What the Potential Sale of the GRE and TOEFL Means for Graduate School Applicants

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News that the GRE and TOEFL may be sold by ETS has sparked widespread discussion among graduate school applicants, universities, and admissions experts. These exams have long been central to graduate admissions—especially for international students—and any ownership change could reshape how they are administered, scored, or even required.

While the sale is not yet finalized, it’s worth exploring what this shift could mean for applicants preparing for the 2026 admissions cycle and beyond.

🌟 Why the GRE and TOEFL Sale Matters

The GRE and TOEFL are two of the most widely used standardized tests in the world. A change in ownership could influence:

  • Test availability
  • Pricing
  • Scoring methods
  • Security and proctoring
  • University acceptance policies

Because these exams play such a large role in graduate admissions, even small changes can have big implications.

📈 Potential Advantages for Applicants

1. Improved Test Experience

A new owner may invest in better technology, faster score reporting, or more flexible testing options. Many applicants hope for smoother online testing and fewer technical issues.

2. More Competitive Pricing

If the new owner aims to expand market share, test fees could become more affordable—especially beneficial for international applicants who often face higher costs.

3. Expanded Global Access

A buyer with a larger international footprint could increase the number of testing centers or remote‑testing options, making the exams more accessible worldwide.

4. Faster Innovation

New leadership may modernize the exams, update question formats, or streamline registration and accommodations processes.

⚠️ Potential Disadvantages or Uncertainties

1. Changes to Test Prep Strategies and Score Percentiles

If the new owner updates question types, scoring methods, or test difficulty, prep materials may become outdated quickly. This could force applicants to adjust study strategies mid‑cycle. Additionally, any recalibration of score percentiles could shift how competitive certain scores appear, creating uncertainty for applicants trying to benchmark their performance.

2. Policy Changes During Transition

Any major organizational shift can lead to temporary confusion. Applicants may see updates to test formats, score reporting, or registration systems.

3. Possible Delays or Technical Issues

Transitions often come with growing pains. Test‑takers could experience scheduling delays or system updates that affect preparation timelines.

4. Shifts in University Requirements

If the GRE or TOEFL changes significantly, some programs may adjust their testing policies—either tightening or relaxing requirements.

5. Pricing Could Increase

While competition could lower costs, a new owner might also raise prices to recoup acquisition expenses.

🎓 What Applicants Should Do Now

Even with uncertainty, applicants can stay ahead by:

  • Monitoring announcements from ETS and major universities
  • Taking the GRE or TOEFL earlier if you want to avoid potential transition issues
  • Considering alternative tests (e.g., GMAT, IELTS, Duolingo English Test) if programs allow them
  • Staying flexible with timelines and test-prep strategies

Graduate programs typically give applicants plenty of notice before making major admissions changes, so no one will be caught off guard.

🧠 Final Thoughts

The potential sale of the GRE and TOEFL represents a major shift in the graduate admissions landscape, but it’s not a reason to panic. Most changes—if they occur—will roll out gradually. For now, applicants should stay informed, plan ahead, and remain adaptable.

The core of a strong application remains the same: academic performance, research or professional experience, compelling essays, and strong recommendations.

The Pros and Cons of Taking a Gap Year Before Graduate School: A 2026 Applicant’s Guide

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Taking a gap year before graduate school has become increasingly common as applicants look for ways to strengthen their profiles, gain clarity about their goals, and build real‑world experience. But a gap year isn’t automatically the right choice for everyone. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages can help you decide whether stepping away from academics for a year will boost your application—or slow your momentum.

This blog breaks down the key factors to consider as you plan your path to graduate school.

🌟 Advantages of Taking a Gap Year Before Grad School

1. Time to Strengthen Your Application

A gap year gives you the breathing room to improve your test scores, refine your personal statement, or gain additional research or work experience. Many applicants use this time to address weaknesses—such as limited extracurriculars or unclear academic goals—before applying.

