A new report released today by NASBO, titled Improving Postsecondary Education Through the Budget Process: Challenges & Opportunities, explains that the need for continued postsecondary attainment growth, constrained state resources, rising university costs and high tuition rates call for a new approach to higher education finance. States and institutions will need to work together to find creative, innovative solutions that enhance productivity, improve results and achieve sustainable savings. NASBO’s report, written from the perspective of state budget officers, is intended to help shape and improve the dialogue between states and higher education institutions on these issues. It documents ongoing efforts focused on funding performance and results, restricting tuition increases, expanding access, improving information and increasing cost-efficiency. The report also highlights opportunities moving forward for state and higher education officials to improve postsecondary education outcomes and put public higher education on a sustainable fiscal path. The report is the culmination of a project involving numerous budget officers and funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Last year, NASBO held two convenings where members participated in engaging, thoughtful discussions on state higher education finance. The comments, recommendations, and insights shared at those convenings were extremely valuable in helping to inform the ideas presented in this report. Click below to read the full report and one-page report summary, as well as watch a short video about the issues discussed in the report.

Link(s): NASBO Report Materials