Why Do Students Have So Much Debt?

The video explores the history and current state of student loan debt in the US. It begins with an overview of tuition costs and how students finance their education through scholarships, grants, and loans. The history of student loans is traced from the G.I. Bill to the National Defense Education Act and the Higher Education Act. Rising education costs are discussed, highlighting factors like inflation and infrastructure improvements. Government responses to loan defaults, such as Pell Grants and Sallie Mae, are examined. The video also explains different types of student loans, including subsidized, unsubsidized, and PLUS loans. Finally, it addresses the current debt situation and movements like the Occupy student debt campaign.

What was the Basic Educational Opportunity Grant Program, and who created it?

What are PLUS loans, and who can take them out?

What were some of the consequences of rising student loan debt in the US?

What are the four basic principles of the Occupy student debt campaign?