On the Verge: Costs and Tradeoffs Facing Community College Students

In 2015, TICAS partnered with 22 California community colleges (CCCs) to survey students on their expenses, their aid, and the choices they make when their resources do not stretch far enough. About 12,000 students responded from across the state, and more than 4,400 shared the personal stories that form the backbone of this report. This report includes key findings and quotes from our survey, as well as national research findings on the key themes that emerged. Collectively, they powerfully illustrate how student aid can help bring low-income students’ college careers and financial obligations into balance. The implications of these students’ experiences for financial aid policy are vitally important.