2. Professional Experience That Adds Value

Graduate programs increasingly value applicants who bring real‑world experience. Whether you work in a lab, a nonprofit, a corporate role, or a creative field, hands‑on experience can deepen your understanding of your discipline and make your application more compelling.

3. Financial Breathing Room

Graduate school can be expensive, especially for programs with limited funding. A gap year allows you to save money, reduce debt, and prepare for tuition, relocation, and living expenses. Even one year of full‑time income can make a meaningful difference.

4. Personal Growth and Clarity

Stepping away from academics can help you reflect on your long‑term goals and confirm that graduate school is the right next step. Many students enter their programs more focused, confident, and motivated after taking time off.

5. Stronger Letters of Recommendation

Supervisors from gap‑year jobs or research positions often provide detailed, persuasive recommendation letters that highlight your maturity, work ethic, and potential—qualities graduate programs value.

⚠️ Disadvantages of Taking a Gap Year Before Grad School

1. Loss of Academic Momentum

Some students find it difficult to return to the structure and intensity of academic life after time away. If you thrive in continuous academic environments, a gap year may disrupt your rhythm.

2. Delayed Career Timeline

Taking a gap year pushes back your graduation and entry into the workforce. For applicants eager to begin their careers—or those pursuing long academic paths—this delay may feel significant.

3. Risk of an Unproductive Year

A gap year only benefits your application if you use it intentionally. Admissions committees may question a year with little professional or academic development.

4. Potential Delays in Test Preparation

If you plan to use your gap year to study for the GRE, you’ll need discipline and structure. Without a clear plan, it’s easy to fall behind or postpone test dates.

5. Financial Uncertainty

While some applicants save money during a gap year, others may face financial strain if they struggle to find stable employment or relocate for short‑term opportunities.

🧭 Should You Take a Gap Year? Key Questions to Consider

  • Do you need more time to strengthen your application?
  • Would professional experience help clarify your academic goals?
  • Are you feeling burnt out from school?
  • Can you use the year productively and intentionally?
  • Will delaying graduate school affect your long‑term plans?

Your answers can help determine whether a gap year will elevate your application—or simply postpone your goals.

🧠 Final Thoughts

A gap year can be a powerful opportunity for growth, reflection, and professional development—but only when approached with purpose. For some applicants, it leads to stronger applications, clearer goals, and better financial readiness. For others, staying on the traditional timeline is the better choice.

The key is to evaluate your goals, strengths, and circumstances honestly. With the right strategy, either path can set you up for success in graduate school and beyond.

GRE Accommodations for Graduate School Applicants in 2026: What You Need to Know

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Applying to graduate school is a major milestone—but for students with disabilities or health-related needs, standardized testing like the GRE can present additional challenges. Fortunately, the Educational Testing Service (ETS), which administers the GRE, offers a comprehensive set of accommodations to ensure equitable access for all test-takers.

If you’re planning to take the GRE in 2026, here’s what you need to know about requesting and receiving accommodations.

🧾 Who Qualifies for GRE Accommodations?

ETS provides accommodations for individuals with:

  • Learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, ADHD)
  • Physical disabilities (e.g., mobility impairments, chronic health conditions)
  • Psychological disabilities (e.g., anxiety disorders)
  • Sensory impairments (e.g., visual or hearing impairments)

To qualify, you must submit documentation from a qualified professional that supports your request and demonstrates how your condition affects your ability to take the GRE under standard conditions.

🛠️ Types of GRE Accommodations Available

ETS offers a variety of accommodations tailored to individual needs, including:

Accommodation Type Description
Extended Time 25%, 50%, or 100% additional time for test-takers with processing speed or attention challenges
Extra Breaks Additional breaks between sections, either standard or as-needed
Screen Readers & Magnification For visually impaired test-takers; includes JAWS and refreshable braille displays
Scribe or Human Reader For individuals with physical or visual impairments
Paper-Based Testing Available for those unable to use a computer-based format
Assistance Devices Use of medical devices or ergonomic equipment with prior approval
📅 How to Apply for GRE Accommodations
  1. Register for the GRE: Start by creating an ETS account and selecting your test date.
  2. Submit a Request: Complete the Testing Accommodations Request Form and upload supporting documentation.
  3. Wait for Approval: ETS typically responds within 2–3 weeks.
  4. Schedule Your Test: Once approved, you’ll receive instructions for booking your accommodated test session.

