Education tax credits provide federal financial aid to a wide expanse of American taxpayers; however, little research or analysis has been done on these costly programs. There has been little evidence of its link to college enrollment growth. This descriptive paper outlines the establishment of education tax credits, their original intent, and the…

The uneven but significant role of policy research in forming federal student financial aid programs in the last 15 years is discussed and the implications for the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act in the mid-1980's are examined. (MSE)

The popularity of no need scholarships in the United States, the ebb and flow of federal financial aid programs, and the changing academic character of the student body served and influenced by these efforts are described. The use of scholarships as recruiting tools is discussed. (MLW)

Cutbacks and changes in federal commitment to student financial aid programs are outlined, and examples of alternatives to traditional sources for aid funds are discussed. Examples include institutional investment policies, state programs, community-based funding, a national tax-exempt funding vehicle, and educational savings plans. (MSE)

This survey concludes that, overall, student debt has not caused most borrowers to make lifestyles changes nor regret their educational investment. Discussion analyzes borrower debt levels; payment-to-income and debt-to-income ratios; noneducation debt burden; student perceptions about borrowing and debt; effect of borrowing on decision making;…