As college costs have increased, and more federal and state aid has become merit-based, the doors of educational opportunity have closed for many students. Countless numbers are being denied access to college simply because they cannot afford it, undermining the fundamental policy object of the Higher Education Act of 1965. On Capitol Hill, legislators are considering various measures to provide more financial support to students, such as a proposal to halve the interest rate on federal student loans. These are overdue steps in the right direction--but they are definitely not enough. This nation needs a comprehensive overhaul of the entire system, so that it reflects today's changed environment and adequately supports independent, low-income, and first-generation students. This article suggests several strategies that government leaders should consider to ensure access for all qualified students.