By
September 10, 2003

Editor:

Sean Crofton’s otherwise observant editorial misses a detail describing federal financial aid. He uses a number, $65 billion, that is much more than the entire Department of Education budget.

This false figure was invented for a recent Congressional report by combining grants and work-study with loans. As most UR students could explain to the Congress, there’s a difference. Yes, the government allows $50 billion annually in student loans, but 95% of those loans are paid back with interest.

The true figure? This year true US government spending on college financial aid is about $13 billion, or less than $1,000 per student.

Jonathan BurdickDean of Admissions and Financial Aiddeanafa@rochester.edu (585) 275-6805

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