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 having merit but threatening serious financial harm to many current Pell grant recipients and their institutions. It is argued that focus on budgetary advantages ignores potential dislocations…

In response to Fischer (HE 527 626), the author considers a proposal to simplify and unify need analysis in Pell grants and other federal need-based student aid as appropriate. It is also argued that a single need analysis is needed because the complexity of the existing systems is a barrier to achieving the programs' central goal. (MSE)

A discussion of the two systems of need analysis used for Pell grants and other large federal need-based student-aid programs looks at the reasons for different systems and examines the usefulness of simplification to one. Budgetary feasibility, distributional implications, alternative cost-saving reforms, and effects on public confidence are…

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…

It is argued that public investment in student financial aid should be evaluated based on tax revenue returns resulting from the expenditure. A model for estimating tax revenue returns from gains in educational attainment attributable to student aid is developed, and impact of aid on access and persistence is examined. (Author/MSE)

Research on changes in the design of the federal Pell Grant Program between 1973-74 and 1988-89 is reported, with focus on changes in the formulas used to calculate the Student Aid Index and the payment schedule, especially with reference to actual direct and indirect college attendance costs. (Author/MSE)

A study of possible modifications to the Chapter 1 formula examined whether such change might better target the federal funds to the needs of low-achieving students in high poverty areas. The study used data from a national evaluation of Chapter 1. The data underwent a multiple regression analysis focusing on the relationship between low…

Analysis of the income-contingent repayment mechanism of the federal direct lending program suggests that it will be considerably more expensive than other repayment options in total interest costs for many; lead to hefty tax liabilities for some; be administratively cumbersome, vulnerable to fraud and abuse, and costly to taxpayers; and invite…

Kanawha County (West Virginia) schools use Z-scores to identify elementary students eligible for Chapter 1 services in reading and mathematics. A probit analysis of over 500 previously served students was used to determine the variables and weights in the Z-score equations. Independent variables were chosen from those commonly used to identify…

The U.S. Census Bureau's Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates (SAIPE) Program produces poverty and income estimates for states, counties, and school districts on an annual basis. These estimates provide updated income and poverty statistics, which are used for the administration of federal programs and the allocation of federal funds to local…