Research in ScienceDirect notes that rapid enrollment expansions in adult education can sometimes strain resources like teacher credentials and per-pupil expenditure, potentially leading to higher dropout rates.
Many "Promise" (free college) programs still exclude older students through strict age or recent-high-school-graduation requirements. A report from the Institute for Women's Policy Research highlights that mature students often struggle to meet full-time enrollment intensity requirements due to family and work obligations. free school mature
While mature students (age 25+) enroll at higher rates when costs are removed, they often have lower persistence rates—under 50% compared to roughly 80% for younger students—indicating that tuition coverage alone may not be enough to ensure completion. free school mature