A review of research on characteristics of junior college students permits certain generalizations. Since present tests show that they score lower academically than 4-year college students (although individuals may do equally well), their special abilities and aptitudes need further study. Though they tend to come from families of low socioeconomic status, the extent of this influence is uncertain. How much is due to the parents' social-cultural values and how much to economic factors should be explored. Cost affects college attendance, alone and in combination with such factors as accessibility, motivation, source of funds, family attitudes, etc. More statistical correlations of these factors are needed. Junior college students are attracted more by the practical (low cost, proximity, job training) than by the intellectual and, as a result, have lower educational and vocational aspirations. Thus it appears that more data are needed on their knowledge of available pursuits and on what influences their decisions. It has been shown that they prefer applied curricula, are less flexible in thought and attitude, and have low self-esteem. Much more study therefore is needed on their values, self-images, and human relations. Lacking confidence in their academic ability, they frequently criticize their high school courses, perhaps because their particular nonacademic abilities are overlooked in traditional testing. Much more research must be done, especially on the adequacy of these tests for their unique qualities. (HH)