Financial Reform Leads to Course, Graduation Increases

Ancilla College NEWMore Hoosiers are graduating college on time.

That’s according to a report from the Indiana Commission for Higher Education. The report says that since financial aid reform was adopted in 2013, the number of college students taking and completing the minimum number of courses needed to graduate on time has increased by double digits.

Ancilla College Admissions Director Eric Wignall says they have seen similar results, but there are benefits to completing coursework on time.

“You’re more hirable, you’re more eligible for being hired by companies that are looking for trained people, but you’re also less likely to be fired,” says Wignall.

More than $300-milion is awarded in need-based college financial aid is awarded to Indiana students.

According to language in the House Bill, 30 credits must be completed to meet the minimum requirements under the law. The report says both O’Bannon and 21st Century Scholars programs have reported similar increases in course load.

Wignall says graduating on time means quite a few things.

“If you’re graduated in four years, you’re first of all looking better to any potential employer and people with college degrees, associates or bachelor’s degrees are far less likely to be turned out during an economic downturn,” says Wignall.

Many legislators had the aim of improving the return on investment for students.