Important: Apply as early as possible—ideally at least 6 weeks before your intended test date—to ensure enough time for processing and scheduling.

🎓 Why It Matters for Graduate School Applicants

  • Level the Playing Field: Accommodations ensure you can demonstrate your true academic potential.
  • No Penalty for Using Accommodations: Schools do not see whether you received accommodations—your score report looks the same.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing your needs are supported can reduce test-day anxiety and improve performance.

✅ Tips for a Smooth Process

  • Review ETS Guidelines: Visit the ETS GRE Accommodations page for detailed instructions. (The URL changes periodically.)
  • Gather Documentation Early: Ensure your medical or psychological evaluations are current and meet ETS criteria.
  • Consult Your School: Many universities have disability resource centers that can help with documentation and support.
  • Don’t Wait: The earlier you apply, the more flexibility you’ll have in scheduling your test.

🧠 Final Thoughts

GRE accommodations are designed to ensure fairness and accessibility for all test-takers. If you have a documented disability or health-related need, don’t hesitate to explore your options. With the right support, you can approach the GRE with confidence and focus on what truly matters—showcasing your academic potential.

Why Top Universities Are Cutting Graduate School Enrollment in 2026—and What It Means for Applicants

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A sweeping federal endowment tax hike, signed into law in late 2025, is reshaping the landscape of elite higher education. Targeting private universities with endowments exceeding $1 billion, the tax is forcing institutions like Yale, Harvard, and Stanford to make difficult financial decisions—including reducing student enrollment.

For 2026 college and graduate school applicants, these changes could significantly impact admissions, financial aid, and long-term planning.

🧾 What Is the Endowment Tax and Why It Matters

The endowment tax, originally introduced in 2017 and expanded in 2025, imposes a levy on the investment income of wealthy private universities. The 2026 hike increases the tax burden on these institutions, many of which rely on endowment returns to fund:

  • Scholarships and financial aid
  • Faculty salaries and research
  • Graduate stipends and fellowships
  • Campus infrastructure and student services

With millions in additional taxes due, universities are reassessing how they allocate resources.

🏛️ How Top Universities Are Responding

University Action Taken Impact
Yale Cutting graduate student enrollment Fewer PhD slots, especially in humanities and social sciences
Harvard Hiring freezes and potential financial aid cuts May affect student support and class sizes
Princeton Budget reviews and spending reductions Could impact research funding and admissions
Stanford Preparing for staff layoffs and program cuts Possible reduction in non-STEM offerings
🎓 What This Means for 2026 Applicants
  • Increased Competition: With fewer seats, especially in graduate and PhD programs, admissions will be more selective.
  • Financial Aid Uncertainty: Some schools may reduce need-based aid or prioritize applicants who can pay full tuition.
  • Shift in Program Priorities: Universities may favor programs with higher ROI or external funding (e.g., STEM, business, law).
  • Pressure on Public Institutions: As private schools cut back, public universities may see a surge in applications, increasing competition there as well.

✅ Tips for Applicants

  • Apply Broadly: Don’t rely solely on elite institutions—include a mix of public and private schools.
  • Highlight Value: Emphasize how you align with a school’s mission, research goals, or diversity initiatives.
  • Be Financially Strategic: Research schools with strong aid guarantees or tuition-free programs (e.g., NYU Grossman for med school).
  • Stay Informed: Monitor policy changes and university announcements that may affect your target schools.

🧠 Final Thoughts

The 2026 endowment tax hike is prompting elite universities to rethink enrollment and spending. For applicants, this means adapting to a more competitive, cost-conscious admissions environment. Strategic planning, financial awareness, and a diversified school list are more important than ever.

