College access is just the beginning for lower-income students. New research sheds light on the challenges these students face and offers insights into how institutions can better support them through graduation. Here are four key lessons for colleges aiming to enhance student success, particularly for low-income enrollees.

First, look beyond mere access. Despite the widespread belief that higher education promotes economic mobility, lower-income students still face significant disparities in college completion. A recent study from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, published in AERA Open, identified colleges with strong outcomes for Pell Grant recipients. These institutions not only enroll but also graduate a higher percentage of low-income students compared to their wealthier peers. The study analyzed data from 1,462 four-year institutions from 2015-16 to 2019-20, evaluating colleges based on access, degree completion, and postgraduation earnings. The findings challenge the notion that only certain types of institutions can succeed in supporting low-income students.

Second, recognize the academic impact of financial strain. Many college students struggle to cover basic needs, often resorting to credit cards to finance expenses like food, housing, and transportation. A survey by Trellis Strategies found that 54% of undergraduate students used credit cards in 2025, up from 43% in 2018. Only 47% of cardholders paid their balances in full each month, leading to financial stress. The survey revealed that 60% of students with unpaid balances reported difficulty concentrating on their studies due to financial worries. This highlights the importance of addressing financial strain to improve academic performance.

Third, close the emergency aid gap. Unexpected expenses are a major barrier to student persistence. Emergency aid, a timely grant that helps cover unforeseen costs, can significantly boost a student’s chances of staying enrolled and completing a degree. However, an analysis from the Hope Center for Student Basic Needs at Temple University found that the share of students receiving emergency aid plummeted from 44% in fall 2021 to 4% in fall 2025. This decline suggests that colleges may not be effectively promoting or implementing these programs. Emergency aid is crucial for helping students respond quickly to financial crises, unlike traditional aid which is distributed on a fixed schedule.

Fourth, address food insecurity proactively. Pell Grant recipients are nearly twice as likely to experience food insecurity compared to non-Pell recipients. An analysis from the Institute for Higher Education Policy found that 42% of Pell Grant recipients faced food insecurity, versus 22% of other students. Food insecurity can severely hinder a student’s ability to stay enrolled and complete their degree. Marián Vargas, a former IHEP assistant director of research, emphasized that students should not have to choose between eating and staying in college. She noted that supports like Pell and SNAP are essential for expanding opportunity and supporting student success, but current support levels are insufficient.

Collectively, these findings underscore the need for comprehensive strategies to support lower-income students throughout their college journey. By recognizing and addressing financial strain, closing the emergency aid gap, and tackling food insecurity, colleges can better ensure that all students have the resources they need to succeed.

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