A network of college access organizations

The Ohio College Access Network (OCAN) supports 35 programs across the state that help Ohioans go to college. The first such network in the nation, OCAN provides technical assistance, professional development and grants for community-based college access programs that serve nearly 205 of Ohio's 612 school districts.

These local programs touch 173,000 students annually by providing guidance about the college application process, scholarships, tutoring and other keys to successfully move into higher education.

Founded in 1999 by KnowledgeWorks Foundation, in collaboration with the Ohio Department of Education and the Ohio Board of Regents, OCAN is based on the ideal that "Ohio can go to college." As a fellow KnowledgeWorks initiative, Ohio Education Matters provides advocacy and research that supports OCAN's goals.

College access and you

Sharing tips on college admissions

The online discussion board Admissions 101 from the Washington Post lets people "trade tips on winning the college admissions game."

Measuring college readiness

Colorado education officials are introducing a new era in student academic data with a rollout of the Colorado Growth Model. Rather than just examining static scores from the state's assessment program, the model will look at how much students learn every year and show how much improvement is needed for each student to be ready for college.

Finding someone who can help

The Ohio College Access Network's Access Ohio Map connects people who want to go to college with people who can help them get there.