This document presents testimony and statements from one of a series of Congressional field hearings intended to critically review all the programs associated with the Higher Education Act of 1965. Issues addressed in the testimony and prepared statements include: How the United States can maximize the number of students, including non-traditional students and first generation students, in postsecondary education; ways the United States can encourage more students to pursue graduate studies, including women and minorities in under-represented fields; methods of improving the financial aid system in order to reach the entire spectrum of middle America; methods to improve educational quality; and ways of allowing students to choose from the entire spectrum of postsecondary opportunities while minimizing loan defaults. The testimony and statements also include numerous observations concerning the status of higher education in the State of New York. Persons testifying included several presidents, chancellors, and other top officials from various New York universities and colleges, as well as representatives of the American Federation of Teachers, New York; the Board of Education, City of New York, and student representatives. Fifteen prepared statements, letters, and supplemental materials are included. (GLR)