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January 10, 2023
Report 414 | Memo 1173

Out of Reach: Examining the Price of Higher Education in Michigan

Kindly consider a $50 donation for unlimited access to this important report.
We have always made all of our publications, whether in paper or electronic format, available to all without charge. We will continue to provide unrestricted access to every publication in our library. 

To ensure continued free access, we are asking YOU to help with a $50 charitable donation (or what you can afford) to the Citizens Research Council of Michigan TODAY to ensure timely and comprehensive updates on Michigan taxes. Donations of any amount are appreciated. Please consider making your donation recurring.

In a nutshell

  • Growth in tuition and fee charges at public universities and community colleges is making college less affordable to the typical household. For public universities, average annual charges as a percentage of median household income have grown almost three-fold over the last three decades.
  • Tuition has risen significantly faster than institutional spending, so spending alone cannot explain the sharp growth in tuition charges. Data analysis suggests that slow growth in public operating support has been a key driver, especially for public universities.
  • While growth in financial aid grants has helped mitigate some of the out-of-pocket tuition and fee costs to students and families, affordability has still declined even after factoring in increased financial aid availability.
January 10, 2023
Report 414 | Memo 1173

Out of Reach: Examining the Price of Higher Education in Michigan

Kindly consider a $50 donation for unlimited access to this important report.
We have always made all of our publications, whether in paper or electronic format, available to all without charge. We will continue to provide unrestricted access to every publication in our library. 

To ensure continued free access, we are asking YOU to help with a $50 charitable donation (or what you can afford) to the Citizens Research Council of Michigan TODAY to ensure timely and comprehensive updates on Michigan taxes. Donations of any amount are appreciated. Please consider making your donation recurring.

In a nutshell

  • Growth in tuition and fee charges at public universities and community colleges is making college less affordable to the typical household. For public universities, average annual charges as a percentage of median household income have grown almost three-fold over the last three decades.
  • Tuition has risen significantly faster than institutional spending, so spending alone cannot explain the sharp growth in tuition charges. Data analysis suggests that slow growth in public operating support has been a key driver, especially for public universities.
  • While growth in financial aid grants has helped mitigate some of the out-of-pocket tuition and fee costs to students and families, affordability has still declined even after factoring in increased financial aid availability.

Stay informed of new research published and other Citizens Research Council news.
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