Daily Lumina News 020824

This week, Dartmouth College became the first Ivy League institution to reinstate standardized testing requirements for prospective applicants. The decision is prompting another round of debate over the pros and cons of testing in admissions and—as most selective colleges approach the expiration date of their pandemic-era test-optional policies—a flurry of speculation about whether Dartmouth’s peers will fall in line.
In this interview, admissions dean Lee Coffin talks about the data behind Dartmouth’s decision.

College Unbound is an accredited college with a single degree and a unique higher ed model that allows learning to happen wherever it happens, in kitchens or even in prisons. The average time to a bachelor's degree is about two and a half years.
This podcast explores College Unbound's unconventional journey from a bold alternative to an accredited institution.

New research from a trio of organizations shows that just one-third of students who start at community colleges transfer to four-year institutions, and fewer than half of those students earn a bachelor’s degree in six years.
The reports make several recommendations aimed at bettering transfer practices and completion rates. Among the suggestions: expanding dual enrollment opportunities and encouraging students to earn their associate degrees before they go to four-year institutions.

Chris Jones leveraged the skills fostered by his college education in journalism to become a leader with a solar energy company in Indianapolis. His story underscores the value of a bachelor's degree at a time when its relevance is being questioned like never before.
There are many stories like this—stories that show college graduates make great hires because of the wider knowledge they accrue while in school. Indeed, a bachelor’s degree often sets the stage for an inquisitive, motivated life, writes Lumina Foundation's Jamie Merisotis in his latest column for Forbes.

As lawmakers continue to mull over Pell Grant eligibility for extremely short-term programs, it’s worth remembering how policy intricacies will matter in ensuring these programs have value for students and for taxpayers.
Any legislative deal would draw on the best parts of multiple bills—holding the line to require programs to demonstrate value, ensuring institutions accessing the funds are public or nonprofit institutions, and establishing guardrails that will promote strong program outcomes.

The U.S. Department of Education is touting a new plan designed to solve issues associated with this year’s rocky rollout of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and ensure colleges and universities release financial aid packages in a timely manner.
But some California campuses remain pessimistic about receiving support.