Terminal vs. Non-Terminal Master’s Degrees: What Aspiring PhD Students Need to Know

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If you’re planning to pursue a PhD, you may be wondering whether to apply directly to doctoral programs or first complete a master’s degree. But not all master’s degrees are created equal — especially when it comes to their role in doctoral admissions.

This guide breaks down the difference between terminal and non-terminal master’s degrees, and how each affects your journey toward a PhD.

🎓 What Is a Terminal Master’s Degree?

A terminal master’s degree is a standalone graduate program designed to be the final academic credential in a field. These programs are not intended to lead directly into a PhD and are often professionally oriented.

Key Features:

  • Standalone degree with no automatic path to a PhD
  • Often coursework-focused, with limited research components
  • Common in fields like education (M.Ed.), public administration (MPA), fine arts (MFA), and business (MBA)
  • Typically 2 years in duration
  • May be ideal for career advancement or professional licensing

🎓 What Is a Non-Terminal Master’s Degree?

A non-terminal master’s degree is typically earned en route to a PhD. It’s not a final degree, but rather a milestone within a longer doctoral program.

Key Features:

  • Integrated into a PhD program
  • Often awarded after completing coursework or qualifying exams
  • Emphasizes research and academic preparation
  • Not usually pursued independently
  • Common in fields like STEM, social sciences, and humanities

🔍 Terminal vs. Non-Terminal Master’s: Key Differences

Feature Terminal Master’s Non-Terminal Master’s
Purpose Final degree for professional goals Step toward a PhD
Program Structure Standalone, often coursework-based Embedded in PhD program, research-heavy
Duration 1–2 years Varies (part of 5–7 year PhD timeline)
Research Opportunities Limited Extensive
Funding Availability Often self-funded Frequently funded (TA/RA positions)
Ideal For Career advancement, skill-building Academic or research careers

🧠 Which Should You Choose as a PhD Applicant?

Choose a Terminal Master’s if:

  • You’re unsure about committing to a PhD
  • You want to build academic credentials before applying to doctoral programs
  • You’re switching fields and need foundational coursework
  • You’re pursuing a professional career that doesn’t require a PhD

Choose a Non-Terminal Master’s if:

  • You’re accepted into a PhD program that awards a master’s along the way
  • You’re committed to a research career
  • You want to maximize funding and mentorship opportunities
  • You’re focused on publishing and academic development

💡 Pro Tip: Check Program Structure and Funding

Not all master’s programs are clearly labeled as “terminal” or “non-terminal.” Before applying:

  • Read program descriptions carefully
  • Ask admissions teams whether the degree leads to a PhD or is standalone
  • Look for research opportunities, thesis requirements, and faculty mentorship
  • Check funding availability — terminal master’s programs are often less funded than PhD tracks

📝 Final Thoughts

For aspiring PhD students, the choice between a terminal and non-terminal master’s degree can shape your academic and professional trajectory. While terminal master’s programs offer flexibility and career value, non-terminal master’s degrees are often the more direct — and funded — path to a doctorate.

Understanding your long-term goals and researching program structures will help you make the right decision for your future in academia or beyond.

The Advantages of Completing a PhD from a Top-Ranked University

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Pursuing a PhD is a major commitment — one that requires years of rigorous study, research, and dedication. But where you earn your doctorate can be just as important as the degree itself. Completing a PhD from a top-ranked university offers distinct advantages that can shape your academic and professional trajectory for decades to come.

Here are the top five benefits to consider earning a PhD from a top-ranked university.

🎓 1. Enhanced Career Opportunities

Graduates from top-tier PhD programs are more likely to secure positions at elite universities, research institutions, and high-impact industries.

  • A study by Insider Higher Ed found that over 70% of faculty at top U.S. research universities earned their PhDs from just 18 elite institutions.
  • According to the American Association for the Advancement of Science, PhD holders from top 25-ranked programs are 2–3 times more likely to land tenure-track positions than those from lower-ranked schools.

💼 2. Higher Earning Potential

Prestigious PhD programs often lead to better-paying jobs in academia, government, and industry.

