NPR Series: Paying For College

Temple University in Pennsylvania and the New College of Florida are keeping costs low by cutting amenities and some varsity sports. But will running this play make them less attractive to applicants?

Some of the factors keeping low-income students from getting into college aren't always obvious to the public, higher education insiders tell Morning Edition'sDavid Greene.

You got in! But just how much money is that school offering you? Financial aid award letters can be confusing, so we've put together a sample letter — and translated it into plain English.

An apprenticeship program in New York City helps lower-income and minority students break into advanced sciences. For one, the love of the stars was motivation to tackle the tough field of astronomy.

Students are taking on record levels of debt to pay for college. Sen. Tom Harkin, D-Iowa, says it's a drag on the economy and is calling for changes to the federal student loan system.