Beyond Access: Understanding Financial, Cultural, and Structural Barriers to Persistence for 21st Century Scholars

Abstract

The 21st Century Scholars Program has dramatically increased college access for low-income and first-generation students in Indiana by covering full tuition at public institutions. Despite an 88% matriculation rate, fewer than half of Scholars complete a post-secondary credential. This mixed-methods work explores the cultural, structural, and economic factors influencing college persistence among Scholars. Quantitative data from administrative records and student surveys, alongside qualitative interviews, reveal three primary barriers: non-tuition financial stressors, inconsistent institutional support, and limited cultural capital among first-generation students. While persistence rates have improved modestly over time—particularly at four-year institutions—racial disparities remain significant. Based on these findings, we recommend increasing flexibility in enrollment requirements, offering support to offset non-tuition expenses, and enhancing navigational and community-building supports for first-generation students.