  • Graduates from top-ranked universities can earn 10–25% more than peers from lower-ranked institutions, especially in competitive fields like economics, engineering, and data science.

🔬 3. Access to Cutting-Edge Research and Resources

Top universities offer unparalleled access to research funding, labs, and faculty mentorship.

  • For example, Cornell University’s PhD in Statistics emphasizes interdisciplinary research, advanced statistical theory, and collaboration across fields like biology, economics, and computer science.
  • Elite institutions often receive millions in federal research grants, allowing students to work on high-impact projects with global implications.

🌐 4. Stronger Professional Networks

Top-ranked PhD programs connect students with influential alumni, visiting scholars, and global research communities.

  • These networks can lead to collaborative research, postdoc placements, and job referrals.
  • The top graduate school programs have alumni in leadership roles across academia, government, and Fortune 500 companies.

🏆 5. Prestige and Academic Recognition

A PhD from a top-ranked university carries weight in academic publishing, grant applications, and conference invitations.

📝 Final Thoughts

While a PhD from any accredited institution can lead to success, earning your doctorate from a top-ranked university can amplify your opportunities, income, and influence. From elite faculty mentorship to global networks and research funding, the advantages are clear — and backed by data.

If you’re considering a PhD, weigh not just the program’s curriculum, but also its reputation, placement record, and research ecosystem. The right choice could shape your entire career.

Should You Go to a Different School for Graduate School? The Pros and Cons of Switching Institutions

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When it comes to choosing a graduate school, many students face a critical decision: should they stay at their undergraduate alma mater or pursue a new institution for their advanced degree? While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, there are compelling reasons to consider both options.

In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of attending a different school for graduate studies — and help you decide what’s best for your academic and professional goals.

🎓 Why Students Often Stay at Their Undergraduate Institution

Staying at the same university for graduate school can offer several advantages:

✅ Familiarity and Comfort

  • You already know the campus, faculty, and academic culture.
  • You may have established relationships with professors who can support your research or thesis.

✅ Streamlined Admissions

  • Some schools offer accelerated or guaranteed admission to their own undergraduates.
  • You may have access to internal scholarships or assistantships.

✅ Cost and Convenience

  • Staying local can reduce relocation expenses.
  • You might already have housing or part-time work in place.

🌍 Why You Should Consider a Different Graduate School

While staying put has its perks, there are strong reasons to branch out:

1. Broaden Your Academic Horizons

Different schools offer different faculty expertise, research facilities, and specializations. A new institution might better align with your evolving academic interests or career goals.

2. Expand Your Network

Attending a different school introduces you to a new set of peers, professors, and alumni — expanding your professional network and opening doors to new opportunities.

3. Boost Your Resume

Graduate programs at prestigious or specialized institutions can enhance your credentials and signal adaptability to future employers.

4. Gain a Fresh Perspective

A change in environment can challenge your thinking, expose you to new methodologies, and help you grow both personally and professionally.

5. Location Matters

A new city or region might offer better internship, research, or job prospects — especially if it’s a hub for your field (e.g., tech in Silicon Valley, finance in New York).

🔍 Questions to Ask Before Deciding

To make the best choice, consider the following:

  • Does your current school offer a top-tier program in your desired field?
  • Are there faculty members at other institutions whose research aligns more closely with your interests?
  • Will a new school offer better funding, facilities, or career placement?
  • Are you ready for a new environment, or do you thrive in familiar settings?

🧭 Final Thoughts

Choosing whether to stay at your undergraduate institution or pursue graduate school elsewhere is a deeply personal decision. While staying can offer comfort and continuity, switching schools can provide fresh opportunities, broader networks, and a competitive edge.

Ultimately, the best choice is the one that aligns with your academic goals, career aspirations, and personal growth. Do your research, talk to mentors, and trust your instincts — your future self will thank you.

Will Graduate Schools Start Accepting 3‑Year Degrees? What Students Need to Know in 2026

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As more students around the world complete their undergraduate studies in three years, a growing question is emerging: Will U.S. graduate schools begin widely accepting 3‑year bachelor’s degrees?

