About the Intervention
The Degree Project (TDP) is a merit-based college financial aid program that provides up to $12,000 in grant funding (maximum $6,000 per year) to students in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The program targets first-time ninth graders in 18 randomly selected high schools. To receive funding, students must graduate high school on time with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5, maintain 90% attendance, complete the FAFSA, and attend one of 66 eligible colleges in Wisconsin. The grant amount is sufficient to cover all tuition and fees at two-year colleges (free college) and substantially reduces costs at four-year colleges. The program makes an early commitment by announcing the aid offer to students in ninth grade. Students receive regular communications from the program administrator (Great Lakes Higher Education Corporation) including letters and updates on their eligibility status. School counselors are also encouraged to communicate with eligible students about the program. The aid is 'last dollar,' meaning students use other forms of public funding first before accessing TDP funds.
Statistical Findings
Positive effect: on two-year college graduation
No effect: on four-year college graduation
No effect: on overall college enrollment
No effect: on high school GPA
No effect: on high school attendance
No effect: on high school graduation
No effect: on test scores
Positive effect: on college expectations
Positive effect: on participation in college access programs
Positive effect: on number of colleges applied to
Positive effect: on FAFSA completion
No effect: on incarceration
No effect: on teen pregnancy
No effect: on employment
No effect: on earnings
More Intervention Details
Focus Areas
Economically DisadvantagedPrograms & Services
General Education, Title IDelivery Methods
N/ADisability Support
N/ATarget Groups
Student(s)Citation
Douglas N., H. & Jonathan, M. (2021). Optimal College Financial Aid: Theory and Evidence on Free College, Early Commitment, and Merit Aid from an Eight-Year Randomized Trial. EdWorkingPaper No. 21-393 (ED618296). ERIC. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED618296.pdf.
Study Demographics
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Geographical Setting
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