The cost of tuition is arguably the most critical factor when choosing a college. Tuition seems to rise yearly, making it increasingly more challenging for students without the funds to further their education.
Luckily for Bradley students, the institution has made efforts to help qualified students earn their degrees. Wednesday, the university announced the Bradley Commitment, a new tuition program that covers the cost of Bradley’s tuition outside of funds issued by the state, federal, institutional or private awards.
Students should appreciate the gesture from a university that has gradually raised tuition over the years; however, the execution could be better.
For starters, one of the Commitment’s requirements is eligibility for the Pell Grant. The ceiling of $65,000 for parents’ annual gross income for the Bradley Commitment is not necessary when the Pell Grant requires it to be less than $60,000.
There are also many students who pay for school without their parents’ help. Because of this, the income-based requirement limits funding for the students who may need it the most.
An increase in family income can also disqualify a student from receiving this extra grant while not guaranteeing the additional salary will effectively cover costs.
Bradley’s attempt to be more inclusive and accessible to a community that may not be able to afford higher education is a step in the right direction.
No matter what, the Bradley Commitment will bring frustration. For new freshmen and for those who barely fall outside the requirements, it may feel as if they’ve been scammed out of an opportunity that could change their future plans.
As frustrating as some of these limitations may feel, they are vital for keeping Bradley a successful university. Considering Bradley’s struggle with finances in the past few years, it would be reckless to give out more than they can afford unless the students want majors to face even more cuts or changes.