Report lauds California as country’s most affordable higher education option

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California's vast system of inexpensive community colleges has earned the state the top ranking — and the only passing grade in the nation — in a new analysis of America's college affordability.

But that distinction may be short lived as the state proposes tuition increases at its system of 109 community colleges and eyes budget cuts at its four-year universities. Until then, the National Center for Public Policy and Higher Education concludes that California schools' easy access is unique across the country.

"Children from even the poorest family can afford to attend,'' said Joni Finney, vice president of the Center. "We found that no other state has a such a public policy in place.''

California was the only state to receive a passing grade in affordability from the San Jose-based center, which conducted the national study. It also ranked well above the national average in a measure of residents who have a bachelor's degree.

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