The 2025 Student Voice Report found that 56% of individuals who have never enrolled in college cited financial uncertainty as their main reason for avoiding higher education, while 53% of high school students who don't plan to attend college identified cost as their top concern. Among students who left college without completing their degrees, nearly a quarter said they cannot afford upfront costs to return.
“Too often, learners are forced to pause or abandon their education because the path forward feels uncertain or unaffordable,” said Laura Ipsen, Ellucian's president and CEO. “This year's Student Voice Report shows that many are ready to return if given the right support.”
The findings underscore persistent affordability challenges that have long plagued American higher education, particularly as student debt levels have reached historic highs. The survey revealed that 15% of students who stopped out cited existing student debt burdens as a barrier to returning to school.
Beyond financial concerns, the research identified significant confusion among students about their educational options and pathways to completion. Only 22% of students who left college without graduating understand their remaining credit requirements, while just 15% feel confident navigating credit transfer processes.
This lack of clarity represents a substantial missed opportunity for institutions, as 60% of stop-out students indicated they would return to college if provided with a clear path to completion.
The survey found that better communication and support systems could dramatically improve student re-engagement rates.
