Students
High schoolers say school counselors emphasize college pathways, not CTE
A report released Monday by the RAND Corporation found that 66% of high school students from middle-income families said educators strongly emphasized four-year colleges when discussing future paths, but only 11% of students mentioned community colleges, 16% mentioned technical training and apprenticeships, and 17% mentioned full-time work. Based on three national surveys of district leaders, principals, and students conducted during the 2025-26 school year, the report reveals a mismatch between school guidance and students' actual needs.
20 Michigan colleges join new direct admissions program
The Michigan College Access Network (MCAN) has launched the MI College Match direct admission program, with 20 in-state colleges participating. Students can upload their transcripts through a free online portal and receive automatic admission offers without needing essays or recommendation letters. The portal opened on Wednesday, and students who complete their materials by September 21 will receive admission letters by October 5.
Value Redefined: How Today's Students Assess Higher Education in 2026
Ellucian's 2026 Student Voice Report, based on a survey of over 2,000 learners, shows that students now evaluate higher education through a lens of work-life balance, financial clarity, career relevance, and lifelong learning. With 56% working full time and 74% seeking career pathways in degree planning, institutions face a pressing need to adapt.