Executive Summary
Since 2000, in-state tuition at U.S. public four-year universities has risen 50 percent in real terms, while total outstanding student loans have doubled in the past ten years, to surpass $1.3 trillion. These figures have prompted calls for greater federal funding and even a guarantee of "free" college.
Key Findings
- Only 52 percent of U.S. students who enroll in college graduate within six years.
- Nearly half—44 percent—of recent college graduates from four-year institutions are underemployed.
- Only 33 percent of enrollees in four-year colleges emerge with a degree and a relevant job.
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