Senate expands direct admissions program to allow private nonprofit colleges to opt in

The Senate approved House Bill 2421A to expand Oregon's direct admissions program by allowing private nonprofit colleges to opt in alongside public colleges and universities.

Sponsor Senator Frederick said the direct admissions program established by Senate Bill 1552 informs Oregon high school students which public colleges and universities match their credentials to encourage enrollment. "House Bill 2421A makes one change to the program. It allows private non profit colleges to opt in to participating in the program," Frederick said on the Senate floor, adding that the change increases options available to students and recognizes the role those colleges play across the state.

Frederick emphasized that the program still requires students to follow up with colleges to complete admissions steps and that the letter is intended as a nudge for students who might not otherwise consider postsecondary study. He said the bill passed the House and the Senate committee on unanimous votes and urged colleagues to support expanding educational opportunities.

The clerk recorded the roll call; the bill was declared passed after receiving a constitutional majority. The change allows participating private nonprofit colleges to receive the direct-admission communications system and does not mandate participation by any individual institution.

The action is intended to broaden the range of institutions that can proactively notify eligible students about postsecondary options in Oregon.