A topic being debated during the NCI Listening Sessions is personal and family contribution to the student’s education. Many aid administrators feel there has been a shift in the way families perceive saving for college. Wealthier families do not save because they feel entitled to student aid; poorer families do not save because they do not have the resources. Some financial aid administrators feel that one or more of the following approaches might encourage saving for college:

• Increasing expectations of personal/family responsibility as the student progresses through school
• Restructuring current 529 plans or other tax incentives
• Requiring community or military service and offering a college savings component
• Providing matching funds tied to saving and pursuing a college preparatory curriculum

What do you think of these ideas? How do you feel we can encourage families and individuals to save to support their education? Is it realistic to expect college savings in the 21st century?