Lumina Foundation commits $3.5M to streamline college admissions and expand student access

The Lumina Foundation in Indianapolis, Indiana, has announced more than $3.5M in coordinated grants to 10 higher education systems, state agencies, and colleges across multiple states to overhaul the college admissions process. Recipients—including systems in Georgia, North Carolina, Hawaii, and Florida—will use the funding for implementation and planning to integrate admissions, financial aid, and advising into streamlined, student-centered pathways. Part of the Great Admissions Redesign initiative, the grants are not endowments but targeted investments aimed at scaling direct admissions and reducing systemic barriers. The effort reflects a national push to boost credential attainment and make college access more efficient, equitable, and aligned with workforce needs.