States consider college aid cuts; student programs at risk - USATODAY.com: At a time when many students and parents are struggling to pay for college, several cash-starved states are considering reducing funds for grants and scholarships for thousands of low- and middle-income students.
In California, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's plan to close the state's $24 billion deficit includes sharp cuts in the state's Cal Grants program, which provides up to $9,700 a year for eligible college students.
Schwarzenegger has proposed eliminating Cal Grants for new students and reducing grants for some existing students.
The plan would have an impact on more than 200,000 students, according to the Institute for College Access and Success, an advocacy group.
Democrats have vowed to fight the proposal, but for some prospective students, the damage has already been done, says acting institute Director Lauren Asher.
