Burdman, Pamela. 2005. <em>The Student Debt Dilemma: Debt Aversion as a Barrier to College Access.</em> Project on Student Debt. Accessed on July 26, 2007, from http://projectonstudentdebt.org/files/pub/DebtDilemma.pdf. <br />
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This article explores how the increasing shift from need-based grants to loans may negatively affect college-bound students who are averse to borrowing. In particular, the article claims that Latinos, low-income individuals, and those with lower educational attainment are less inclined to borrow, despite financial need. In addition, Burdman suggests that academic institutions could offer more support to students before they decide to take out loans. She finds that high school counselors are only able to answer basic questions about financial aid and are often are not available for consultation. Some community colleges only offer loans to students who request them or only guarantee loan counseling to students once they have decided to borrow. The author suggests that further research is necessary in order to explain how the "debt dilemma" deters students from considering college in the first place, and that survey instruments regarding students&#8218; perceptions and choices about paying for college would enhance knowledge of student debt aversion.<br />
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The Institute for College Access & Success (TICAS). 2007. <em>Green Lights & Red Tape: Improving Access to Financial Aid at California&#8218;s Community Colleges.</em> Berkeley, CA: TICAS.<br />
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Based on interviews with financial aid and student services administrators at 21 community colleges in California, this study details ways in which administrative practices and policies work to support or suppress student access to financial aid. College practices differ widely in the manner and timing of telling students about financial aid, helping students navigate the application process, and awarding eligible students their aid. Administrator attitudes about the role and importance of financial aid are also highlighted as critical in promoting financial aid access. The report concludes with college, state, and federal policy recommendations.