How the U.S. Supports Higher Education

Research and analysis on state and federal policies to aid students, families, and institutions

Updated:   December 22, 2021 Read time:
Projects: Fiscal Federalism
Higher Education Spending
Higher Education
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This page is no longer being updated. For more information on Pew’s research on the costs and funding of higher education, please visit the Student Loan Initiative.


The federal government and the states provide substantial resources for higher education, through direct spending and tax provisions that reduce revenue. This collection of resources explores how postsecondary education is funded at both levels of government and how that support varies by state.

Issue Brief October 15, 2019

Two Decades of Change in Federal and State Higher Education Funding

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Issue Brief October 15, 2019

States and the federal government have long provided substantial financial support for higher education, but in recent years, their respective levels of contribution have shifted significantly.

Report February 22, 2017

Supporting Higher Education Through the Tax Code

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Report February 22, 2017

To maximize the impact of higher education investments and achieve desired policy goals, policymaker should have knowledge of the full range of assistance provided to institutions and students. This means having an understanding of the billions of dollars made available through spending programs and the tax code.

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