The creation of the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s (NCAA) transfer portal, an online database where student-athletes submit their names with the hopes of transferring to athletic programs at other colleges and universities, has revolutionized the landscape of student-athlete recruitment and mobility. Like the portal for collegiate student-athletes; high school students will be entering their own version of a “transfer portal” at the conclusion of their time in secondary school. There are many students who will be graduating with a high school diploma and will thus qualify for federal student aid to help support their matriculation into a higher education institution.
Dr. Marcus Bright
To address this critical issue, intentional pathways must be developed for non-graduating high school students to help them achieve key educational milestones and acquire marketable skills. One such initiative that holds promise is the U.S. Department of Education's Ability to Benefit (ATB) which offers an alternative route for students without a diploma to access federal student aid. According to the department’s website, students can qualify if they:
“1. Pass an independently administered, Department of Education approved ATB test.
2. Complete at least six credit hours, or the equivalent coursework (225 clock hours), that are applicable toward a degree or certificate offered by the postsecondary institution.
3. Participate in a State process approved by the Department.”
