For a lot of people in Gen Z, college is still seen as important, but actually paying for it is a different story.
According to a poll from Gallup and the Walton Family Foundation, over four in five Gen Z students say a college education matters. At the same time, only 62% say they actually plan to attend after high school, and even fewer feel confident about the cost. Only 53% of students who want to go to college believe they can afford it. That number drops even more for Black students, with just 39% saying they think they could pay for higher education.
This gap says a lot. Students are not just thinking about where they want to go to school anymore; they are thinking about whether it is worth it financially and what kind of debt they might end up with after graduating.
This is where schools like Slippery Rock University try to step in.
According to SRU’s official website, “a university education requires a significant investment of time, effort, and money,” and the school says it believes affordability is a key part of that investment. Tuition and fees are set by the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education’s Board of Governors, and while costs can change, the university emphasizes making education accessible.
A big part of that comes down to financial aid. SRU offers different types of aid that fall into two main categories, gift aid and self-help aid. Gift aid includes things like grants and scholarships, and these do not have to be paid back. These can be based on financial need, academic performance or even a student’s major. Examples include Federal Pell Grants, state grants, and TEACH Grants for students planning to go into education.
Scholarships are another major way students can lower costs. First year students can receive scholarships based on their application, FAFSA or specific talents like music, art or athletics. SRU also encourages students to keep applying for scholarships even after their first year, including ones offered through departments or alumni.
There are also self-help options like work study and loans. Work study allows students to earn money through jobs on campus or in the community, which can help cover expenses while also building experience. Loans are available too, but SRU recommends students only borrow what they actually need.
For a generation that is constantly hearing about student debt and rising tuition, these options matter. A lot of students are trying to figure out if college is something they can realistically afford, not just something they want to do.
SRU’s focus on affordability shows how colleges are starting to respond to these concerns. It is not just about getting students in the door anymore; it is about making sure they have the support to stay and succeed without overwhelming financial stress.
For students here, that can make a big difference in deciding whether college feels possible or out of reach.
