It is recommended that student financial aid administrators undertake more research to improve their knowledge and control of their programs, understand the effects of policies, and help correct beliefs and attitudes. Choosing a research topic, creating credibility, and writing a complete report are discussed. (MSE)

In response to Fischer (HE 527 626), the author considers a proposal to simplify need analysis in Pell grants and other federal need-based student aid as a good start toward getting policymakers to achieve more consistent assessments of student financial need, but more work by many parties to create a system producing more realistic need…

A survey of junior high school student interest in career and postsecondary education planning found willingness to participate in planning activities and to sacrifice to achieve postsecondary educational goals are directly related to their post-high school plans. Early-awareness activities are unlikely to be well-received by a significant…

Distribution of federal expenditures for interest benefits, special allowance payments, default claims reinsurance, and administrative cost allowances among over 61,000 borrowers is described, including in-school, grace and repayment periods by institution type, years enrolled, dependency status, and family financial circumstances. (Author/MSE)

A study of changes in patterns of freshman and family incomes in colleges and in the nation in general in 1966, 1971, 1976, 1981, and 1986 found that low-income students experienced reductions in access to college in the early 1980's. (Author/MSE)