This publication brings together much of the information one might need to understand and discuss higher education issues. While this publication does not attempt to answer every question that may come up in discussions about higher education, it highlights the most often-asked questions about institutions, faculty, students, costs, budgets, financial aid, and other topics. A glossary is included. First published in 2002, the publication is updated annually by the Higher Education Coordinating Board (HECB). [For the 2006 edition of this report, see ED491233.]