Is Free Community College in the U.S. Really That Easy to Afford?
About 20 states in the U.S., including my home state of Tennessee, now offer tuition-free community college. The idea that college could be free might seem too good to be true, but could it really be that easy to afford?
Financial Challenges of Tuition-Free College
While tuition-free community college has become a reality in nearly 20 states, the reality is that free college does not cover the entire cost of attendance. Many community college graduates who aspire to continue their education in four-year colleges or universities often face financial obstacles. The primary issue is that they lack the necessary funds to pursue further education.
The Solution: Eliminating 12th Grade
One way to keep the price tag surprisingly low is to eliminate the 12th grade. This concept is already implemented in places like Quebec, where students can complete their high school education by the 11th grade and then attend what is equivalent to community college for free. Reducing the 12th grade would effectively halve the taxpayer support needed for community colleges.
Here’s how it works: students who wish to continue their education can complete their high school diploma in the 11th grade and then enroll in community college. Those aiming for college transfer programs might need up to two years, while those seeking a career path might take up to three years. By reallocating the funds currently allocated to the last two years of high school, the overall cost for taxpayers is significantly reduced.
Efficiency and Future Prospects
The loss of the 12th grade might seem like a drastic measure at first, but in practice, it would be a small sacrifice. Most high school students already complete the required coursework by the 11th grade. Moreover, many students are already enrolled in Advanced Placement (AP) or dual-enrollment courses if they are bound for college. For those planning careers, vocational training should be completed in high school. By cutting the 12th grade, students can get to community college sooner, where they can receive more career-specific training.
Given the substantial federal and state funding already directed towards community colleges, making them free for all students would not significantly increase overall costs. The current level of funding can be reallocated, leading to a more efficient use of resources.
Current Practices and Examples
Currently, some districts allow senior high school students to take college courses, and states like California offer free community college. The primary expenses are books, transportation, and meals. Most people, even with these additional costs, can easily afford them.
Eliminating the 12th grade is not an entirely new concept. It is already being tested in various forms across different states. This approach not only reduces the financial burden on taxpayers but also allows students to receive relevant vocational training in high school, making the transition to community college smoother and more efficient.
Conclusion
The idea of free community college in the U.S. is not as unrealistic as it initially seems. By reconfiguring the high school system and reallocating funds, the financial burden can be significantly reduced. This approach not only supports higher education but also prepares students for careers, making it a win-win situation for everyone involved.