U.S. House of Representatives makes ciritcal investments in college students

This morning the U.S. House of Representatives subcommittee that oversees higher education appropriations released its 2010 budget proposal. The bill includes funding increases to critical financial aid and outreach and retention programs. The USSA applauds the subcommittee for making responsible, long-term investments in college students, which will ultimately help grow the nation’s economy and open the school doors to millions of potential students.

The increases include:

• The Pell grant, which will help 7.6 million low and middle income students afford college next year, had its maximum award amount set at $5,550, a $200 increase from 2009.

• Colleges and universities serving underrepresented communities received $653 million.

• The outreach and retention programs TRIO and GEAR UP were allocated $868 million and $330 million, respectively.

• 1.7 million disadvantaged and first generation students are slated to receive college preparation and support services.

The USSA will continue to advocate for this and other pieces of legislation that make college more accessible and affordable.

Click here to read more about the budget.