Federal student financial aid policy as it affects part-time adult students, who comprise a majority of the enrollment at community and junior colleges, is discussed. The current bias in government policy favors the traditional younger, full-time students. Government actions and legislation that bear this out are examined. (JMD)

The author asserts that current federal education policy and student aid programs effectively discriminate against older, part-time, low income students. She calls for changes aimed at achieving equity for adult, part-time learners when the Higher Education Act is considered for reauthorization. (SK)