On Thursday President Obama announced a new proposal for free community college for those "who are willing to work for it."
It’s unknown how much the plan would cost — but white house officials said the price tag would be quote - “significant.” If all 50 states participate, the proposal could benefit 9 million students each year and save students an average of $3,800 in tuition, the White House said.
The proposal would make two years of community college free for students of any age with a C+ average who attend school at least half-time and who are making “steady progress” toward their degree.
To be eligible, community colleges would have to offer academic programs that fully transfer credits to local public four-year colleges and universities or training programs with high graduation rates that lead to in-demand degrees and certificates.
Federal funding would cover three-quarters of the average cost of community college - states would need to pick up the rest of the tab.
Jen Wang is the policy director for the organization Young Invincible which focuses on the needs of the millennial generation.
