 1975 to 2005, the number of administrators and managerial employees in higher education institutions more than doubled, according to the Department of Education. Their salaries, benefits, and offices add another layer of expense that is often passed on to students.

State funding—or rather, the lack of it—also shares the blame. For decades, state governments have been reducing their contributions to public higher education. A report from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities revealed that between 2008 and 2018, state funding for two- and four-year colleges was slashed by nearly $7 billion after adjusting for inflation.

The Heavy Price of Loans: A Debt-Fueled Future

The rising costs inevitably lead students and families to the daunting world of student loans. It doesn't matter if you are a trained skillsperson or a white-collar businessman , college is expensive and loans don't pay themselves.

As of 2023, about 45.3 million Americans are shackled with student loan debt , which has crossed the staggering $1.77 trillion mark.

To give you a clearer picture: the average borrower from the Class of 2021 graduated with approximately $29,100 in student loan debt. And 54% of the 2021 Class held this debt.

But what does this debt mean in real-life terms? Imagine you're a 22-year-old fresh out of college with that average debt. Even if you manage to land a job right away, a good chunk of your paycheck will go to loan payments for years to come. For some, this means delaying major life milestones like buying a house, getting married, or starting a family.

So, clearly, something needs to be done. Let's get into the specific reasons some people believe college should be free. Later, we'll talk about the various debates around free college tuition.

Economic Reasons for Free College

• Increased Access to Higher Education : Making college free would mean more people could go to college without the fear of financial burden, increasing accessibility for low and middle-income families.
• Higher Earning Potential : College graduates, on average, earn more than those with just a high school diploma. This means they contribute more in taxes over their lifetimes.
• Reduced Student Loan Debt : A large portion of the U.S. population is struggling with student loan debt, which has economic repercussions like delaying the ability to buy a home or start a family.
• Boosts Economy : A better-educated workforce can contribute more effectively to the economy, leading to faster growth and increased innovation.
• Less Reliance on Social Programs : People with higher education are less likely to rely on social programs like food stamps and unemployment benefits, saving the government money in the long run.
• Global Competitiveness : To compete globally, a country needs a well-educated workforce. Free college could be a step toward that goal.
• Reduced Unemployment : Higher education often leads to higher employability and can help in reducing overall unemployment rates.

Social Reasons for Free College

• Social Mobility : Access to higher education is key for upward social mobility. Free college can level the playing field for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Increased Civic Engagement : Studies have shown that college graduates are more likely to vote, volunteer, and engage in civic activities.
• Equality : Making college free can help close the racial, gender, and socio-economic gaps in higher education attendance and graduation rates.
• Better Health : Higher education is correlated with better health outcomes, including longer life expectancy and better mental health.
• Diversity : Free college can lead to a more diverse workforce, as more people from various backgrounds have the opportunity to attend college and enter fields they might otherwise not have considered.
• Educational Freedom : Students might feel freer to pursue degrees in the humanities, arts, or social sciences, instead of opting for degrees that they perceive will "pay off" more quickly to cover their student loan debts.

Moral and Philosophical Reasons for Free College

• Right to Education : Some argue that, like K-12 education, higher education is a right and should be available to all, irrespective of income.
• Public Good : Education is often cited as a public good that benefits society as a whole, not just the individual receiving the education.
• Human Capital : In the knowledge economy, human capital is one of the most valuable resources. Free college can be seen as an investment in a country's human capital.

Practical Reasons for Free College

• Simplification of Financial Aid : A free college system could potentially simplify the complicated financial aid system, making it easier for students to apply and receive support.
• Teacher Recruitment : If college is free, the teaching profession might attract more qualified candidates who are currently deterred by the prospect of low salaries combined with high student debt.
• Encourages Lifelong Learning : Without the barrier of cost, adults and older citizens might be more inclined to return to school to upskill or change careers, fostering a culture of lifelong learning.

Debates Around Free College

The idea of making college free has sparked passionate arguments, both for and against. On the one hand, proponents argue that free college can transform society, making it more equitable and prosperous. Detractors, however, counter that it's not as simple or as financially viable as it sounds.

The Pros: Where Supporters Stand

Equality and Access : Advocates often point out that free college would make higher education accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial background. Data from the Pell Institute shows that in 2016, only 11% of low-income students graduated with a bachelor's degree within six years, compared to 58% of their higher-income peers.

Economic Upliftment : Free college could be an investment in human capital, leading to a more skilled workforce. According to Georgetown University's Center on Education and the Workforce, 65% of all jobs in the American economy will require education beyond high school by 2027.

Reducing the Debt Burden : With student loan debt surpassing $1.77 trillion, supporters argue that free college could alleviate this massive financial strain affecting millions of Americans.

The Cons: Where Critics Stand

Cost to Taxpayers : One of the most common arguments against free college is the cost. Critics point out that somebody has to pay for it, and that "somebody" is often the taxpayer. According to the National Bureau of Economic Research, free public college would cost around $79 billion a year .

Quality Concerns : Some worry that making college free could lead to overcrowded classes and reduced educational quality. Already, according to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center , only about 60% of college students complete their bachelor's degrees within six years.

Fairness Question : Critics argue that free college could be seen as a subsidy for wealthier families who can already afford tuition, thereby increasing income inequality rather than reducing it.

The Middle Ground: Compromise Solutions

Some experts propose middle-ground solutions like income-based repayment plans or free community college as a stepping stone.

For instance, Tennessee's free community college program, Tennessee Promise , has seen considerable success since its inception in 2014. The program has increased college enrollment among high school graduates by 4.6%.

International Examples: What Can We Learn?

Several countries like Germany, Norway, and Finland offer free higher education and have seen positive societal impacts.

In Germany, where tuition is free for undergraduate students, the percentage of young people who attend university is higher than the U.S. However, critics note that these countries often have higher tax rates to fund such programs.

Public Opinion: What Do People Think?

Interestingly, public opinion is shifting in favor of free college. A 2023 poll from The Campaign for Free College Tuition showed that 70-81% of voters in the U.S. support making public colleges and universities tuition-free. The numbers are even higher among younger demographics, suggesting that the idea is gaining traction.

Economic Benefits of Free College

More money in your pocket: higher wages.

Let's start with something everyone can understand: money. If you graduate from college, you're likely to earn more money than someone who didn't.

In 2022, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the average weekly earnings for someone with a bachelor's degree were about $1,334, while someone with just a high school diploma earned around $899. That's a big difference! Over a lifetime, college graduates could earn up to $1 million more than those who only finished high school.

Bye-Bye, Student Loans!

Imagine not having to worry about paying back a big student loan every month. Wouldn't that be great?

According to data, around 45 million Americans owe a massive $1.7 trillion in student loans. That's trillion with a "T"! These loans can stick around for years, making it hard for people to buy homes, start families, or even just enjoy life without a mountain of debt hanging over them. Free college would mean that students wouldn't start their adult lives deep in the hole.

