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Rice University Says Middle-Class And Low-Income Students Won't Have To Pay Tuition (npr.org)

Rice University is "dramatically expanding" its financial aid offerings, promising full scholarships to undergrads whose families have income under $130,000. NPR reports: The school says it wants to reduce student debt -- and make it easier for students from low-income families to attend. "Talent deserves opportunity," Rice President David Leebron said while announcing the plan on Tuesday. The full scholarships are earmarked for students whose families have income between $65,000 and $130,000. Below that level, the university will not only cover tuition but also provide grants to cover students' room and board, along with any other fees. Another part of the program will help students whose family income surpasses the maximum: If their family's income is between $130,000 and $200,000, they can still get grants covering at least half of their tuition.

4 of 250 comments (clear)

  1. How much have ya got? by XanC · · Score: 5, Interesting

    The trend lately is for colleges to set a ridiculously high price, then give "everyone" a discount. They're taking as much as they can from everyone. In what other field do companies get away with that? What a scam.

  2. Re: The long fall to Socialism by ShanghaiBill · · Score: 5, Interesting

    The trouble with socialism is that eventually you run out of other people's money

    Rice University is a private institution, so this is charity, not "socialism".

    They may have done a cost-benefit analysis and figured what they will lose on tuition, they will make up in endowment contributions from grateful future alumni who are earning and investing rather than trying to pay down debt.

  3. Re: The long fall to Socialism by ShanghaiBill · · Score: 5, Insightful

    One semester of bad grades, and out the door German college students go.

    That seems like a good incentive for students to do their best.

    German 'poors' are routed into apprenticeships, same as their parents were.

    No, German 'dumbs' are routed into apprenticeships. It is based on aptitude, not income.

    And there is nothing wrong with apprenticeships. They are a good option for people that are not academically gifted.

    I went to college and did an apprenticeship in metal working. Knowing how to use a metal lathe and CNC mill turned out to be very useful life skills.

  4. per The Founder by harvey+the+nerd · · Score: 5, Informative

    In 1964, Rice's tuition was $0, per the Founder's will. Then they broke the will and started charging. Of course, others since, singlely and in combination, have given more now. However, this is a good step toward restoration of their Benefactor's honorable intent.