Examining Pell Grant Influence on College Completion in Alabama Higher Education

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  In Roundtable Session: Equity, Access, and Targeted Funding in Education Policy

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between Pell Grants and college completion rates across 32 public higher education institutions in Alabama from 2009 to 2021. Using longitudinal state-level data and panel regression analysis with both fixed and random effects, we explore the effects of Pell Grant allocations on completion across institutions and key racial groups. Pell Grant was found to significantly influence completion rates, highlighting its importance in promoting degree attainment. Further analysis showed racial differences in responsiveness, with Hispanic students benefiting the most. We conclude that equitable and sustained distribution of financial aid is essential to closing completion gaps across institutional types and demographic groups.

Authors

• Moses Oladele Ogunniran, University of Alabama

• Hee Jung Gong, University of Alabama

• Noel E. Keeney, University of Alabama