A Bigger, Better Economy

When people earn more, they also spend more. And when they spend more, the whole economy gets a boost.

The more you earn, the more you pay in taxes, which means more money for public projects and services like roads, schools, and hospitals. Remember that study from Georgetown University's Center on Education and the Workforce says that by 2027, about 65% of all jobs will require some form of higher education? That means we need a workforce that's ready for those jobs.

Less Stress on Social Services

People with college degrees are less likely to need things like unemployment benefits or food stamps.

Only about 2% of people with a bachelor's degree rely on food stamps , compared to 12% of those with only a high school diploma. By making college free, we're actually saving money in the long run because fewer people would need to use these kinds of social services.

Businesses Love It, Too!

You might be surprised to hear this, but a lot of businesses actually like the idea of free college. Why? Because they want workers who are skilled and educated.

Companies often spend a lot of money on training new employees. If more people had access to college, businesses could save on these costs and get employees who are ready to hit the ground running.

A Snowball Effect: More Benefits Down the Road

Making college free could have a snowball effect. That means one good thing leads to another, and another.

For example, if more people can go to college, that could lead to more entrepreneurs starting new businesses. Those new businesses would create more jobs. And guess what? More jobs mean a stronger economy!

Investing in Our Future

In the end, free college isn't just a nice idea; it's a smart investment in our country's future. It's like planting a seed. You water it, take care of it, and watch it grow. Over time, that small seed turns into a tree that provides shade, fruit, and even cleaner air.

Just like that tree, the benefits of free college could grow and touch many parts of our lives, making the country a better place for everyone.

Social Benefits of Free College

More than just money: the bigger picture.

When we talk about free college, it's easy to focus on dollars and cents. But what about the stuff that's harder to put a price tag on? We're talking about the good things that can happen in our communities and society if more people could go to college without worrying about the cost. Let's dive in!

Leveling the Playing Field: Greater Equality

First up is equality. Right now, your chances of going to college often depend on how much money your family has. That's not fair, is it? Free college could be a game-changer. It would give everybody a fair shot at getting a higher education, no matter where they come from.

Breaking the Chain: Ending the Cycle of Poverty

Education is like a key that can unlock a better future. For many people, it's a way out of poverty. When you're educated, you're more likely to get a good job, which means you're less likely to struggle with money. And guess what? That goodness doesn't stop with you. When you do better, your kids are more likely to do better, too. It's a cycle, but a good one!

A Smarter Society: Better Decision-Making

When people are educated, they make better decisions. That includes everything from picking the right foods to eat to understanding complex issues like climate change or social justice. An educated public is better at making choices that benefit everyone. This is crucial, especially when it comes to voting for our leaders.

Healthier Lives: A Boost for Public Health

Did you know that people with higher levels of education tend to live healthier lives? Yep, it's true! According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults with a bachelor's degree or higher are less likely to smoke and more likely to exercise compared to those with less education. If more people could go to college, we could end up with a healthier nation.

Strengthening Communities: More Civic Engagement

Here's another cool benefit: educated people are more likely to be involved in their communities. They're more likely to volunteer, attend public meetings, and even join local organizations. A study by the College Board Research found that 40% of adults with a bachelor's degree volunteered, compared to only 19% of high school graduates.

Happier Lives: Boosting Mental Health

Last but not least, let's talk about happiness. Education can lead to better mental health. When people have good jobs and stable lives, they're less likely to suffer from stress and anxiety. And who doesn't want to be happier?

A Society We All Want to Live In

Free college can do more than just help individuals; it can help all of us. From making society more equal and smarter to improving public health and even boosting our spirits, the social benefits of free college could make our country a better place to live for everyone.

Examples of Places Where College is Free or Subsidized

First off, let's get something straight: free or very affordable college isn't just a pie-in-the-sky dream. It's real, and it's happening in different parts of the world. Some places even have it right here in the United States! Let's take a closer look at these examples to see what we can learn.

A Taste of Tennessee: Free Community College

Let's start close to home with Tennessee. Yup, you heard right! In Tennessee, they have a program called the Tennessee Promise. High school graduates can go to community college for two years without paying a cent in tuition.

Guess what? Since this program started in 2014, college enrollment shot up by 4.6%, according to a study in the Journal of Policy Analysis and Management.

New York's Excelsior Program

New York State offers the Excelsior Scholarship, a program that makes public colleges tuition-free for families earning less than $125,000 a year. However, there's a catch: after graduating, students must live and work in New York for the same number of years they received the scholarship. If not, the scholarship turns into a loan.

Across the Pond: Germany's Example

Let's hop over the ocean to Germany, where tuition for undergraduate students is free at public universities. That even goes for international students! And it's not like these are second-rate schools. Some German universities are ranked among the top in the world.

The Nordic Model: Sweden, Norway, and Finland

Heading north, countries like Sweden, Norway, and Finland also offer free higher education. Students only pay a small administrative fee each semester, which is usually less than $100. These countries believe that everyone has the right to education, regardless of their bank balance.

The South American Surprise: Argentina and Brazil

Now, let's fly across the globe to South America. Countries like Argentina and Brazil offer free or very low-cost higher education. In Brazil, the best universities are actually the public ones, and they're free! However, it's super competitive to get in.

The Catch: Higher Taxes and Competitive Entry

Now, it's important to note that free college often comes with its own set of challenges. For example, countries that offer free tuition usually have higher taxes. Plus, getting into these colleges can be super tough because so many people want to go.

Lessons We Can Learn

So, what can we take away from all this? First, free or low-cost college is totally doable. Second, each place has its own way of making it work, whether it's through higher taxes, tough entrance exams, or special rules like staying in the state after graduation.

A World of Possibilities

As you can see, the idea of free or subsidized college isn't just a pipe dream; it's a reality in many places. These examples show that there are different paths to the same goal: making higher education accessible to everyone.

How Can College Education be Free?

We've talked a lot about why free college is a good idea. But now comes the million-dollar question: How do we actually make it happen? Don't worry; people have been thinking hard about this, and there are some pretty cool ideas out there.

Tax the Super Rich: A Popular Suggestion

One idea that's getting a lot of attention is taxing the super-rich. That means the government would take a little extra money from people who have a whole lot of it and use that to pay for free college.

For example, Senator Elizabeth Warren proposed a 2% annual tax on households with a net worth between $50 million and $1 billion. According to estimates, this could raise around $2.75 trillion over 10 years. That's more than enough to make public colleges free and even help with other things like healthcare!

Closing Tax Loopholes: Every Penny Counts

You might not know this, but there are all sorts of ways people and companies can avoid paying taxes. These are called "tax loopholes," and they can add up to a lot of money. Closing these loopholes could free up extra funds that could be used for education.

