For-profit colleges consistently generate regulatory scrutiny and litigation because of their recruitment tactics, graduation rates, costs and loan default rates. Compared to public higher education institutions, for-profit colleges have been criticized for being more expensive with similar or worse job market outcomes for graduates, who tend to be left with higher debt. They also enroll relatively high proportions of Black and Latino students, but too often leave those students in debt and without degrees.
A report from Public Agenda explores the experiences and perspectives of for-profit college attendees based on a representative survey of 595 alumni, currently enrolled students, and non-completers fielded from March 17 to May 31, 2022, and focus groups with those populations. The research includes a comparison sample of 406 students currently enrolled at public community colleges, which tend to serve populations similar to those of for-profit colleges.
Among the report’s findings:
- Just one-third of for-profit college attendees prioritized affordability when choosing a college, yet few of them believe that cost is an indicator of quality in higher education.
- Few for-profit attendees applied to more than one college. Just over half say they learned about college through sources provided by or controlled by colleges themselves, such as advertisements or college websites. Those who spoke to recruiters gave mixed reviews.
- Few for-profit alumni believe that getting their degree was worth the cost. Half of alumni believe their college prioritized profits over students, although only about one-third of current students and non-completers believe so.
- Compared to community college students, more for-profit college attendees rely on loans to pay for college. Fewer use savings or earnings. Most for-profit alumni and non-completers with loans say that making payments is difficult. But fewer current students with loans anticipate difficulty paying.