Trending
High school seniors across Ohio are about to face the usual holiday questions from well-meaning relatives. "So, where are you planning to go to college?" or "What are you going to do after you graduate?"
For a significant number of those students, the answer will depend on what they and their families can afford; and according to a recent report by the National College Attainment Network, that might be harder in Ohio than in some other states.
"When available resources do not cover those costs (tuition, books, housing, food, transportation and other necessities), students may have to borrow more, work longer hours, enroll part time, or leave college before completing," NCAN reported.
And, according to the report, Ohio places a "larger-than-average share of public higher education costs on students and families."
The State Higher Education Executive Officers Association issued a 2025 State Higher Education Finance report, which said during that year students contributed 54.9% of total public higher education revenue in Ohio, compared with 48% across the Midwest and 38.4% nationally.
NCAN says only 6% of public bachelor's-granting institutions in Ohio are affordable, with the average affordability gap being $4,680.
On the other hand, 50% of Ohio's community colleges are considered affordable, with the average gap there being only $1,134.
For its part, the NCAN recommended the Buckeye State should establish a supplemental Ohio College Opportunity Grant for Pell-eligible students, allow the OCOG to cover textbooks and required course material after tuition and general fees are paid, and invest at least $250 million per year in the program.
"For too many Ohio students, the question is not whether they have the talent or determination to earn a degree, but whether they can afford to get there and stay there," said Daniel Diaz Nilsson, chief research and impact officer at College Now Greater Cleveland. "Strengthening OCOG helps remove financial barriers so students can enroll, persist, complete their education, and pursue meaningful careers. Investing in students is an investment in Ohio's future."
As they consider such a tactic, Ohio lawmakers must also look at other ways they can support higher education and job training in a state where public officials say they are always looking to recruit new large employers. Avoiding adding new mandated costs to colleges at the same time lawmakers are demanding they cut their budgets is a start.