Uncertain Recovery for Community Colleges: Findings from the 2024 National Survey of Finance and Access

The 2024 National Survey of Finance and Access, conducted by The University of Alabama's Education Policy Center (EPC), draws on responses from state community college leaders in 45 states who possess broad knowledge across all educational sectors. The survey reveals concerning financial prospects for public higher education. State operating budget increases are projected below inflation (2.4% vs. 2.5%), with tuition expected to rise across sectors by an average of 2.3%. Community colleges show the strongest enrollment growth at 2.2%. Nearly half of the respondents cited recession as a major budget concern. A significant majority (63%) indicated that uncertain state funding threatens progress to improve access and completion. The slow FAFSA rollout compounds these challenges, creating a difficult environment for institutions supporting student success initiatives. These findings indicate a continuing pattern where the “high tuition/high aid” model fails to maintain affordability and access in economic downturns.