The short answer is that many already do — and the trend is accelerating. But acceptance varies by institution, program, and country, making it essential for applicants to understand how their degree is evaluated.

This blog breaks down the current landscape, why attitudes are shifting, and what students with 3‑year degrees can expect when applying to graduate programs in the United States.

🌍 Why 3‑Year Degrees Are Becoming More Common

Three‑year bachelor’s degrees are standard in many parts of the world, including:

  • The United Kingdom
  • India
  • Australia
  • Most of Europe (Bologna Process countries)

As global student mobility increases, U.S. graduate programs are seeing more applicants with these credentials — and many institutions are adapting.

🎓 Do U.S. Graduate Schools Accept 3‑Year Degrees?

Yes — but not universally.

A growing number of U.S. universities now accept 3‑year degrees as equivalent to a four‑year U.S. bachelor’s, especially when the degree comes from a recognized, accredited institution.

Examples of U.S. schools that accept certain 3‑year degrees include:

  • Many programs at Harvard, Stanford, MIT, and Columbia
  • Numerous public universities such as University of California campuses, University of Michigan, and UT Austin
  • Professional programs like MBA, MS, and MPH degrees at top business and public health schools

However, acceptance is not universal, and some programs still require a credential evaluation or additional coursework.

📈 Why More Graduate Schools Are Opening Their Doors to 3‑Year Degrees

1. Global competition for top talent

U.S. universities want to attract strong international applicants, many of whom come from countries where 3‑year degrees are the norm.

2. Increased use of credential evaluation services

Organizations like WES (World Education Services) often deem many 3‑year degrees equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s, giving universities confidence in their rigor.

3. Growth of accelerated and competency‑based learning

Even in the U.S., more students are completing degrees faster through AP credits, dual enrollment, and summer coursework — making the traditional four‑year model less rigid.

4. Pressure to diversify graduate cohorts

Accepting 3‑year degrees expands access for international students and strengthens global representation.

⚠️ When a 3‑Year Degree May Not Be Accepted

Some programs remain cautious, especially in fields requiring extensive foundational coursework. These may include:

  • Certain STEM master’s programs
  • Clinical or licensure‑based fields
  • Programs with strict accreditation requirements

In these cases, applicants may be asked to:

  • Complete a credential evaluation
  • Take prerequisite courses
  • Earn a postgraduate diploma or one‑year master’s before applying

🧭 How Students With 3‑Year Degrees Can Strengthen Their Applications

To improve your chances of admission:

  • Check each program’s policy — they vary widely.
  • Submit a credential evaluation early if recommended.
  • Highlight academic rigor, research, and relevant experience.
  • Showcase strong test scores (GRE, GMAT, LSAT, etc., if required).
  • Emphasize professional achievements that demonstrate readiness for graduate‑level work.

🔮 Will 3‑Year Degrees Become Widely Accepted in the Future?

All signs point toward yes. As global education systems continue to align and U.S. institutions compete for international talent, acceptance of 3‑year degrees is likely to expand.

Graduate schools increasingly recognize that:

  • Degree length does not always reflect academic rigor
  • International students bring valuable perspectives
  • Flexibility in admissions supports diversity and innovation

While not every program has updated its policies yet, the trend is clear: 3‑year degree holders have more opportunities than ever before.

📝 Final Thoughts

If you hold a 3‑year bachelor’s degree and are considering graduate study in the United States, the landscape is more welcoming than it has ever been. Policies vary by institution, but momentum is moving toward broader acceptance.

With the right preparation — and a clear understanding of each program’s requirements — students with 3‑year degrees can absolutely compete for top graduate programs.

Should You Consider a Pre-doc?

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While pre-doctoral programs are not optimal choices for everyone, they do benefit a significant number of aspiring doctoral students and we believe they are far too often overlooked. We thought we would use this blog post to share our insights into some of the potential benefits of pre-doctoral programs.

