Trends & Insights
As the higher education landscape changes, Optimal seeks to provide data-driven studies on important topics across our sites. Our studies use proprietary research and in-depth analysis.
Explore how the purchasing power of Pell Grants has drastically decreased over time, covering only 31% of college costs today compared to 80% in 1975. Discover the percentage of average tuition, fees, room and board covered by the maximum Pell Grant at different points in its history and how the declining value impacts the work hours needed to cover the costs of college.
Learn how Pell Grants can help low- and middle-income students afford college. This guide covers eligibility, application processes, and recent changes that make more students eligible for this essential federal aid. Discover how Pell Grants reduce student debt and expand access to higher education.
Discover 10 high-paying careers you can start with just an Associate Degree. Explore roles in healthcare, law, engineering, and more with salaries above the U.S. median and positive job outlooks. Find out why an Associate Degree might be the smart, affordable alternative to a four-year college education.
Find out which colleges are leading the way in reducing student debt, offering both an education and a path to financial freedom. Our study highlights 18 institutions that have cut student debt by $5,000 or more. Dive into our analysis to see how these colleges are making higher education more affordable and what it could mean for your future.
Discover which colleges accept Running Start credits in this detailed guide. Explore the benefits of dual enrollment programs for high school students looking to earn college credits early, including how to qualify and a list of participating colleges in states like Illinois, Indiana, Hawaii, Montana, and Washington. Ideal for students and parents aiming to reduce college costs and time.
Discover how college endowments work and learn more about their role in the financial strategies of the largest U.S. universities. From historic growth patterns to ethical investment debates, gain a deeper understanding of these significant financial entities.
Discover the universities producing international business graduates that earn the most. Our study explores salary trends for bachelor's and master's degree holders, highlighting the top institutions, salary progression, and the impact online programs have on earnings to help you find an international business degree that can lead to financial success.
Discover which colleges produce the highest-earning nursing graduates in this report examining the impact of education level and geographic location on nursing salaries. Learn about the potential for salary growth from associate to master's degrees and see how colleges across the U.S. stack up in preparing nurses for lucrative careers.
Annual tuition is more expensive in almost every state - but not all! In this data study, explore the changes in tuition across the U.S. and discover where tuition has gone up the most, changed very little, or actually gone down.
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