Student Finance Policies Worldwide

This report analyzes national-level higher education financing approaches for a diverse set of countries worldwide, and how each approach relates to equity and attainment. This analysis provides a frame of reference for policymakers to use appropriate funding policies to improve equity and ensure completion. The report begins with an analysis of cost-sharing funding approaches—policies that determine who pays for higher education. We break national funding policies worldwide into four categories:

1. free tuition (both open and restricted access),
2. low tuition fees,
3. high tuition fees supported by loan schemes (mortgage-style and income-contingent), and
4. dual-track policies.