Pre-docs are paid positions at universities that work directly with faculty on research projects for a period of one to two years. Accordingly, the two biggest benefits of a pre-doc program are often the ability to clarify their specific research field and evaluate whether a Ph.D. is the ultimately the right path to pursue.

Pre-docs also gain research experience and have opportunities to impress faculty that can write helpful letters of reference for their future Ph.D. applications. The pre-docs we have worked with also report an increased confidence in faculty interactions from their acquired knowledge of the brainstorming, research, and publication processes.

Once again, just because pre-docs benefit some prospective Ph.D. applicants doesn’t mean it is best suited for your particular profile. So, as always, we are happy to have a complimentary phone call to help you determine if a pre-doc is the right choice for you.

Grand Canyon University Fined $37.7 Million

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Grand Canyon University was fined $37.7 million by the US Education Department. We want to state upfront that the school is vehemently defending itself from what it has termed “lies and deceptive statements.” In a five-page press release, the university stated, “Grand Canyon University categorically denies every accusation in the Department of Education’s statement and will take all measures necessary to defend itself from these false accusations.”

While we consider Grand Canyon University to be a for-profit university, it is considered to be a nonprofit by its accreditor as well as the IRS. In fact, Grand Canyon sued the US Education Department after the school’s request to be classified as a nonprofit was rejected. (The Trump Administration rejected the request because it believed the school was still too close to its previous parent company. The Biden Administration has not shown any signs of changing this position.)

According to the Education Department, Grand Canyon University lied to over 7,500 students about the cost of its doctoral programs and omitted the costs of “continuation courses” that are often required to finish dissertation requirements. Richard Cordray, the chief operating officer for Federal Student Aid, which is part of the Education Department explained, “GCU’s lies harmed students, broke their trust and led to unexpectedly high levels of student debt. Today, we are holding GCU accountable for its actions, protecting students and taxpayers, and upholding the integrity of the federal student aid programs.”

The Education Department has been getting tougher on for-profit schools. In fact, this is the largest fine of its kind ever issued by the department. New regulation has been passed to punish schools with high loan default rates. Thus we are not surprised that the fine was accompanied by some stipulations such as the school must report the average cost paid by doctoral students if it discloses the cost of its doctoral programs. Additionally, Grand Canyon University must notify its doctoral students on how they can file a complaint about these pricing allegations with the US Education Department.

Ph.D.s should connect with others outside their departments

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Inside Higher Ed has a nice editorial on the importance of Ph.D.s connecting with others outside their departments. We unequivocally support all of their arguments and believe the editorial is well worth the read for any Ph.D. or prospective Ph.D. candidate. Furthermore, we believe the need to connect with others outside one’s domain is good advice for all individuals at all points in their lives.

Majority of Americans Now Have Favorable Views of Online Education

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A new poll by NewsAmerica finds the majority of Americans now believe online education is the same or even better than in-person education. Varying Degrees 2022: New America’s Sixth Annual Survey on Higher Educati­­on interviewed over 1,500 Americans and found 76% of those surveyed believe post-high school education offers a good return on investment. This statistic has held steady since the survey started five years ago.

What changed — and changed quite drastically — was the favorable view toward online education. While ‘only’ 8% of Americans believe online education is better than in-person education (up from 3% last year), 17% of current students believe the quality of online instruction is better than in-person instruction. Additionally, a stunning 47% think the quality of online instruction is just as good as in-person instruction.

This is big news. The late Harvard professor Clayton Christensen predicted back in 2011 that about half of all colleges would fail by 2026. While the timing appears too ambitious, it could very well come to fruition within our lifetimes.

We believe the pandemic has accelerated the online education ‘disruption.’ Furthermore, we believe that the change in the attitude of current students is crucial to driving online education as these students will eventually replace the older survey respondents and as the quality of online educational programs continues to improve. Hopefully, the online education revolution drives down the cost of education while concurrently making it more accessible to more citizens and increasing the perceived quality over the traditional in-person education model.

Backed by insider expertise from the nation’s most selective admissions committees, our collaborative team ensures every client submits the strongest possible application.

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