Cutting Wasteful Spending: Trim the Fat

Another idea is to look at where the government is already spending money and see if any of it could be better used for education. Maybe there are programs that aren't really working or areas where the government is spending more than it needs to. By "trimming the fat," we could find the money for free college without raising taxes.

Partnerships with Private Companies

What if businesses chipped in to help make college free? Some companies already offer scholarships or have programs to help their employees go back to school. Expanding these partnerships could be a win-win: companies get educated workers, and students get to go to college for free or at a lower cost.

State and Federal Programs

Making college free doesn't have to be something that only the federal government does. States can get in on the action too! In fact, some states like Tennessee and New York have already started their own programs. The federal government could help by matching the money states put in, making it easier for them to offer free or reduced tuition.

Sliding Scale Tuition: Pay What You Can

Here's another idea: what if the cost of college was based on how much your family can afford? Some colleges are already doing this. They look at your family's income and then decide how much you should pay. That way, people who can afford to pay more do, and those who can't, pay less or nothing at all.

Multiple Roads to the Same Destination

As you can see, there's no one-size-fits-all solution to making college free. But that's a good thing! It means we have lots of options to explore. The most important thing is to get started. After all, the best way to make free college a reality is to take the first step, no matter how small.

Whew! We've covered a lot of ground, haven't we? From the rising cost of college tuition to the debates and benefits, all the way to real-life examples and ways to make it happen—free college is a big topic! But when you connect all the dots, one thing becomes super clear: the time for free college is now.

Imagine a world where everybody has an equal shot at higher education. A world where your future isn't decided by the size of your bank account, but by your hard work, talent, and dreams. Sounds pretty great, right? And guess what? It's totally possible. Countries around the world are already doing it, and some places in the United States are giving it a shot, too.

And let's not forget the ripple effect of free college. It's not just good for students; it's good for everyone! From boosting the economy and leveling the social playing field to creating a smarter, healthier, and happier society—free college could be the key to solving a lot of our problems.

Of course, making college free won't be easy. There are challenges to face and questions to answer. How will we pay for it? How will it affect the quality of education? These are important questions, and we'll need smart, creative solutions to answer them. But the good news is, we've got options, lots of them!

Like any big journey, the road to free college starts with a single step. Maybe that step is talking to your friends and family about why it's a good idea. Or maybe it's writing to your local politicians to tell them why it's important. Whatever that first step is for you, now's the time to take it.

The idea of free college has been around for a while, but it's never been more important than it is today. With the cost of tuition soaring and the benefits clearer than ever, there's no reason to wait. So let's roll up our sleeves, put our heads together, and make free college a reality for everyone. Because the best investment we can make is in our future.

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Is free college a good idea? Increasingly, evidence says yes

Subscribe to the brown center on education policy newsletter, douglas n. harris douglas n. harris nonresident senior fellow - governance studies , brown center on education policy , professor and chair, department of economics - tulane university.

May 10, 2021

• 10 min read

In just a few short years, the idea of free college has moved from a radical idea to mainstream Democratic thinking. President Biden made free college one of his core campaign planks , and one that the first lady has been promoting for years. In his recent address to Congress, the president also signaled that he is ready for legislative action on a scaled-back version of the idea as part of his American Families Plan .

Two weeks ago, the nonprofit College Promise (CP)—led by Martha Kanter, who served as President Obama’s undersecretary for education—also released a proposal that will influence the free college debate. (Full disclosure: I previously advised the Biden campaign and presently advise CP, but have received no compensation for these efforts.)

In today’s polarized environment, the free college idea stands out for its bipartisan support. A majority of self-identified Republicans has supported the notion of free college in some polls. In fact, one of the first such statewide programs was put in place by Bill Haslam, the former Republican governor of Tennessee. While this could go the way of Obamacare, which faced strong GOP congressional opposition despite the law’s origins with Republican Mitt Romney, free college seems different. Biden’s latest plan only applies to community colleges, which focus on career and vocational education of the sort Republicans support, as opposed to universities, which many Republicans view as hostile battlegrounds in a culture war.

But I am less interested in the politics than the evidence of effectiveness. I have studied college access for many years and run two randomized control trials of financial aid , which produced some of the first causal evidence on free college in Milwaukee. Two years ago, Brookings released the first installment of the Milwaukee work, which I carried out with a team of researchers. Since then, we have collected more data and learned more about how students responded over time. Below, I summarize our just-released study (co-authored with Jonathan Mills), compare our results to other financial aid programs, and then discuss implications for the Biden and CP proposals. Consequently, I conclude that the evidence increasingly favors free college and “open access aid” more generally.

What Did We Learn in Milwaukee?

I developed The Degree Project (TDP) in 2009 as a demonstration program in partnership between the nonprofit Ascendium (then known as the Great Lakes Higher Education Corporation and Affiliates) and Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS). TDP offered all first-time 9 th graders in half of MPS high schools $12,000 for college as “last-dollar” aid. Students could use the funds for college if they graduated from high school on time with a GPA of 2.5 and a class attendance rate of 90%. Also, as is the norm with free college programs, students had to fill out the FAFSA and have at least one dollar of unmet need. The aid could be used to attend any of the 66 public, in-state, two- or four-year colleges in Wisconsin. Ascendium provided up to $31 million to fund the grant and, as the main program administrator, sent regular letters to remind students about the program and its requirements. The organization also worked with school counselors to support students becoming eligible for the funds and preparing for college.

TDP was announced to students in the fall of 2011. Using anonymized data, we then tracked students’ high school, college, and life outcomes for eight years, and we recently received data extending through when students were roughly 22 years old. As a rare randomized trial, we could estimate the effects by comparing the control and treatment group outcomes. Here is what we found:

• For students who met the performance requirements, the program increased graduation from two-year colleges by 3 percentage points . This might seem small, but the denominator here is comprised of low-income 9 th graders. Half of the control group did not even graduate from high school, let alone college. The effect amounts to a 25% increase in two-year degrees.
• The framing and design of the program as free two-year college changed student decisions in ways consistent with what free college advocates suggest. The $12,000 maximum award amount was selected because it was sufficient to cover tuition and fees for a two-year college degree. The fact that TDP made two-year college free, but only reduced the cost of four-year college, was clearly communicated to students. This appears to explain one of our main results: Student enrollments shifted from four-year to two-year colleges. This is noteworthy given that students could use the funds at either two- or four-year colleges. In fact, students likely would have been able to use more of the $12,000 if they had shifted to four-year colleges. The only plausible reason for shifting to two-year colleges is that they were really attracted to the idea of free college.
• The “early commitment” nature of the program had some modest positive effects on some high school outcomes . Students learned about TDP in their 9 th grade year, giving them time to change their high school behaviors and college plans. Although it did not improve high school academic achievement, we find that TDP increased college expectations and the steps students took to prepare for college. TDP recipients also reported working harder because of the program (even though this did not show up in the academic measures). This highlights the fact that free college might also help address not only college-going rates, but the long-term stagnancy in high school outcomes.
• The merit requirements undermined the program’s effectiveness . Though the 2.5 GPA and 90% attendance and other requirements were arguably modest, only 21% of eligible students ended up meeting them. So, they ended up excluding many students. We also tested the two main ways that the merit requirements could have been helpful: (a) merit requirements might provide incentives for students to work hard during high school and better prepare for college, and (b) merit requirements might target aid to students who respond to it most. We find no evidence of either benefit. While students did work harder (see point [3] above), this appears to be due to other elements of the program, not the merit requirements.

