Scholarships and Support Help Students Return to College

Programs and initiatives aim to make higher education more accessible after pandemic disruptions.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 12:58pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph in soft, warm tones depicting the blurred silhouettes of several people walking together on a college campus, conveying a sense of community and educational opportunity.New scholarship and support programs aim to make higher education more accessible for students impacted by the pandemic.Madison Today

After the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted education for many, colleges and universities across the country are now offering increased scholarships, financial aid, and other support to help students, especially those from underserved communities, return to campus and continue their studies.

Why it matters

The pandemic had a significant impact on college enrollment, with many students forced to delay or abandon their higher education plans due to economic hardship, health concerns, and other challenges. These new scholarship and support programs are crucial for helping students, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, overcome barriers and get back on track with their academic and career goals.

The details

Colleges are utilizing a variety of methods to encourage student re-enrollment, including expanding need-based grants, offering tuition discounts, providing emergency aid for housing and food insecurity, and increasing mental health resources. Many institutions are also partnering with local organizations to connect students with community-based support services.

  • In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, colleges have been rolling out these new student support initiatives over the past 12-18 months.
  • The goal is to have these programs fully operational and accessible to students by the start of the 2026-2027 academic year.

The players

Colleges and Universities

Higher education institutions across the United States that are implementing new scholarship, financial aid, and student support programs to help increase access and retention.

Community Organizations

Local non-profit groups, social service providers, and other community-based partners that are collaborating with colleges to connect students to additional resources and support.

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What they’re saying

“These scholarship and aid programs are a game-changer for students who were forced to put their college plans on hold. It's giving them a second chance to pursue their dreams.”

— Sarah Williamson, Director of Financial Aid, University of Wisconsin-Madison

“We've seen firsthand how the pandemic widened existing inequities in higher ed access. That's why it's so important for us to partner with local organizations and remove as many barriers as possible for students.”

— Dr. Amara Lakhani, Vice Provost for Student Success, University of California-Berkeley

What’s next

Colleges plan to continue expanding these student support initiatives over the next several academic years, with the goal of making higher education more accessible and affordable for all.

The takeaway

The new scholarship and aid programs being rolled out by colleges nationwide represent a concerted effort to help students, especially those from marginalized communities, overcome the educational disruptions caused by the pandemic and get back on track with their academic and career goals.