The most direct benefit is to the students themselves, who won’t have to pay tuition or mandatory fees. But there are other benefits as well, including:
Creating a spectrum of free education opportunities for high school graduates, no matter their path. Maine’s community colleges currently offer free short-term workforce training programs, which take less than a year to complete.
Increasing the number of successful students at Maine’s community colleges. Studies show full-time students have higher retention/graduation rates.
Increasing the number of young people in Maine with a credential of value. Supports MaineSpark and Maine’s 10-year economic plan goal of having 60 percent of Mainers with a credential of value by 2025, up from the current 44 percent.
Increasing Maine’s high school graduation rate. Promise of free college for high school graduates may increase graduation rates.
Encouraging young Mainers to stay in the state. Incentive to stay and get free college in Maine instead of pursuing an education or job out of state.
Attracting out-of-state families who want to live and work in a state that offers free college for their children.