Overall, these results suggest that aid is most effective when it is “open access”—that is, aid with early commitment and free college framing, but no merit requirements.

What about the evidence beyond Milwaukee?

Our study also reviews other research on financial aid, including federal aid, state merit aid programs, and the newer “promise scholarship” programs that mimic free college. Our study is not alone in finding that financial aid improves student outcomes. In fact, the vast majority of the most rigorous studies find positive effects on college attendance and college graduation. Given the strong average benefits of college, we can expect follow-up studies to show effects on employment earnings, voting, and other outcomes.

What about the costs? Open access aid is more expensive to be sure. More students receive aid and the aid levels per students are larger than traditional financial aid. Is it worth it? Our analysis suggests it is. We carried out new cost-benefit analyses of multiple programs, including TDP, but also other actively studied programs in: Kalamazoo, Michigan; Knox County, Tennessee; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and one statewide program in Nebraska. We also used estimates of the average effects of aid taken from prior literature reviews. All of these programs pass a cost-benefit test. That is, the effects on college outcomes, and the effects of college outcomes on future earnings, is much larger than the cost to the government and society as a whole. Moreover, it appears that benefits-per-dollar-of-cost are at least as high with open access aid as with more restricted programs. This means that open access aid provides greater total benefits to the community as a whole.

Back to the Free College Proposals

What do these results mean for President Biden’s and CP’s proposals? The table below provides a side-by-side comparison. The main difference is the level of detail. This reflects that the CP plan was designed to align with, and flesh out, the Biden campaign proposal. Perhaps the only substantive difference is that the CP proposal (and the Milwaukee program) includes private colleges. The Biden campaign documents exclude private colleges, though the American Families Plan just says “free community college,” signaling alignment with the CP plan. Both proposals are clearly in the category of open access aid.

There are numerous similarities between these provisions and the Milwaukee program that my team and I studied. All three programs make two-year college free (or nearly so) for all students without income requirements and through early commitment of aid. All three require the FAFSA and high school graduation. Importantly, unlike both the Biden and CP proposals, the Milwaukee program had merit requirements, which undermined its success. This is partly why our evidence is so relevant to the current debate.

Some might wonder why the president has scaled back the proposal to just free community college. This reflects that the idea of free college—even the “scaled back” version—is such a marked departure from past policy, especially at the federal level. Free community college alone would still be arguably the largest shift in federal higher education policy in the past half-century.

Caveats and Concluding Thoughts

We cannot make policy from evidence alone, but it can and should play a key role. Sometimes, policy ideas have such limited evidence of effectiveness that it is difficult to make any plausible case for a large-scale, national program. In other cases, there is enough promise for pilot studies and competitive grants to establish efficacy. With free college, we seem to be well beyond that point. In addition to decades of results on general financial aid programs, we have a growing number of studies on state and local programs that all show positive evidence—the “laboratory of democracy” at work. The idea of a large, federal free-college program therefore has more and more credibility.

A decade ago, it was not at all obvious that this is what the evidence would show. There was really no evidence on free college programs when we started this project back in 2009. Also, there were good reasons to expect that such a large increase in aid would suffer from “diminishing returns”—the idea that the next dollar is less effective than the previous one. This could have made free college more costly than the benefits could justify. Now, we know better.

I do still worry a bit about other factors and challenges. For example, the above analyses can only capture the immediate effects of financial aid, yet a federal free college program is such a marked departure in policy that it could alter political and market forces operating on higher education in unpredictable ways, perhaps even lowering college spending and quality. Also, if the proposal remains focused on community colleges, then this will shift students out of four-year colleges and into colleges that currently have very low completion rates. There are also other ways to increase college affordability and access that do not require free college (e.g., increased Pell Grants and income-based loan repayment), some of which target funds more narrowly to the most disadvantaged students. And there are many details to be worked out as the president’s allies in Congress try to generate sufficient support without (a) sacrificing core principles, or (b) creating new problems that can arise when grafting new federal programs on to widely varying state contexts.

Still, it is not often that an idea comes around that addresses a widely acknowledged problem and has both research support and a fair degree of bipartisan political support. The stars seem aligned to make some form of national free college a reality. The more evidence we see, the more that would seem to be a step forward.

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Should Higher Education Be Free?

• Vijay Govindarajan
• Jatin Desai

Disruptive new models offer an alternative to expensive tuition.

In the United States, our higher education system is broken. Since 1980, we’ve seen a 400% increase in the cost of higher education, after adjustment for inflation — a higher cost escalation than any other industry, even health care. We have recently passed the trillion dollar mark in student loan debt in the United States.

• Vijay Govindarajan is the Coxe Distinguished Professor at Dartmouth College’s Tuck School of Business, a Dartmouth-wide chair and the highest distinction awarded to Dartmouth faculty, a Faculty Partner in the Silicon Valley incubator Mach49 , and a Senior Advisor at the strategy consulting firm Acropolis Advisors . He is a New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. His latest book is   Fusion Strategy: How Real-Time Data and AI Will Power the Industrial Future .   His Harvard Business Review articles “ Engineering Reverse Innovations ” and “ Stop the Innovation Wars ” won McKinsey Awards for best article published in HBR. His HBR articles “ How GE Is Disrupting Itself ” and “ The CEO’s Role in Business Model Reinvention ” are HBR all-time top-50 bestsellers. Follow him on   LinkedIn . vgovindarajan
• JD Jatin Desai is co-founder and chief executive officer of The Desai Group and the author of  Innovation Engine: Driving Execution for Breakthrough Results .

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Should College be Free: Pros and Cons

How it works

All over the world, many adults have not obtained a college education. As a result, they work at jobs that do not pay them well and overwork them. Although every person looks forward to the reality of the “American Dream”, that dream cannot be a reality because of the cost of tuition. When people consider the high cost of tuition, they are stressed even more and students doubt the worth of going through college training. Ultimately, one needs to go through college and attain an education, but the cost associated with college is not worth it.

There are many reasons why college education should be free, but one main reason is to allow students to concentrate on their studies in a college of their choice other than the cost itself. Having free tuition will eliminate the need for government assistance and student loans can translate into financial burdens.

