The closure of colleges across America, particularly non-profit private institutions, has accelerated since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Financial challenges, enrollment declines, and changing educational trends have contributed to this trend, impacting students' academic journeys and educational outcomes.
Enrollment Challenges: College closures, predominantly non-profit private institutions, have surged since the COVID-19 pandemic due to financial troubles and declining enrollments
Financial Struggles: 68% of the closed colleges faced financial issues, highlighting a significant reliance on tuition-driven revenue.
Admission Cliff: The impending decline in high school graduate populations, particularly in certain regions, is a significant challenge for enrollment and admissions offices.
Stimulus Impact: The removal of federal stimulus funds further strained struggling institutions already grappling with financial uncertainties.
Diverse Impact: Over 60,000 students were affected by 91 closures or mergers since 2016, with religious schools facing considerable challenges.
Student Outcomes: Students from closed colleges often face difficulties in re-enrolling and completing their degrees, with for-profit students experiencing worse outcomes.