More and more, people are looking to non-degree credentials as a postsecondary education and training option that is affordable, flexible, and can quickly open doors to good jobs. However, while non-degree credentials are relatively more affordable than degree programs, students and workers still face significant financial barriers to cover associated costs—and few have access to financial aid programs that work for them.
For students and employers and states to benefit from non-degree credential programs, states need to design financial aid programs that take into consideration key choices, such as determining student eligibility and how to align these programs with in-demand sectors and occupations.
While there’s plenty of research and analysis into how states offer financial aid for degree programs, few—if any—existing analysis provides a look into how states are doing the same for non-degree credentials. This paper offers a unique insight into existing financial aid programs in six states that support equitable access and strong outcomes connected to NDCs—particularly for students that are not eligible for federal student aid—while also supporting the needs of industry and business.
We offer eight critical considerations for states when designing equitable and outcomes-oriented financial aid for NDC students.