College education needs to be free to allow the students to focus more on their school of choice than the costs involved. Every person desires to enroll in schools that will allow them to exploit their full potential and strengthen their intelligence. This can be done without necessarily having to worry about the costs. Having scholarships is a form of help but scholarships can only be to a limited extent because most scholarships can sustain only a limited number, and others are given only for a limited period. Having a free college education will enable students from low socioeconomic backgrounds to attend colleges and allow them to raise the required graduation fees. Every student will be free to select an education major that they have an interest in and that will translate into more successful graduates that would be competent in the fields of their interest. For example, if a student has a passion for becoming a surgeon, the thought of the tuition fee will discourage them and their dream would stall. Eventually, that student will end up doing something they are not passionate about. The student could have been a future doctor that is then lost among many who could not achieve their full potential.

Colleges need to be free since having free tuition will reduce the need for government assistance. The only cost that the students will be shouldering will be their necessities and living expenses. A lot of people are resorting to financial assistance to help them fund basic community colleges when their potential is way more than that. Having a free college will become a great difference because not many people would be opting to use government aid such as loans and grants to finance their training. Many adults will have an opportunity to enroll in colleges because currently most of them do not qualify for financial assistance and that becomes a barrier to them. In contemporary society, it is difficult to find a stable and successful career when you have no college degree. Having a free college will thus enable adults to secure better careers, take better care of their families, and lead more stable lives. That will result in the termination of other government programs. If all people could access the necessary education that would enable them to be who they desire to be, most government programs that are established to help would be unnecessary because people would be stable enough to provide for themselves. Many families are still relying on programs like Medicaid, WIC, and EBT simply because they cannot reach where they want to reach owing to the high cost of a college education. Being in a good career can guarantee an individual a successful life that will not require government assistance programs, then that amount can be used to support other beneficial programs.

The other reason why free college should be provided is that when students are allowed to take education loans, such loans end up becoming financial burdens for them. One of the reasons why students do not excel the way they should is because they are stressed as they try to pay off their student loans or are overworked to manage to repay the loans. Until the loan is fully settled, it can choke off someone’s progress in life because it is a burden. This is another reason why many individuals shy off from applying to enroll in colleges to pursue the majors of their dream. Since everyone dreams of becoming somebody or achieving something in life, they need a college degree to enable them to succeed in their fields. When one does not qualify for grants or scholarships, they only have the option of taking loans to finance their education. Often, people are unable to repay the loans because they end up securing underpaid jobs. When people cannot repay the loans, they are strained and their lives become difficult. Since the graduates do not necessarily secure jobs as soon as they are out of school, the loans’ interests keep growing and that may imply having extra years to repay the loans. Because of the issues that accompany loans and the stress that accompanies them, it is important to make college education free.

Numerous reasons support the need for making college tuition free. Students will benefit from the free tuition in that they will concentrate on their school work rather than the cost. The need for government support programs will also reduce because people will be more stable. Also, the free college will free students from long-term debts. When colleges offer free tuition, adults will have an opportunity to pursue their dreams and do what they desire in life. Families will also be empowered to take better care of their people. When people are allowed to study in their colleges of choice, many intelligent minds will be produced but that can only happen if the college tuition fee is free.

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7 Reasons Why College Should Be Free

By Eric Eng

The cost of higher education has skyrocketed in recent years, making college unaffordable for many aspiring students. In fact, numerous studies have shown that student loan debt is a pressing issue for millions of Americans, with many facing financial difficulties long after graduation. But what if college was free for everyone? In this article, we’ll explore 7 compelling reasons why college should be free, including economic benefits, social advantages, impacts on the job market, and long-term effects on individuals.

The Economic Benefits of Free College Education

Free college education has been a topic of debate for many years, with proponents arguing that it would have a significant impact on the economy. While some critics argue that it would be too expensive to implement, the potential benefits are numerous and far-reaching.

Reducing Student Loan Debt

The soaring cost of tuition fees has forced countless students to take out loans, which can sometimes take decades to repay. This burden of debt can be a major obstacle for graduates, preventing them from pursuing their dreams and achieving their full potential.

By eliminating tuition fees , free college education would make it possible for students to graduate without the burden of massive debt, freeing up funds that could be used for other purposes such as purchasing a home or starting a business. This, in turn, would stimulate economic growth and create new opportunities for individuals and communities.

Furthermore, reducing student loan debt would also have a positive impact on the overall economy. Graduates with significant debt are less likely to make major purchases such as homes and cars, which can slow down economic growth. By eliminating this burden, free college education would free up funds for graduates to invest in the economy, creating new jobs and opportunities for everyone.

Increasing Access to Higher Education

Here’s one of the reasons why college should be free. For many people, the high cost of college represents a major barrier to entry. This is particularly true for low-income students, who may be unable to attend college due to financial constraints.

Free college education would make it possible for students from all backgrounds to pursue higher education, regardless of their financial situation. This would benefit not only individual students but also society as a whole. A more educated population would lead to a more skilled and innovative workforce, which would in turn lead to economic growth and prosperity.

Furthermore, increasing access to higher education would also have a positive impact on social mobility. Students from low-income backgrounds often face significant barriers to achieving success in their careers. By providing a free college education, we would be leveling the playing field and giving everyone an equal opportunity to succeed.

Boosting the Economy Through a More Educated Workforce

Higher education is essential for creating a skilled workforce that can meet the needs of a rapidly changing economy. By providing free college education, we would be investing in the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs , which would in turn lead to economic growth and prosperity. A more educated workforce would be better equipped to meet the demands of the modern economy, which is increasingly focused on technology and innovation.

Furthermore, a free college education would also have a positive impact on the job market. As more students graduate with advanced degrees, there will be an increase in highly skilled workers, which will attract new businesses and industries to the area. This would create new jobs and opportunities for everyone, leading to economic growth and prosperity.

Overall, free college education has the potential to have a significant impact on the economy. By reducing student loan debt, increasing access to higher education, and boosting the economy through a more educated workforce, we can create new opportunities for individuals and communities. While there are certainly challenges to implementing such a program, the potential benefits are too great to ignore.

The Social Advantages of Free College

The idea of free college education has been a topic of debate for many years. While some argue that it is not feasible, others believe that it is a necessary step towards creating a more just and equitable society. Now that we have discussed the reasons why college should be free, we will now explore some of the social advantages of free college education.

Promoting Equality and Social Mobility

Higher education is often seen as a path to upward social mobility, allowing individuals to elevate themselves and their families out of poverty. However, the high cost of tuition fees has made this dream unattainable for many. By providing free college education, we would be promoting equality and creating a more just society.

When education is accessible to all, regardless of their financial background, it creates a level playing field. Students who come from disadvantaged backgrounds can now access the same opportunities as their more affluent peers. This not only promotes equality but also encourages social mobility, allowing individuals to break out of the cycle of poverty and create a better life for themselves and their families.

Encouraging Civic Engagement and Community Involvement

College campuses are often hotbeds of activism, where passionate and engaged students come together to discuss and advocate for issues that affect their communities. By making college education more accessible, we would be encouraging greater civic engagement and community involvement, which could lead to positive social change.

When students have access to higher education, they are more likely to engage with their communities and become active citizens. They are exposed to a diverse range of ideas and perspectives, which allows them to think critically about the world around them. This, in turn, can lead to greater civic engagement and community involvement, as students become more aware of the issues that affect their communities and are motivated to take action.

Reducing Crime Rates and Improving Public Safety

There is a well-established link between education and lower crime rates. Providing free college education would give more people the opportunity to improve their lives and their communities, which would in turn reduce crime rates and improve public safety for all.

When individuals have access to education, they are more likely to find meaningful employment and contribute positively to their communities. This reduces the likelihood of them turning to crime as a means of survival. Additionally, education provides individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to make informed decisions and become responsible citizens. This, in turn, can lead to a safer and more secure society for all.

In conclusion, free college education has the potential to create a more just and equitable society, promote civic engagement and community involvement, and improve public safety. These pretty much sum up the reasons why college should be free. While there may be challenges in implementing such a system, the potential benefits are clear. It is up to us to work towards creating a society where education is accessible to all.

The Impact on the Job Market

Meeting the demand for skilled workers.

As the economy continues to evolve, demand for highly skilled workers is increasing exponentially. This is particularly evident in the fields of technology, healthcare, and finance, where the pace of change is rapid and the need for specialized knowledge is high. By providing free college education, we would be helping to fill this demand and create a workforce that is equipped to meet the needs of the 21st century.

For example, in the field of healthcare, there is a growing need for nurses , doctors, and other healthcare professionals who are trained to work with new technologies and treatments. By offering free college education, we could encourage more people to pursue careers in healthcare and help to address the shortage of skilled workers in this field.

Encouraging Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Higher education has long been a breeding ground for innovation and entrepreneurship . By making college education more accessible, we would be encouraging more people to pursue their dreams and create new businesses and ideas that could change the world.

For instance, many of the world’s most successful entrepreneurs, such as Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg, were college graduates who used their education to launch groundbreaking companies. By providing free college education, we could help create a new generation of innovators who have the skills and knowledge they need to turn their ideas into reality.

Improving Job Satisfaction and Employee Retention

College education equips individuals with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen careers. By providing free college education, we would be creating a more skilled and satisfied workforce, which would lead to lower turnover and higher overall employee retention rates.

Studies have shown that employees who feel that they are being invested in by their employers are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work. By offering free college education, we could demonstrate our commitment to our employees and help create a culture of learning and growth within our organization.

Furthermore, providing free college education could help address some of the challenges that employers face in recruiting and retaining top talent. This is one of the most compelling reasons why college should be free. By offering education as a benefit, we could differentiate ourselves from other employers and attract candidates who are looking for opportunities for personal and professional growth.

The Long-term Effects on Individuals

Providing free college education has several long-term benefits for individuals. In addition to the benefits mentioned in the previous paragraphs, there are several other ways in which free college education can positively impact individuals.

Opening Up Opportunities for Career Advancement

Higher education provides individuals with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen careers. With free college education, individuals would have access to a wider range of courses and programs, allowing them to explore new career paths and find the right fit for their skills and interests. This, in turn, could lead to increased job satisfaction and opportunities for career advancement.

Building Stronger Communities

Free college education can also have a positive impact on communities as a whole. By providing individuals with the tools they need to succeed, we are investing in the future of our communities. College graduates are more likely to be engaged in their communities, volunteer their time, and give back in meaningful ways.

Promoting Innovation and Progress

Higher education is a key driver of innovation and progress. By providing free college education, we are investing in the future of our society and promoting the development of new ideas and technologies. This, in turn, can lead to economic growth and increased prosperity for all.

In conclusion, free college education has numerous long-term benefits for individuals and society as a whole. By providing access to higher education, we are investing in the future and helping individuals reach their full potential. It is an investment that will pay dividends for years to come.

In conclusion, there are numerous compelling reasons why college should be free for everyone. From economic benefits to social advantages, impacts on the job market, and long-term effects on individuals, free college education has the potential to transform society for the better. It’s time for us to take action and make college education more accessible and affordable so that everyone has the opportunity to achieve their dreams and reach their full potential.

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Right Now | Subsidy Shuffle

Could College Be Free?

January-February 2020

Illustration by Adam Niklewicz

Email David Deming 

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Hear David Deming discuss free college on HKS PolicyCast

etting ahead— or getting by—is increasingly difficult in the United States without a college degree. The demand for college education is at an all-time high, but so is the price tag. David Deming—professor of public policy at the Kennedy School and professor of education and economics at the Graduate School of Education—wants to ease that tension by reallocating government spending on higher education to make public colleges tuition-free. 

Deming’s argument is elegant. Public spending on higher education is unique among social services: it is an investment that pays for itself many times over in higher tax revenue generated by future college graduates, a rare example of an economic “free lunch.” In 2016 (the most recent year for which data are available), the United States spent $91 billion subsidizing access to higher education. According to Deming, that spending isn’t as progressive or effective as it could be. The National Center for Education Statistics indicates that it would cost roughly $79 billion a year to make public colleges and universities tuition-free. So, Deming asks, why not redistribute current funds to make public colleges tuition-free, instead of subsidizing higher education in other, roundabout ways? 

Of the estimated $91 billion the nation spends annually on higher education, $37 billion go to tax credits and tax benefits. These tax programs ease the burden of paying for both public and private colleges, but disproportionately benefit middle-class children who are probably going to college anyway. Instead of lowering costs for those students, Deming points out, a progressive public-education assistance program should probably redirect funds to incentivize students to go to college who wouldn’t otherwise consider it. 

Another $13 billion in federal spending subsidize interest payments on student loans for currently enrolled undergraduates. And the remaining $41 billion go to programs that benefit low-income students and military veterans, including $28.4 billion for Pell Grants and similar programs. Pell Grants are demand-side subsidies: they provide cash directly to those who pay for a service, i.e., students; supply-side subsidies (see below) channel funds to suppliers, such as colleges. Deming asserts that Pell Grant money, which travels with students, voucher-style, is increasingly gobbled up by low-quality, for-profit colleges. These colleges are often better at marketing their services than at graduating students or improving their graduates’ prospects, despite being highly subsidized by taxpayers . “The rise of for-profit colleges has, in some ways, been caused by disinvestment in public higher education. Our public university systems were built for a time when 20 percent of young people attended college,” says Deming. “Now it’s more like 60 percent, and we haven’t responded by devoting more resources to ensuring that young people can afford college and succeed when they get there.” As a result, an expensive, for-profit market has filled the educational shortage that government divestment has caused.

The vast majority of states have continuously divested in public education in recent decades, pushing a higher percentage of the cost burden of schools onto students. Deming believes this state-level divestment is the main reason for the precipitous rise in college tuition, which has outpaced the rest of the Consumer Price Index for 30 consecutive years. (Compounding reasons include rising salaries despite a lack of gains in productivity—a feature of many human-service-focused industries such as education and healthcare.) Against this backdrop, Deming writes, “at least some—and perhaps all—of the cost of universal tuition-free public higher education could be defrayed by redeploying money that the government is already spending.” (The need for some funding programs would remain, however, given the cost of room, board, books, and other college supplies.) 

Redirecting current funding to provide tuition-free public-school degrees is only one part of Deming’s proposal. He knows that making public higher education free could hurt the quality of instruction by inciting a race to the bottom, stretching teacher-student ratios and pinching other academic resources. He therefore argues that any tuition-free plan would need to be paired with increased state and federal investment, and programs focused on getting more students to graduate. Because rates of degree completion strongly correlate with per-student spending, Deming proposes introducing a federal matching grant for the first $5,000 of net per-student spending in states that implement free college. “Luckily,” he says, “spending more money is a policy lever we know how to pull.” 

Deming argues that shifting public funding to supply-side subsidies, channeled directly to public institutions, could nudge states to reinvest in public higher education. Such reinvestment would dampen the demand for low-quality, for-profit schools; increase college attendance in low-income communities; and improve the quality of services that public colleges and universities could offer. Early evidence of these positive effects has surfaced in some of the areas that are piloting free college-tuition programs, including the state of Tennessee and the city of Kalamazoo, Michigan. 

Higher education is an odd market because buyers (students) often don’t have good information about school quality and it’s a once-in-a-lifetime decision. Creating a supply-side subsidy system would take some freedom of choice away from prospective undergraduates who want government funding for private, four-year degrees. But, for Deming, that’s a trade-off worth making, if the state is better able to measure the effectiveness of certain colleges and allocate subsidies accordingly. Education is more than the mere acquisition of facts—which anyone can access freely online—because minds, like markets, learn best through feedback. Quality feedback is difficult to scale well without hiring more teachers and ramping up student-support resources. That’s why Deming thinks it’s high time for the public higher-education market to get a serious injection of cash.

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Should a College Education Be Available to All People for Free?

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Introduction

Why college education should free, opposing arguments, works cited.

The cost of college education in the United States has been on the rise in the past two decades. Many students are finding it hard to graduate because of financial constraints, even though the government offers financial support. Many learners avoid the trap of leaving school with huge debts that might take them many years to clear. This issue has been debated in various sectors, with proponents and opponents presenting different arguments for either supporting or opposing it.

Proponents believe that free education will strengthen the labour market, grow the economy, and increase equality in society. On the contrary, opponents argue that it will devalue the college degree and overburden the taxpayers, as well as the federal and state governments. Countries that offer free tertiary education report both positive and negative impacts.

Arguments from both sides originate from the results of surveys conducted on the positive and negative effects of free college education in countries such as Germany, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Norway. College education should be free because it will widen the workforce, boost the economy, decrease inequality, and allow students to focus more on their careers.

Widening of the Workforce

Providing free education for everyone in America will widen the workforce by increasing the number of qualified people in the labour market. Technological advancement has introduced the concept of automation in many jobs that involve simple tasks. However, there is a need for more qualified individuals with analytical and creative thinking skills to do the work that machines cannot do (Winograd and Lubin). A free college education would create a large pool of graduates with technical skills; this would broaden the labour force and increase its agility.

Moreover, availability of qualified candidates would make it easier for industries to recruit, hire, train, and retain highly-qualified individuals with a wide range of capabilities (Kromydas 4). The majority of jobs in contemporary society require advanced technical skills that can only be acquired in college (Goger). In that regard, free college education would create a better-educated workforce that would fill the numerous positions that are available in the various economic sectors.

Economic Boost

Another reason why college education should be free is the role it would play in boosting the economy. Government statistics have shown that students graduate with an average debt of $31,172 that takes several years to repay fully (Winograd and Lubin). Moreover, the interest that accrues on their education loans makes it harder for them to focus on other life aspects such as starting a family or buying a house. Free education would allow students to graduate without debt, and therefore, enhance their readiness to earn, save, and invest (Winograd and Lubin). The economy would benefit immensely if the money that people use to repay their student debts went toward investments or starting businesses.

In addition, instead of paying for their children’s college education, parents could use that money to invest in their retirement or the stock market. Either way, college for all would provide a financial incentive that would save a lot of money. Habits such as consumer spending and investing are key in the stimulation of economic growth (Winograd and Lubin). Many students are afraid of leaving school with huge debts, and so, they avoid going to college altogether. Decreased graduation rates lower the number of professionals available to fill the vacancies that are available in various industries.

Increased Equality

Inequality in the education sector is a pervasive challenge that could be solved by the introduction of free college education for all. Students from low-income families find it difficult to afford tertiary education because it is expensive ( Financial Stress ). In that regard, equal opportunities are unavailable for young people to pursue careers of their choice. There are many bright individuals who fail to make their contribution to society because of the lack of money to go to school. A lack of education is associated with low wages and a below-average lifestyle (Kromydas 6).

States that have free college tuition programs record positive outcomes: inequality has declined significantly and the rates of graduation have increased (Winograd and Lubin). The Tennessee Promise scholarship program increased college enrolment by 24.7%; the admission of African American and Hispanic students rose by 5% and 1% respectively (Winograd and Lubin). The graduation rate in the program was 52.6%, while that of students who finance their education was 38.9% (Winograd and Lubin). The rates of graduation among students who attend college on scholarship are higher than those of students who pay for it.

Increased Focus on Studies and Careers

Proponents of free college education argue that it is necessary because it will allow students to focus on their education and careers, rather than looking for tuition money. Some of the main causes of stress among college students include the high cost of education, the means of repaying their loans, challenging academic work, relationships, and securing employment after school ( Financial Stress ). Research has shown that financial constraints cause worry, anxiety, and even depression among students. The sustained stress of thinking about how to pay for tuition and the burgeoning debts after graduation diverts their focus from their education to the search for money ( Financial Stress ). These challenges crowd their brain’s ability to focus on coursework and their long-term professional goals. As a result, the rates of graduation decline immensely as many of the students drop out for lack of money.

A 2015 study conducted by the Ohio State University on student wellness revealed that approximately 70% of students experience stress because of the poor state of their finances (Winograd and Lubin). Anxiety originates from thinking about ways to pay for their tuition and monthly expenses. Moreover, 32% of the students interviewed stated that at certain times, they had to abdicate their studies so that they could look for money to pay their debts (Winograd and Lubin). These challenges could be mitigated by a free college education for all.

Opponents of free college education argue that it is impracticable because it would devalue college education and overburden the taxpayers, as well as the state and federal governments. They have criticized the proponents for presenting arguments that though valid, have little basis in reality. For example, they support it and fail to give workable recommendations on how to get the money for the program without overburdening the state and federal governments. It would be inappropriate to increase taxes so as to earn money to fund a free education program. Moreover, they ignore how it would affect the value of a college degree.

Increased Pressure on Governments and Taxpayers

One of the main arguments against free college for all is the financial pressure it would place on the federal and state governments and taxpayers. Such a program would require the government to find extra money to finance it, taking into consideration the likely increase in enrolment. Free college education means that Americans would be required to pay more taxes for the government to get enough money to implement and sustain the program (DiMartino 261).

Higher education is not a universal right but a private pursuit that is usually done in order to get an economic return (McCowan, 111). Therefore, the government does not a moral obligation to make it free for everyone. The uncertainty of who will be affected by the increases in tax is a source of discomfort and opposition among Americans who think that the idea is not viable (Goger). The most realistic option would be increasing and creating new taxes, thus burdening the taxpayers who are already paying taxes that are considered relatively high in comparison with other developed economies.

Devaluation of the College Degree

The value of a college degree would decline significantly if education was made free for all. Currently, many people rate a degree highly mainly because of the dedication and struggle involved in its attainment. The stress of financing one’s education through loans and taking multiple jobs makes it an invaluable pursuit (Goger). Free education may erode its quality because students would not feel then need to work hard as the government would pay for their tuition. Moreover, the majority of them would not be motivated to graduate quickly because of the lack of an urgency to reduce debt.

Therefore, laziness and indifference to education would increase because of the elimination of the financial pressure of mounting student debt (Goger). This renders the idea of free college education for all a bad idea that should not be implemented. Moreover, free education would not solve the inequality that exists in the education system because of social and cultural factors (DiMartino 274).

In that regard, free education would be beneficial to a small percentage of students who cannot pursue higher education because of financial constraints. This would exclude young people who do not go to college because of social and cultural factors.

The arguments that free education might devalue a college degree and put pressure on governments and taxpayers is highly flawed. First, free education would increase competition in the labor market because a higher number of graduates would compel organizations to raise their hiring and recruitment standards (Goger). Therefore, students would be more motivated than before to attain excellence in their education in order to increase the chances of pursuing the careers of their choice.

Moreover, there are many people who pursue alternative careers because of the lack of money to pay for tertiary education. It is highly unlikely that the program would devalue a college degree. This phenomenon has not been observed in countries that offer free college education, such as Norway, Finland, and Sweden.

Opponents also argue that free education would put pressure on state and federal governments, and taxpayers. This argument is based on the assumption that the only way for the federal government to finance the program is through raising taxes. However, there are other alternatives that can be applied.

It is estimated that even without this family income limitation, eliminating tuition for four years at all public colleges and universities for all students would cost taxpayers $79 billion a year, according to U.S. Department of Education data. Consider, however, that the federal government spent $91 billion in 2016 on policies that subsidized college attendance. At least some of that could be used to help make public higher education institutions tuition-free in partnership with the states. (Winograd and Lubin)

The government could also reevaluate its spending in various sectors in favor of free education and enact more stringent policies that seal the loopholes that wealthy individuals and organizations use to avoid paying taxes.

Utopia and Free College Education

Thomas More taught that in a utopian society, governments focus all resources on the provision of services that promote the safety and welfare of its citizens. Such civilizations are characterized by equality as everyone has access to opportunities for personal and professional advancement, and they are treated with dignity (More).

Free college education can be viewed as one of the ways that the US can achieve a utopian society: it will promote public interests, accord people dignity, encourage individual development, and support the improvement of people’s welfare (McCowan 115). It would provide a way for people to live with dignity by eradicating ignorance, pursuing careers of their choice, and serving society.

College education should be free because it will widen the workforce, boost the economy, decrease inequality, and allow students to focus more on their careers. There are several downsides though: there is a possibility of devaluing the college degree and placing financial pressure on taxpayers and the state and federal governments. However, the impact on the education system, the economy, people’s lives, and the society at large outweigh the shortcomings. This conclusion has limitations; first, it is based on the assumption that skills can only be taught in college.

Secondly, it disregards the importance of encouraging young people to venture into entrepreneurship as an alternative to formal education. Many successful entrepreneurs have reiterated on several occasions that they do not usually consider academic qualifications when hiring. Their main focus is on the individual’s creativity, thinking capability, and the potential to solve complex problems.

It is important for Congress to support the provision of free college education by enacting laws that support it. Otherwise, the American economy might not be able to compete effectively with other developed nations that offer free education and that have a highly qualified and academically diverse workforce.

DiMartino, Lauren A. “ The “Free College” Illusion: How State Tuition Support Programs are Widening the Opportunity Gap. ” Georgetown Journal on Poverty, Law, and Policy , vol. 25, no. 2, 2018, pp. 258-301.

“Financial Stress Prevents College Students from Graduating: What Can We Do?” Scholarship America , 2019.

Goger, Annelies. “ Free College Won’t Be Enough to Prepare Americans for the Future of Work. ” Brookings , 2019.

Kromydas, Theocharis. “Rethinking Higher Education and its Relationship with Social Inequalities: Past Knowledge, Present State, and Future Potential.” Palgrave Communications , vol. 3, no. 1, 2017, pp. 1-12.

McCowan, Tristan. “ Is There a Universal Right to Higher Education? ” British Journal of Educational Studies , vol. 60. No. 2, 2012, pp. 111-128.

More, Thomas. “Utopia.” The Project Gutenberg , 2000.

Winograd, Morley, and Max Lubin. “ Tuition-Free College is Critical to Our Economy. ” EdSource, 2020.

• The United States Student-Loan Debt Crisis
• The Pros and Cons of Free College
• College Graduation Rate in the US
• Tuition Increases and Financial Aid in California
• University Students Find It Hard to Get Jobs After Graduation
• Prejudice and Discrimination Among Students
• Why Students Should Not Be Allowed to Use Their Cellphones in Class?
• Inappropriate Behaviors in Students
• High School Dropouts and Their Reasons
• School Student Property Searches Without Warrants
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2021, June 29). Should a College Education Be Available to All People for Free? https://ivypanda.com/essays/should-a-college-education-be-available-to-all-people-for-free/

"Should a College Education Be Available to All People for Free?" IvyPanda , 29 June 2021, ivypanda.com/essays/should-a-college-education-be-available-to-all-people-for-free/.

IvyPanda . (2021) 'Should a College Education Be Available to All People for Free'. 29 June.

IvyPanda . 2021. "Should a College Education Be Available to All People for Free?" June 29, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/should-a-college-education-be-available-to-all-people-for-free/.

1. IvyPanda . "Should a College Education Be Available to All People for Free?" June 29, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/should-a-college-education-be-available-to-all-people-for-free/.

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Home / Essay Samples / Education / Free Education / Should College Be Free: Analysis of Benefits and Drawbacks

Should College Be Free: Analysis of Benefits and Drawbacks

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Benefits of Free College Education

Drawbacks and concerns, considerations for implementation.

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